What Makes Gampaha Special? Top Reasons to Visit

Gampaha is known for its Buddhist temples, local culture, and easy access from Colombo, making it a convenient destination for a short cultural getaway.

Here are some of the key highlights that make Gampaha worth visiting:

Henarathgoda Botanical Garden
One of the most iconic landmarks, known for its historical connection to the early rubber plantations introduced in Sri Lanka in the 19th century. It's a 17-hectare garden bordered by the Attanagalu Oya river.

Ayurveda (Traditional Medicine)
One of the most reputed institutions of traditional medicine in Sri Lanka is the Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute, established in 1929. Practitioners trained here are widely recognized across Sri Lanka for their expertise in traditional medicine.

Highest Literacy Rate in Sri Lanka
Gampaha is known for its strong education system and relatively high literacy levels compared to many regions.

Agriculture
The area is known for rubber and paddy cultivation, along with pineapple plantations and betel farming. During the Dutch colonial period, it was a major cinnamon collection centre.

Ancient Buddhist Temples
Notable temples include Maligathenna Rajamaha Vihara and Asgiriya Rajamaha Vihara, both dating back to the era of King Valagamba. According to local accounts, the site is believed to have once sheltered the sacred tooth relic.

Negombo & Natural Attractions
The district includes Negombo beach, Muthurajawela wetlands, Horagolla National Park, and the Hamilton Canal.

Colonial History
The region played an important role during the Portuguese colonial period and later became a key cinnamon trading area under Dutch rule. Henarathgoda railway station (1866) played a key role in the development of the town.

Located about 27 km from Colombo, Gampaha brings together natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and local traditions in one accessible destination.

HOW CAN WE HELP?

All information entered on this form will be kept strictly confidential and subject to our privacy policy once received by us. Your transaction will be secured using SSL/TLS encryption.