Idalgashinna camping site fast becoming popular tourist destination

The area around the Idalgashinna railway station on the upcountry line is fast becoming an attraction among local and foreign tourists due to its scenic beauty.

In spite of windy conditions and other climatic conditions it is turning into a popular camping site.

On a clear day one can get a panoramic view of the Hambantota sea, Kataragama, Tissamaharama areas, t he l i ghthouse i n Dondra, Samanalawewa in Ratnapura district, Udawalawe tank and Haggala gardens.

Welimada Divisional Secretary Chaminda Weerasinghe said the Tourism Ministry together with the Tourism Development Authority is taking steps to promote the camping site that is located about 45 minutes away from the Idalgashinna railway station. the scenic route to the site is through winding paths amidst pinus trees and tea plantations.

The location can be accessed through Thangamale tea estate off the Haputale- Welimada road via Bowawatta-Idalgashinna road. It can also be approached from the Kirinda junction across Maligatenna off the Welimada-Haputale road.