Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

We promise not to spam you!
  • How It Works
  • Get Inspired
  • Pricing
  • Blog
  • Login
Get InspiredBlogTerms and ConditionsPrivacy Policy
© 2026 TravelPal, Inc.

Navigation

  • Blog
  • Destinations
  • Contact

Follow us

Terms & ConditionsPrivacy Policy
© 2026, TravelPal, Inc. All rights reserved.
0/200
Get InspiredAsiaSri LankaCentral ProvinceGampola

Gampola

Central Province, Sri Lanka
City·Historic, Serene, Culturally Rich
Gampola
Photo by Dinesh Arumendo from Google Places
Gampola
Photo by Maduranga Hewapathirana from Google Places
Gampola
Photo by Sarath Bandara from Google Places
Gampola
Photo by Dinesh Arumendo from Google Places
Gampola
Photo by Masihudeen Anasullah from Google Places
Gampola
Photo by Dinesh Arumendo from Google Places
Gampola
Photo by Maduranga Hewapathirana from Google Places
Gampola
Photo by Sarath Bandara from Google Places
Gampola
Photo by Dinesh Arumendo from Google Places
Gampola
Photo by Masihudeen Anasullah from Google Places

Gampola, nestled in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a town rich in history and natural beauty. It served as the capital during the mid-14th century under King Buwanekabahu IV and V. The town is home to the Saliyalapura Temple, which boasts the longest sleeping Buddha statue in South Asia. Visitors can explore its lush landscapes and delve into the region's royal past, making it a perfect destination for those interested in history and nature.

Gampola, nestled in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a town rich in history and natural beauty. It served as the capital during the mid-14th century under King Buwanekabahu IV and V. The town is home to the Saliyalapura Temple, which boasts the longest sleeping Buddha statue in South Asia. Visitors can explore its lush landscapes and delve into the region's royal past, making it a perfect destination for those interested in history and nature.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Former capital of Sri Lanka during the 14th century.

  • Home to the longest sleeping Buddha statue in South Asia.

  • Scenic landscapes and lush greenery.

Before you go: Gampola essentials

  • Rich cultural heritage with historical significance.

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with opportunities for hiking and photography.

  • A peaceful town with a serene atmosphere.

Local Cuisine

Try the local Sri Lankan delicacies available in Gampola's eateries.

Transport

Public transport is available, but renting a vehicle might be more convenient for exploring the area.

Best For

History enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Currency

LKR ₨

Average Cost

$50-$100 p/day

Languages Spoken

Sinhala, Tamil, English

Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly when visiting temples and cultural sites.

Photography

The surrounding landscapes offer excellent photography opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Occasion Tags

History, Culture, Nature

Best time to visit Gampola

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring is a pleasant time to visit Gampola, with mild weather perfect for exploring.

Best Season

Summer

Summers can be warm, but the lush landscapes remain a beautiful sight.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers comfortable weather and fewer tourists, ideal for a relaxed visit.

Winter

Winters are mild, making it a good time to enjoy the cultural sites without the crowds.

Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

We promise not to spam you!

Location

Gampola, Central Province, Sri Lanka

Things to do in Gampola

Kandy Village Cooking Class
From $25

Kandy Village Cooking Class

5.0(663)
Duration: 3h
Kandy
Kandy to Ella Trip by Car with Scenic Train Ride from Ambewela
From $80

Kandy to Ella Trip by Car with Scenic Train Ride from Ambewela

5.0(2)
Duration: 6h
Kandy
Scenic Train Ride to Ella from Kandy
From $89

Scenic Train Ride to Ella from Kandy

4.1(10)
Duration: 13h
Kandy
Sri Lanka Cooking Class with Granny
From $25

Sri Lanka Cooking Class with Granny

5.0(705)
Duration: 3h 30min
Kandy
The 10 Tastings of Kandy With Locals: Private Street Food Tour
From $84

The 10 Tastings of Kandy With Locals: Private Street Food Tour

4.5(85)
Duration: 3h
Kandy
Kandy City Tour with Ambuluwawa by Tuk Tuk
From $24

Kandy City Tour with Ambuluwawa by Tuk Tuk

4.9(69)
Duration: 4h
Kandy
Day tour to Nuwareeliya (Little England) from Kandy
From $27

Day tour to Nuwareeliya (Little England) from Kandy

5.0(19)
Duration: 8 min
Kandy
Kandy Nuwara Eliya & Train tour to Ella
From $70

Kandy Nuwara Eliya & Train tour to Ella

5.0(6)
Duration: 5h
Kandy
Explore on Viator

Natural & historic sites near Gampola

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Minneriya National Park

4.5(1,7 K)
North Central Province
National Park · Wild, Scenic, Adventurous
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Horton Plains National Park

4.6(10,1 K)
Central Province
National Park · Serene, Expansive, Wild, Untouched
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Udawalawe National Park

Protected Area · Rugged, Natural, Wild, Serene
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Yala National Park

Southern Province
Protected Area · Rugged, Wild, Nature Focused
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Angammedilla National Park

North Central Province
Protected Area · Remote, Rugged, Quiet, Untouched
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Flood Plains National Park

Protected Area · Remote, Wild, Conservation Focused
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Gal Oya National Park

Protected Area · Tranquil, Remote, Nature Focused
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Galway's Land National Park

Protected Area · Tranquil, Lush, Serene, Protected