Lanka's blowhole- a spectacular sight

by Husna Inayathullah

Situated in a small fishing village called Kudawella near Dikwella town, a narrow, rugged footpath leads to the Hummanaya. The path leads to a rock where the water gushes out from the top. It is a marvellous place to visit.

The dashing, rising and falling of the water makes a high whistling sound. The 'hoo' sound is heard from a distance when the water gushes out and that was the reason this place was named Hummanaya.

It is exciting to look at the blasts of water from the top of the Hummanaya blowhole. It is considered the only blow hole in Sri Lanka and the second largest in the world.

There is an opening at the top of the rock. The water jets high into the sky. Then it sinks down and rolls back into the sea. It is wonderful when the entire sea echoes with the sound. The rock is long with a narrow fracture in the centre. Often the blowhole shoots water several feet above the rock.

The scenery of the water fountain is spellbinding and makes you want to stay there forever. If the sea is rough with strong winds, the waves gush faster.

The height of the water shoot is around 25 to 30 metres. When the sea is calm and quiet, it is quite different.

Hummanaya can be visited at any time of the year. When the sea is rough the water pressure is higher. This is especially so, during the monsoon which is the off season. Visitors can be ferried by boat to the location of the blowhole to witness this spectacular sight. Along the coast, souvenir shops offer a variety of local handicraft along with the roadside kiosks selling fruits and drinks, including tasty fried fish.