Have you ever dreamed of escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and finding a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy nature? If you are in Colombo, Sri Lanka, you don't have to look far. Just a few kilometers away from the city center, there is a hidden gem that will make you feel like you are in a different world. It is called Diyatha Uyana, which means "water garden" in Sinhala.
Diyatha Uyana is a public park that was built in 2012 on the banks of the Diyawanna Oya lake. It covers an area of about 60 acres and features a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you are looking for a romantic date, a family outing, a cultural experience, or a shopping spree, you will find something to suit your taste in this park.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Diyatha Uyana, including how to get there, what to do and see, where to eat and stay, and more. We will also share some tips and recommendations from experts and locals on how to make the most of your visit. By the end of this article, you will be ready to plan your trip to this green oasis in the heart of Colombo.
How to Get to Diyatha Uyana
Getting to Diyatha Uyana is easy and convenient, as it is located in a prime location near the Parliament of Sri Lanka and the Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte city. You can choose from different modes of transportation, depending on your budget, time, and preference. Here are some of the options you can consider:
Bus
Taking the bus is one of the cheapest and most popular ways to reach the park. There are several bus routes that pass by the park, such as 177, 190, 255, and 993. You can catch these buses from various parts of the city, such as Fort, Pettah, Nugegoda, Battaramulla, and Kaduwela. The bus fare ranges from LKR 20 to LKR 50 depending on the distance. The bus stop is right in front of the park entrance, so you don't have to walk much.
Train
Taking the train is another affordable and comfortable way to get to the park. You can take the Kelani Valley Line train from Maradana or Fort railway stations and get off at Battaramulla station. The train fare is LKR 30 for a second-class ticket and LKR 50 for a first-class ticket. The train journey takes about 30 minutes. From the station, you can take a tuk-tuk or a taxi to the park, which will cost you around LKR 200 to LKR 300. The ride will take about 10 minutes.
Taxi
Taking a taxi is the most convenient and fastest way to reach the park, but also the most expensive. You can book a taxi from any part of the city using online platforms such as Uber, PickMe, or Kangaroo Cabs. The taxi fare varies depending on the traffic, time, and distance, but you can expect to pay around LKR 1000 to LKR 1500 for a one-way trip. The taxi ride will take about 20 to 40 minutes depending on the traffic.
What to Do and See in Diyatha Uyana
Diyatha Uyana is a park that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, a thrill seeker, or a shopaholic, you will find plenty of things to do and see in this park. Here are some of the attractions and activities that you can enjoy in Diyatha Uyana:
Flower Market
One of the main attractions of the park is the flower market, which is open every day from 8 am to 8 pm. Here, you can find a wide range of flowers, plants, seeds, pots, and gardening tools for sale. You can also admire the colorful and fragrant displays of flowers, such as orchids, roses, lilies, carnations, and more. The flower market is a great place to buy some souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones, or to treat yourself to some fresh and beautiful flowers.
Aquarium
Another attraction of the park is the aquarium, which is open every day from 9 am to 6 pm. Here, you can see a variety of fish and aquatic animals, such as goldfish, koi, guppies, sharks, turtles, and more. You can also learn about the different species and their habitats, as well as the importance of conserving the aquatic environment. The aquarium is a fun and educational place for kids and adults alike, and the entrance fee is only LKR 100 per person.
Boat Rides
If you are looking for some adventure and excitement, you can try the boat rides in the park. You can choose from different types of boats, such as paddle boats, rowing boats, speed boats, and jet skis. You can also rent a boat for a private or a group ride, and enjoy the scenic views of the lake and the park. The boat rides are available every day from 9 am to 6 pm, and the prices range from LKR 200 to LKR 1000 depending on the type and duration of the ride.
Musical Fountain
One of the highlights of the park is the musical fountain, which is a spectacular show of water, lights, and music. The musical fountain is located in the center of the park, and it operates every day from 7 pm to 8 pm. The show features different themes and songs, such as classical, pop, rock, and patriotic. The musical fountain is a mesmerizing and entertaining spectacle that you don't want to miss.
Cycling Track
If you are looking for some exercise and fresh air, you can try the cycling track in the park. You can rent a bicycle from the park entrance for LKR 100 per hour, and explore the park on two wheels. The cycling track is about 3 km long, and it goes around the lake and the park. You can enjoy the greenery and the breeze, as well as the sights and sounds of the park. The cycling track is open every day from 6 am to 8 pm.
Playground
If you are visiting the park with your kids, you can take them to the playground, which is located near the park entrance. The playground has a variety of equipment and games for kids, such as swings, slides, seesaws, merry-go-rounds, and more. The playground is a safe and fun place for kids to play and make friends, and it is open every day from 8 am to 8 pm.
Where to Eat and Stay Near Diyatha Uyana
Diyatha Uyana is not only a park, but also a food and accommodation hub. You can find a number of options to eat and stay near the park, depending on your budget, taste, and preference. Here are some of the options you can consider:
Restaurants and Cafes
If you are feeling hungry or thirsty, you can visit one of the many restaurants and cafes in the park. You can find a variety of cuisines and dishes, such as Sri Lankan, Chinese, Indian, Western, and more. You can also find a range of beverages and desserts, such as coffee, tea, juice, ice cream, and more. Some of the popular restaurants and cafes in the park are Waters Edge, Baker's Hut, The Sandwich Factory, and The Tea Lounge. The prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly.
Hotels and Guesthouses
If you are looking for a place to stay near the park, you can choose from a number of hotels and guesthouses in the vicinity. You can find a range of options, from luxury to budget, and from modern to traditional. You can also enjoy the amenities and facilities, such as swimming pools, spas, gyms, and more. Some of the popular hotels and guesthouses near the park are The Waterside, The Lake House, The Park View, and The Green Garden. The prices vary depending on the season and the availability, but you can expect to pay around LKR 5000 to LKR 15000 per night.
Conclusion
Diyatha Uyana is a park that has something for everyone. It is a place where you can relax, enjoy, learn, and have fun. It is a place where you can experience the beauty, diversity, and culture of Sri Lanka. It is a place where you can create memories that will last a lifetime.
If you are planning to visit Colombo, don't miss the chance to visit Diyatha Uyana. You will not regret it. And if you need any help
