The Ministry of Environment has instructed the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) to take immediate steps to halt all construction activities on Ambuluwawa Mountain until a final decision is reached on potential risk factors, following the submission of a formal report by subject experts.
In a statement issued by the Ministry, it was revealed that a proposal has also been made to appoint an expert committee under the Ministry of Environment to investigate issues surrounding the management of the Ambuluwawa Ecological Zone. The committee will focus on assessing environmental risks and identifying problems linked to ongoing development activities in the area.
Meanwhile, acting on the instructions of the Ministry of Environment, officers of the Central Environmental Authority are expected to conduct a field visit to the Ambuluwawa area in the near future. Journalists involved in environmental reporting and social activists will also participate in the visit, enabling direct observation of the ecological conditions and current developments within the zone.
Ambuluwawa, located in the Kandy District, is a prominent and scenic mountain peak that is clearly visible to visitors entering Gampola city. The Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex built on the mountain has become a major attraction for both local and foreign tourists.
The main entrance to Ambuluwawa is situated approximately five kilometres along the Gampola–Hemmathagama road. From there, visitors travel nearly two kilometres uphill to reach the summit, where the Ambuluwawa Temple is located.
Spanning an area of about 927 acres, Ambuluwawa is recognized as a rich ecological zone with high biodiversity, supporting a wide variety of plant and animal species. A key landmark of the site is the Ambuluwawa Seya, a stupa designed in the shape of a rice paddy, rising to a height of approximately 400 feet at the mountain’s peak.
Climbing the Seya is considered a thrilling experience and remains one of the most popular activities among visitors, further contributing to the site’s appeal as a major eco-tourism destination.
