Ampara district is known among its regional experts to be the water-rich district that has a vast number of man-made water bodies and adjacent greens. These mind-blowing tanks were built throughout Sri Lankan engineering history which has been influenced by our ancient kings and colonial leaders. Most of these tanks have been renovated recently by the Department of irrigation in order to cater to the farmer's needs around the vicinity. However, these tanks are becoming weekend getaway hotspots for Sri Lankans who travel around the country.
Paintharu
Paintharu, having a mind-blowing scenic view of a slow flow of water, this tank is visited by many locals throughout the weekends for having a chill water bath and to relax in the banks. This calm environment is enjoyed by locals mostly to have a slow bike ride and a barbecue lunch. The green surrounding fabricated by the paddy fields that lies as a green carpet catered by this tank adds more value to the enchanting nature at this destination.
Rufus kulam
An excellent camping site that has an astonishing view of sunset to be served for its visitors. This is rather known to be a hidden destination that is visited by loads of local tourists owing its distance from the town as well as lack of other facilities for tourists such as accommodation and food. The key significance of this pond is its calmness, with several scattered rocks and mini islets and small streams outlined by beautiful grasslands. While traveling, do keep in mind that this area has a threat of wildlife encounters since its located near a jungle area.
Kanchikudicharu
One of the irrigation tanks with a mind-blowing green view in Ampara district. Ampara district is well known for its abundance of irrigation tanks that provide water for its lavish green paddy fields. These undulating land topography makes this area suitable for a mini trekking experience for travel enthusiasts. However, these tanks are widely used by local tourists rather than international tourists since these areas are having very minimal facilities including the conditions of the roads, food, and accommodation facilities.
Komari lagoon and bridge
Komari lagoon is known to be one of the rich lagoon ecosystems in Ampara district. Lagoons are brackish water bodies that takes waters from the interior streams towards the sea. Owing to this, caused its brackish salinity. Komari lagoon is well known to its canoeing experience along the lagoon through mangrove patches and the beautiful view of the lagoon from Komari bridge. This mangrove and lagoon ecosystem is known to be destroyed by Tsunami disaster and have been reconstructed and nourished by various authorities.
Pannalgama reservoir
Pannalgama is an ancient reservoir in the Ampara district.There are two more ponds in Pannalgama. This tank is much used for food fishing. Considering the eco sustainability, no motorboats are used. However, fishing canoes are used to catch several species of freshwater fish that are caught in huge sizes, mostly Tilapia species. This place is mostly visited by fishmongers and public who buy freshwater fish which is one of the major protein sources of Sri Lankans.
Senanayake Samudra
Senanayake samudra is known to be the largest man-made reservoir in Srilanka situated in Gal Oya National Park in Ampara district. The mountain ranges far beyond the reservoir enhance the panoramic view that captures your attention. The road leading to the reservoir goes through the Galoya forest reserve in which the wild elephants frequently roam. This is an ideal place for relaxation that is known among travellers for boat trips and elephant sighting, as an add on, you can also see crocodiles and a very calm bird island. Senanayake Samudra reservoir is an important fishery catchment and a valuable source of water for irrigation.
Maduru oya
Maduru oya is one of the major streams established in Ampara district. This gives an iconic view of the ancient earthen dam and sluice built there. Beside this stream stands a majestic buddha statue that brings in more peace to anyone that visits this place. In the closer vicinity, there is a perfect camping site where wild elephants, sloth bears, peacocks are frequently sited. However, unlike other reservoirs, this is not used by its visitors for bathing, due to its depth and the presence of crocs.
