Matale Travel Guide

Matale Travel Guide

Matale is a charming town located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. It sits in the heart of the island's spice-growing region and offers visitors an authentic experience of Sri Lankan agriculture, traditional crafts, and Buddhist heritage. Matale is also a gateway to many significant historical and natural attractions, including ancient temples, spice gardens, and scenic hills.

Getting There

By Air: The nearest international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, about 125 km from Matale. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or private transport to Matale.

By Train: Matale is connected by rail to Kandy and Colombo. Trains run regularly between these cities, offering scenic views of the central highlands.

By Bus: Several buses operate between Colombo, Kandy, and Matale. From Kandy, it's a short 25 km drive, making Matale easily accessible by public transport or private vehicles.

Accommodation

Matale offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets:

• Luxury: Amaya Hunas Falls Resort and The Grand Mountain Hotel offer luxury stays with scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests.
• Mid-Range: Some comfortable and affordable options include Riverston Bungalow and Ella Green Cottages, providing cozy stays with modern amenities.
• Budget: Several guesthouses and budget hotels, such as Sir Johns Bungalow and Lakegala Resort, offer basic accommodations at affordable rates.

Attractions

1. Aluvihara Rock Temple

• Description: A historic Buddhist cave temple, Aluvihara is famous for being the site where Buddhist scriptures were first written down on palm leaves. The temple features ancient murals and statues of the Buddha.
• Distance from Matale Town: 3 km
• Highlights: The caves with intricate Buddhist murals, sacred palm leaf manuscripts, and stunning views of the surrounding hills.

2. Sembuwatta Lake

• Description: A scenic artificial lake located amidst tea plantations, Sembuwatta Lake is a tranquil spot ideal for picnics and nature walks.
• Distance from Matale Town: 25 km
• Highlights: Stunning views of the misty mountains, boat rides on the lake, and a chance to relax in a peaceful natural setting.

3. Knuckles Mountain Range

• Description: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Knuckles Mountain Range is a biodiversity hotspot and a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The range offers a variety of trekking routes that pass through forests, waterfalls, and traditional villages.
• Distance from Matale Town: 35 km
• Highlights: Hiking, birdwatching, and exploring remote villages in the mountains.

4. Riverston

• Description: Riverston is a lesser-known hill station located near Matale, famous for its panoramic views of the Knuckles Mountain Range. It is a popular spot for trekking, with a trail leading to the "Mini World's End" viewpoint.
• Distance from Matale Town: 30 km
• Highlights: The breathtaking views from the Riverston peak, cool climate, and trekking adventures.

5. Nalanda Gedige

• Description: Nalanda Gedige is an ancient stone temple believed to have been built between the 8th and 10th centuries. The temple is unique in its combination of Hindu and Buddhist architectural elements.
• Distance from Matale Town: 15 km
• Highlights: The fusion of Hindu and Buddhist architectural styles and the temple’s serene atmosphere.

6. Matale Spice Gardens

• Description: Matale is known for its spice plantations, and visiting a spice garden offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s spice production. You can learn about various spices like cinnamon, pepper, and cardamom, and see how they are grown and processed.
• Distance from Matale Town: Scattered around Matale (several options within a few kilometers)
• Highlights: Guided tours through spice gardens, opportunities to buy fresh spices, and demonstrations of traditional spice usage.

7. Wasgamuwa National Park

• Description: A lesser-known wildlife sanctuary, Wasgamuwa National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and many bird species. It's a great option for those looking for a more serene safari experience.
• Distance from Matale Town: 60 km
• Highlights: Wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and nature photography.

Activities

• Trekking and Hiking: Matale is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, offering numerous trekking routes, including those in the Knuckles Mountain Range and Riverston. These hikes range from moderate to challenging.
• Spice Garden Tours: Visit spice gardens to learn about the cultivation and uses of Sri Lankan spices, a great way to discover the island's rich agricultural heritage.
• Waterfalls Exploration: There are many waterfalls in the region, such as Pitawala Pathana Falls and Bambarakiri Ella, perfect for nature lovers looking to relax by the water.
• Cultural Visits: Experience the rich Buddhist heritage at the Aluvihara Rock Temple and the unique history at Nalanda Gedige.

Dining

Matale offers a variety of dining options, primarily focusing on traditional Sri Lankan cuisine:

• Local Restaurants: Taste authentic Sri Lankan food such as rice and curry, hoppers, string hoppers, and kottu at local eateries. Restaurants like Matale Heritage and Nalanda Restaurant offer local fare.
• Hotel Dining: Many hotels have in-house restaurants serving both local and international cuisines. These venues often provide a more upscale dining experience.

Shopping

• Spices: Matale is one of Sri Lanka’s key spice-growing regions, so spice shopping is a must. You can buy fresh cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and vanilla in the local markets or directly from spice gardens.
• Handicrafts: The town is known for traditional crafts, including batik textiles and wood carvings, which can be purchased in local shops.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Matale is from May to September when the weather is relatively dry and cooler, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.
• Dress Code: When visiting temples and religious sites, make sure to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
• Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). While credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller shops and local markets.
• Language: Sinhala and Tamil are the primary languages spoken, but English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Matale is a fantastic destination for travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience, scenic landscapes, and a mix of history and outdoor adventure.