Discover the Enigmatic Sunken Town of Maskeliya
Explore the fascinating Sunken Town of Maskeliya, where history meets breathtaking natural beauty in Sri Lanka's hidden gem.
The Sunken Town of Maskeliya, an intriguing historical landmark submerged in time, offers tourists a captivating glimpse into a once-thriving community. This unique destination invites visitors to explore its rich history and stunning natural surroundings, making it a must-visit for any traveler seeking to uncover hidden treasures.
A brief summary to Sunken Town of Maskeliya (Old Maskeliya Town)
- Norton - Maskeliya Rd, Maskeliya, LK
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and the remnants of the town submerged in the reservoir.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking around the area to fully enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Engage with local guides to gain deeper insights into the history and stories of Old Maskeliya Town.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, taking in the serene atmosphere of this unique location.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Nuwara Eliya, start at the Nuwara Eliya Post Office. Head southwest on Post Office Rd toward Bank Rd. Continue straight onto the A5 road (also known as Haddon Hill Rd) and walk for about 1 km until you reach the junction with the Norton - Maskeliya Rd. At this junction, turn left onto Norton - Maskeliya Rd. Continue along this road for approximately 10 km. You will pass through beautiful tea plantations and local villages. Keep an eye out for signs indicating Maskeliya. Once you reach Maskeliya, look for the remnants of the Old Maskeliya Town along the road, which is submerged. The site is accessible from the road and offers a unique glimpse into the historical landscape.
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Bus
From the Nuwara Eliya Bus Station, catch a bus heading to Maskeliya. The buses are frequent and will take approximately 30-45 minutes to reach Maskeliya, depending on traffic. Inform the conductor that you are going to Maskeliya so they can alert you when you arrive. Once you arrive in Maskeliya, disembark at the main bus stop and walk along Norton - Maskeliya Rd for about 1 km. Look for signs indicating the direction towards the Old Maskeliya Town, which is submerged under the water at the base of the mountains.
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Tuk-Tuk
Tuk-tuks are readily available in Nuwara Eliya. You can hire one from any major point in the city, such as the Post Office or the Bus Station. Tell the driver that you want to go to Maskeliya. The ride will take about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Once you arrive in Maskeliya, you can ask the driver to take you to the Sunken Town location, where you can see the remnants of the old town submerged in the water.
Discover more about Sunken Town of Maskeliya (Old Maskeliya Town)
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Unmissable attractions to see
Old Maskeliya Ruins
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Seven Virgins View Point
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Maskeliya Hanafi Indonesian Memoriel Mosque
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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