a Land like no other
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Nestled in the tranquil hills of Sri Lanka’s Central Province, Digana is a hidden gem that offers visitors a mix of stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and relaxing escapes. Located near the renowned city of Kandy, Digana is surrounded by lush forests, picturesque lakes, and rich cultural landmarks. For travelers looking for a peaceful retreat away from the busier tourist hubs, Digana provides a perfect destination where the beauty of Sri Lanka’s natural landscape merges with historical and recreational experiences.
Digana is located approximately 20 kilometers (12.5 miles) east of Kandy, making it an easy 30 to 40-minute drive from the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. The route from Kandy to Digana is scenic, with the road winding through lush countryside, paddy fields, and small villages. If you’re traveling from Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, Digana is roughly 130 kilometers (81 miles) away. The drive from Colombo takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and the mode of transport. The Colombo-Kandy highway offers a comfortable and scenic journey, and once you reach Kandy, Digana is just a short drive away.
For those who prefer a more immersive experience, the train ride from Colombo to Kandy is one of the most scenic routes in the country. From Kandy, you can take a bus or tuk-tuk to reach Digana, enjoying the fresh air and greenery along the way.
Situated at an altitude of approximately 600 meters (1,968 feet) above sea level, Digana enjoys a cool and pleasant climate throughout the year. This moderate elevation makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to escape the tropical heat of Sri Lanka’s lowlands. The temperature in Digana typically ranges from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), with cool mornings and evenings providing a refreshing contrast to the warm afternoons.
Digana is part of the Central Province’s Kundasale region, which is famous for its natural beauty and agricultural landscapes. The town is located near the Victoria Reservoir, a man-made lake that serves as one of the main water sources for the region. The reservoir, surrounded by hills and forests, adds to the scenic charm of Digana and provides opportunities for water sports and relaxation. The Mahaweli River, Sri Lanka’s longest river, also flows nearby, further enhancing the town’s natural appeal.
While Digana is a peaceful and relatively quiet town, it is surrounded by a range of attractions that offer visitors the opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s culture, history, and natural beauty at a ground level. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife, or learning about traditional crafts, Digana has something for everyone.
One of the main attractions in Digana is the Victoria Golf and Country Resort, a world-class golf course set amidst stunning natural scenery. The 18-hole championship golf course is considered one of the best in Asia and attracts both local and international golf enthusiasts. Even if you’re not a golfer, the resort is worth a visit for its beautiful surroundings. The golf course is nestled between rolling hills and offers spectacular views of the Victoria Reservoir and the surrounding landscape.
The resort also offers other recreational activities such as horse riding, tennis, and nature walks. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the well-maintained trails, which wind through forests and offer breathtaking views of the reservoir. The resort is also home to a range of luxury accommodations, making it a popular spot for travelers seeking a peaceful and upscale retreat.
The Victoria Reservoir is one of the most significant engineering projects in Sri Lanka and serves as a crucial water source for the country’s irrigation and hydropower needs. The reservoir was created by damming the Mahaweli River, and its vast expanse of water is surrounded by lush forests and hills. Visitors to Digana can explore the Victoria Dam, which is an impressive structure and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Boating and fishing are popular activities on the reservoir, and several operators offer boat tours that allow visitors to explore the lake and its islands. The calm waters and scenic backdrop make this a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. A trip to the reservoir is also a great way to experience the region’s rich biodiversity, as the surrounding forests are home to a variety of bird species and wildlife.
The Knuckles Mountain Range, located just a short distance from Digana, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The range gets its name from the distinctive shape of its peaks, which resemble the knuckles of a clenched fist. This mountain range is home to a diverse ecosystem, including montane forests, grasslands, and waterfalls, making it one of the most biodiverse areas in Sri Lanka.
Hiking in the Knuckles Range is one of the best ground-level experiences for visitors to Digana. There are several trails that vary in difficulty, from easy walks through tea plantations to challenging treks that lead to the peaks. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the valleys, rivers, and forests, and may even spot wildlife such as monkeys, deer, and various bird species. The Knuckles Range is also known for its remote villages, where travelers can experience traditional Sri Lankan rural life and enjoy warm hospitality.
Just a 30-minute drive from Digana, the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka. This UNESCO World Heritage site houses a relic of the Buddha’s tooth and is a must-visit for anyone staying in Digana. The temple complex is located by the Kandy Lake and is an architectural marvel, with its golden roof and intricate carvings.
Visitors can explore the temple grounds, witness daily rituals, and learn about the history and significance of the tooth relic. The temple is especially vibrant during the Esala Perahera, an annual festival that takes place in July or August, where the tooth relic is paraded through the streets of Kandy in a grand procession.
For those interested in learning about Sri Lankan culture, a visit to the Digana Village offers an authentic experience of local life. The village is known for its traditional crafts, particularly pottery and weaving. Visitors can watch local artisans at work, creating beautiful pottery pieces or weaving intricate patterns into cloth. Many of the workshops allow visitors to try their hand at these crafts, providing a hands-on cultural experience.
In addition to crafts, the village is home to several small temples and shrines, where visitors can learn about the local religious practices and traditions. Walking through the village offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of the local people, and visitors are often welcomed with warm smiles and hospitality.
To make the most of your visit to Digana, consider following this two-day itinerary, which covers the town’s main attractions and offers a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation.
Digana is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and immersive experience in Sri Lanka’s hill country. Its proximity to Kandy makes it an excellent base for exploring both the natural beauty of the Knuckles Range and the cultural landmarks of Kandy, while its own attractions—like the Victoria Reservoir and Digana Village—offer plenty of opportunities for relaxation and cultural exploration. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone looking to unwind in a beautiful setting, Digana has something to offer.
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