Sembuwatta Lake – Matale
Description
Sembuwatta Lake is a picturesque man-made reservoir located in Elkaduwa, Matale, bordered by the Cambell’s Land forest reserve. At an elevation of 1,140 meters, the lake is surrounded by tea-covered slopes and pine trees that create a tranquil atmosphere.
Read More in Details
Sembuwatta Lake is a picturesque man-made reservoir in Elkaduwa, Matale, bordered by the Cambell’s Land forest reserve. At an elevation of 1,140 meters, the lake is surrounded by tea-covered slopes and pine trees that create a tranquil atmosphere.
Apart from the breathtaking scenery, Sembuwatta Lake offers visitors a range of adventure activities such as zip-lining, swan/motorboat riding, canoeing, and hiking. While bathing and swimming in the lake are not allowed due to their depth (30-40 feet), a separate pool is available for these activities.
To get to Sembuwatta Lake, you can take the Sembuwatta Lake Road off Wattegama-Elkaduwa-Matale Road (B461). The narrow and winding road, especially beyond the factory, and stretches about 4 km from the main road to the lake. Tuk-tuk drivers may try to discourage visitors from driving to the lake, but all types of vehicles travel on this road daily. Long vehicles such as 54-seat Leyland buses/coaches should be parked near the Elakduwa Tea Factory.
Ticket prices are Rs 200 for locals and Rs 1,000 for foreigners, and the lake is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Accommodation options include the Polo Bungalow, which can accommodate 12 people and costs Rs 15,000, and the Summer Huts, which cost Rs 1,000 per person in groups of at least 10 and Rs 7,500 for groups of less than 10.
Various activities are available at Sembuwatta Lake, including zip-lining, swan/motorboat riding, canoeing, and hiking. Prices range from Rs 250 to Rs 1,500 depending on the activity and whether the participant is a child or an adult. There is also a natural pool and a kids' play area.
Visitors should bring their food and drinks as no restaurants are available. A cook and equipment are provided for overnight stays, and BBQ cookers are available for an additional fee.
