Hummanaya Blowhole, Sri Lanka: A Fascinating Natural Wonder
Located near the village of Kudawella in southern Sri Lanka, Hummanaya Blowhole is one of the most intriguing natural attractions in the country. As the second-largest blowhole in the world and the only one in Sri Lanka, it draws visitors eager to witness the spectacular power of nature.
What Makes It Special
Hummanaya gets its name from the Sinhala word "Hummanawa," meaning the sound of gushing water. This blowhole is a result of seawater being forced through a narrow crevice in a rock formation, creating a high-pressure water spout that can shoot up to 30 meters into the air, depending on the tides and sea conditions.
Visitor Experience
The Blowhole: Watching the water erupt with a thunderous sound is mesmerizing. The anticipation of each burst, accompanied by the crowd's excitement, adds to the thrill.
Scenic Views: The surrounding coastline is stunning, with rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and picturesque fishing villages. It’s an excellent spot for photography.
Local Flavor: Vendors near the site sell fresh fruits, local snacks, and handicrafts, offering a taste of Sri Lankan culture.
Best Time to Visit
The blowhole is most active during the southwest monsoon (May to September) when the sea is rough. Visiting in the morning or early afternoon ensures good lighting for photos and less crowded conditions.
Accessibility
Reaching Hummanaya requires a short walk from the parking area. The path is easy to navigate, with steps and a well-maintained trail leading to the viewpoint. Entry fees are minimal, and the local guides are friendly and informative.
Tips for Visitors
Timing: Plan your visit during high tide for the most dramatic water spouts.
Safety: Stay behind the designated barriers as the area can be slippery, and the waves are powerful.
Comfort: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as it can get hot during the day.
Overall Impression
Hummanaya Blowhole is a captivating natural phenomenon that showcases the raw beauty of Sri Lanka’s southern coast. The combination of the blowhole's unique spectacle, the scenic surroundings, and the cultural charm makes it a must-visit destination. Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or just looking for a unique experience, Hummanaya promises to leave you in awe.
Highly recommended for families, solo travelers, and anyone exploring the southern region...
Read moreHummanaya Blowhole, Matara, Sri Lanka
The Hummanaya Blowhole is a fascinating natural wonder and a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Sri Lanka. As the only known blowhole in the country and the second-largest in the world, it offers a unique spectacle where seawater erupts dramatically from a coastal rock formation, reaching heights of up to 25–30 meters (82–98 feet).
Highlights Spectacular Natural Phenomenon – The blowhole’s powerful water spout, accompanied by a distinct "hoo" sound, is mesmerizing to witness. The force and height of the spray depend on wave intensity, making each eruption unpredictable and exciting.
Scenic & Remote Location – Situated near the quiet fishing village of Kudawella, the blowhole provides a peaceful, less touristy experience compared to other Sri Lankan attractions. The surrounding coastal views add to its charm.
Accessibility – Located just 1.1 km from Kudawella, it’s easily reachable from popular southern destinations like Dikwella (5 km), Tangalle (12 km), and Matara (28 km).
Considerations: Timing Matters – The blowhole is most active during rough seas or high tides, so visitors should check conditions beforehand for the best experience. Calm days may result in weaker sprays.
Ticket Price Locals LKR 50 (NIC Verification) Foreigners LKR 500
Final Verdict: Hummanaya Blowhole is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka’s southern coast, offering a rare and thrilling natural display. While it may not have commercialized tourist infrastructure, its raw beauty and uniqueness make it well worth the visit.
A must-see for nature enthusiasts, but plan accordingly for...
Read moreHummanaya Blowhole is the only known blowhole in Sri Lanka and it is considered to be the second largest blowhole in the world.[1] Hummanaya (Sinhala: හුම්මානය = හූ+මානය) refers to the noise, "hoo", that can be heard a distance away when the blowhole is active. Hummanaya is a natural blowhole, and caused when sea water rushes through a submerged cavern and is pushed upwards. The sea water flows underneath the shore, and then comes out of this hole due to pressure. The water fountain created by the geological feature shoots up every couple of minutes, depending on the nature of the sea, with the spray often reaching as high as 25 m (82 ft) to 30 m (98 ft). The Hummanaya Blowhole is located 1.1 kilometres (0.7 mi) from the small fishing village of Kudawella, which is 28 km (17 mi) from Matara, 5 km (3.1 mi) from Dikwella and 12 km (7.5 mi) from Tangalle, in the Southern Province. This is the result of sea water rushing in through a submerged cave under the sea and as the pressure builds up, sounds similar to rumble of distant thunder can be heard, and as the pressure is released the water spews breathtakingly into the air.Visitors can be ferried by boat to the location of the Blow Hole to witness this spectacular sight, up close and personal. Along the coast, souvenir shops offering a variety of local handicrafts stand side by side with roadside kiosks selling fruit and drinks, including tasty bites of fried fish. Both Sri Lankans and tourists should veer off the beaten track and travel to Kudawella and see this phenomenal natural fountain and not miss out on an experience...
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