Hummanaya Blow Hole

Hummanaya: The Thunderous Breath of the Ocean

Hummanaya is a remarkable geological wonder located near the small fishing village of Kudawella. Derived from the 'Hoo' sound it makes before erupting, it is the only known blowhole in Sri Lanka and is widely considered the second largest in the world. It is a powerful display of the Indian Ocean's raw energy, where the sea force is funneled through a natural fissure in the rocky coastline.

The Mechanics of Nature

The blowhole is formed by a narrow, vertical chimney-like structure in the rock that connects to a sea cave below. When large waves crash into the cave, the water is compressed and forced upward through the chimney at high pressure, resulting in a spectacular fountain of seawater that can shoot up to 30 meters into the air during the monsoon season.

A Coastal Spectacle

The site is situated on a high rocky cliff, offering a safe but dramatic vantage point to watch the eruptions. The 'waiting' for the next big burst adds a sense of excitement to the visit. The air is often filled with a fine salty mist, and the sound of the 'thunder' preceding the eruption is felt by visitors long before they see the water. The surrounding coastline is equally beautiful, with rugged rocks and panoramic views of the deep blue sea.

Local Folklore and Life

The walk to the blowhole takes you through a vibrant local community, with small stalls selling unique souvenirs like seashells and traditional snacks like 'ambul thiyal' dried fish. There is also a small Information Center and Museum at the site that explains the science behind the blowhole and showcases local maritime history.

Coastal Wonders with HBS Tours

We make your visit to Hummanaya a highlight of your trip:

• Guided Geological Briefings: Explaining the unique rock formations and the physics of how the blowhole works.
• Seashell Heritage Walks: Exploring the local shops to learn about the various sea creatures found along this coast.
• Kudawella Village Tours: A walking tour through the fishing village to see the colorful boats and the daily life of the coastal community.

Travel Logistics: Eruption Timings

Hummanaya is best visited during the Southwest monsoon season (June to September) when the sea is rough and the eruptions are most frequent and highest. However, it can be seen year-round. There is a moderate uphill walk from the parking area to the blowhole, so comfortable walking shoes are advised. The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.