Bowatenna Reservoir

Bowatenna Reservoir is a major water-management project built across the Amban Ganga under the Mahaweli Development Programme. It supports irrigation, water distribution and hydroelectric power generation while offering attractive reservoir and countryside views.

Best time to visit

Early morning and late afternoon

Opening hours

approximately 8:30 AM–4:30 PM

Entry fee

free entrance

Time needed

Approximately 30–60 minutes for a short scenic visit. Allow 1–1.5 hours if spend

Highlights

• Scenic reservoir views; Bowatenna Dam and spill gates; Amban Ganga; Mahaweli Development Programme heritage; 40 MW hydroelectric power station; irrigation and water-transfer system; surrounding countryside; birdlife and natural scenery in the wider area.

Bowatenna Reservoir is located near Naula in the Matale District of Sri Lanka. It is an important multipurpose water project developed under the Mahaweli Development Programme. Construction began in March 1973, and the project was completed in March 1976. The dam was built across the Amban Ganga, a tributary of the Mahaweli River. The structure includes a concrete gravity dam with six radial spill gates and an earth embankment. The reservoir is connected to a diversion tunnel and canal system that transfers water for irrigation and supplies other reservoirs and agricultural areas in the North Central region. The Bowatenna Hydropower Station has an installed generation capacity of 40 MW. The surrounding landscape includes water views and the Weralugahakanda Forest Reserve, which is an important catchment area. The reservoir is significant for agriculture, electricity generation and water management in Sri Lanka.

Photos

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

How to get there

From Naula, travel approximately 6–7 km towards Bowatenna Reservoir. From Matale, use the Matale–Dambulla A9 road and follow the local route towards Pilihudugolla and Bowatenna. From Dambulla, travel towards Naula and follow local directions. Private vehicles and tuk-tuks are convenient options. Confirm the accessible public viewing location before travelling because some dam and power-station areas may be restricted.

Tips for visitors

Visit in the morning or late afternoon; carry drinking water and sun protection; ask local authorities about visitor access; do not enter restricted dam or power-station areas; never climb barriers or walk on spillways; avoid swimming unless explicitly permitted; be careful near water and steep edges; follow warning signs and safety instructions; do not litter; check weather and reservoir conditions before travelling.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Bowatenna Reservoir located?

Bowatenna Reservoir is located near Naula in the Matale District of Sri Lanka, close to Pilihudugolla.

When was Bowatenna Reservoir constructed?

Construction began in March 1973, and the project was completed in March 1976 under the Mahaweli Development Programme.

Which river supplies water to Bowatenna Reservoir?

The reservoir is formed by a dam across the Amban Ganga, which is a tributary of the Mahaweli River.

What is Bowatenna Reservoir famous for?

It is known for its important irrigation and water-transfer system, hydroelectric power generation and scenic reservoir landscape.

Can visitors enter the Bowatenna Dam and power station?

Access to operational dam and power-station areas may be restricted for safety and security reasons. Visitors should confirm permitted public viewing areas with the relevant authorities before travelling.