Ambuluwawa

Ambuluwawa's white tower stands on a hill near Gampola. From the grounds, you can look across mountains, villages and farmland. The tower is the main attraction, but you do not have to reach the very top to enjoy the setting.

A staircase winds around the outside of the tower and gets narrower as you climb. Passing other visitors can take patience, especially on the upper sections. The views change as you turn around the tower, with a different part of the countryside appearing each time.

The tower photo shows how the outside staircase wraps around the building. From a distance it is easy to see the shape, while the closer photos give a better idea of the exposed stairs and railings. Think about how comfortable you feel with heights before deciding how far to climb.

You can stop at a lower viewpoint and still look across a large stretch of green countryside. Keep bags small and your hands free on the stairs. When people are coming the other way, wait somewhere with enough room instead of trying to squeeze past on a narrow section.

This climb can feel uncomfortable if you dislike heights. Stop at a level where you feel at ease, or enjoy the lower grounds instead. Wear shoes with a good grip and be especially careful if the steps are wet.