It is a lofty sanctuary perched on a mountaintop in a forgotten ancient kingdom of the island. Enveloped by extraordinary 360-degree vistas, wilderness, wildlife and quiet seclusion, W15 Ambuluwawa invites you to experience the dramatic beauty of the Central Hills like no other place. Let us take you through this imaginative property that blurs the boundaries of the sky and Earth.
Where’s Ambuluwawa?
Welcome to Gampola, an ancient Sinhala capital (1345-1408). Situated on a lush valley in the Central Province, surrounded by forested hills, with the island’s longest river (Mahaweli) flowing alongside, it stands at an elevation of 980-1640ft. It is a town steeped in history, culture and traditional agriculture and crops. Gampola is only 40 minutes away from the sacred city of Kandy.
Ambuluwawa, standing 3560m above sea level, is the only isolated mountain in the Central Hills. Wild, rugged, historic and unique, it is home to a biodiversity complex and a 14th-century Buddhist temple. Endemic species and rare plants are rife here. The nature reserve also contains a fragrant pinewood forest. All climatic conditions present on the island exist here.
However, its most distinctive feature is the Ambuluwawa Tower, which resembles something from the pages of a fantasy tale. The tower is 54.55m tall. It offers 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, forests, rivers and towns. You can spot Piduruthalagala from the East, Bible Rock (Bathalegala) from the West, Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) from the South and Knuckles Mountain Range from the North. Hanthana Mountain Range, Hunnasigiri Range, Algalla and Kadugannawa are also visible.
The forest reserve has two lakes – Ambuluwawa Wewa and Jaya Wewa, and twin ponds that add to its beauty. Ambuluwawa also contains an adventure park that integrates invigorating outdoor activities for thrill-seekers of all ages. There is a Buddhist temple, a Hindu Kovil, a mosque and a church, symbolising religious harmony.
The idyllic location of W15 Ambuluwawa
W15 Ambuluwawa is within the Ambuluwawa biodiversity complex. Designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding nature, it puts you in the heart of pristine natural wonders. The immersive setting caresses you with the sights, sounds and scents of the wilderness. Crisp mountain air, captivating sights and a sense of serenity are ever-present. Ambuluwawa Tower is only 6 minutes away, so you can frequent it as much as you like.
W15 Ambuluwawa Experience
The sky deck, infinity pool, rooftop bar and dining, floor-to-ceiling windows, and spacious interiors are only the eye-catching luxuries. Each room comes with a personal butler. Come night, the unpolluted sky unveils a canvas of stars. The two powerful telescopes offer guests celestial views without obstructions or light pollution. Go on nature walks, follow hiking trails, learn the joys of birdwatching and picnic amidst the green environs.
Sample cleverly crafted Sri Lankan and global culinary favourites. The speciality Italian cuisine is masterful. Freshly sourced from Highland farms and local producers, the ingredients amplify the flavour. It is an indulgent all-day dining experience, and alfresco takes a whole new meaning here.
Rooms with the views
The Master Suite, Deluxe Suites and Standard Rooms are stylish and contemporary. Their modern amenities offer a comfortable stay. Warm, earthy tones, plush bedding and premium bathware luxuriate the senses. The generous mountain views accessorise the rooms like paintings.
Nearby Attractions
- Ambuluwawa and the surrounding region belong to the island’s Tea Country. There are numerous plantations and factories you can visit. These include the Balumgala Tea Factory, Loolkandura Tea Estate and the Ceylon Tea Museum of Hanthana.
- Visit Lankathilaka Temple, a 14th-century architectural legacy from the Gampola kingdom. It beautifully blends Sinhala and Dravidian architecture and art.
- Embekke Devalaya is an iconic masterpiece from the Gampola Era. The temple, dedicated to the God of Kataragama, consists of intricate ornate wood construction with pillars and carvings. It is a masterpiece of ancient woodwork.
- The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is the most sacred site in the Hill Country. It houses the tooth relic of Buddha and captivates visitors with pageantry, ritual and a vibrant culture. The Royal Palace Complex is the finest example of Kandyan architecture, one of the most distinctive styles of Sinhala architecture.
- Peradeniya Botanical Gardens contains more than 4000 species of plants and is renowned for its collection of orchids. Its palm collection is one of the best in Asia. The 60 ha of land borders the Mahaweli River. It began as the king’s court in 1371 and became a garden in 1780.
Explore W15 Ambuluwawa with Blue Lanka Tours
W15 Ambuluwawa is a stunning hilltop hotel and a unique world of exceptional beauty. It is a place where luxury isn’t only material but natural and abundant. Blue Lanka Tours incorporates a variety of properties born out of visionary ingenuity in the curated itineraries. Our portfolio consists of accommodations that vary in their offerings to their dramatic locations. Book your Sri Lankan tour with us for tailormade experiences and mesmerising properties that add plenty more to your Sri Lankan stay.