Kadadora

Kadadora is a temple in the Kotmale area, on the way from Kandy towards Nuwara Eliya. It is known as the "hiding temple". The old temple, Kadadora Pratibimbarama Viharaya, was flooded when the Kotmale reservoir was built under the Mahaweli development programme around the early 1980s.

The story

For decades, the old temple lay under water. During a drought around 2009, the water level fell and the ruins of the temple and its stupa reappeared, drawing large crowds. Since then, parts of the old site show only in dry periods. The name Kadadora recalls one of the old entrances to the Kotmale area, alongside names such as Galdora and Watadora.

What you see

A temple has been rebuilt on higher ground near the reservoir, with a stupa and shrine. When water levels are low, you may see the ruins of the original temple on the reservoir bed. At other times, you see only the water and the hills around.

How long it takes

Thirty to forty-five minutes.

When to go

The old ruins show only in long dry spells, which vary from year to year. Ask locally before making a special trip.

Getting there

Kadadora is in the Kotmale area, reached from the Kandy to Nuwara Eliya road via Pussellawa or Ramboda. A driver is the easiest option.

Practical tips

• Dress modestly and remove shoes at shrines.
• Do not walk on unstable reservoir mud.

Combine with Ramboda Falls. See things to do in Nuwara Eliya and Nuwara Eliya hotels.