A plume of seawater shooting above the rocks, a deep rushing sound and wide views of the Indian Ocean: Hummanaya Blowhole offers something different from a day on the beach. Located in Kudawella, a short drive from Hiriketiya and Dickwella, it makes an interesting outing during a holiday on Sri Lanka’s south coast.
The visit includes a walk through a small fishing village, with steps weaving between the buildings before you reach the rocky viewpoint. For families, plenty will spark children’s curiosity, though the steps and partially barriered viewing area mean little ones need close supervision.
Here is what to know about the blowhole itself, how to get there and what to expect when visiting.
What is Hummanaya Blowhole?
Hummanaya is a natural coastal blowhole: an opening in the rock connected to a sea cave below. When waves enter the cave, pressure forces air and seawater upwards through the opening, creating a sudden jet of spray.
You may also see it called the Kudawella Blowhole, Dickwella Blowhole or “Hummanaya Blow Hole”. Its name comes from the humming, or “hoo,” sound made as air and water rush through the rock. In favourable conditions, the spray can reach around 25 metres high, although the display varies considerably with the sea.
How Does Hummanaya Blowhole work?
The visible burst of water is only the final part of a process happening beneath your feet. Coastal blowholes form where wave erosion enlarges weaknesses in rock, creating caves and passages connected to the surface. At Hummanaya, the sea cave and narrow opening work together to channel incoming seawater upwards.
As a wave enters the cave, the rising water compresses the air inside. Pressure then drives air and water through the opening above, producing the plume visitors come to see. When the wave retreats, pressure falls, and the process begins again.
This explains why the blowhole does not produce a steady fountain. Each burst depends on the incoming waves, and stronger wave action can create a more dramatic display. On a calm day, there may be only small splashes or little visible activity.
For children, a simple explanation is that the sea pushes water into a rocky chamber and squeezes it out through a much smaller hole. Watching the waves, then the spray, makes the connection easier to understand.
Is Hummanaya the world’s second-largest blowhole?
Hummanaya is widely described as the world’s second-largest blowhole and is one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable coastal attractions. When conditions are right, seawater can shoot around 25 metres into the air, accompanied by a deep rushing roar. Its exact global ranking is not scientifically confirmed, but a powerful burst is an impressive sight.
How to get to Hummanaya Blowhole
A tuk-tuk or car is the simplest way to reach Hummanaya from Hiriketiya or Dickwella. In general, allow 15-25 minutes from the Hiriketiya area, depending on your starting point and traffic. Ask for Hummanaya Blowhole in Kudawella.
If you are taking a tuk-tuk, agree on the price before leaving and ask whether the driver can wait while you visit. Arranging the return journey in advance is particularly useful with children. Vehicles stop at a parking area, and you finish on foot. You cannot drive directly to the viewing point.
Walking through the village to the blowhole
The walk is part of the experience. The route winds through the small village, past homes and local stalls, including sellers of dried fish, before leading you out to the exposed coastline.
Expect plenty of steps along the village approach, followed by uneven, rocky ground near the viewpoint. Although the distance is relatively short, the changes in level make it more demanding than a flat walk from a car park. Visitor accounts also highlight stairs and rough terrain along the route.
Allow around 10-15 minutes each way as a planning guide, with extra time for younger children, breaks and stops at the stalls. Your walking distance will depend on where you park.
Wear trainers or secure sandals with a good grip. A pushchair is impractical for this route because of the steps; a suitable baby carrier may be easier for children who cannot walk it themselves. Anyone who finds stairs difficult should consider this before visiting.
What to expect at the viewing area
Once you reach the end of the path, the view opens onto the rocky coastline and sea. Give yourself time to watch rather than expecting a large burst as soon as you arrive.
There may be several smaller splashes, a pause and then a stronger jet. If the sea is calm, however, the blowhole may do very little.
Barriers surround parts of the viewing area, but the surrounding rocky setting is not fully enclosed. Stay in the designated viewing area and avoid moving onto exposed rocks for a closer photograph.
When is the best time to visit?
Wave strength matters more than arriving at a particular hour. High tide can be favourable, but it does not guarantee a dramatic display. Ask locally about conditions before setting off, and follow any weather warnings or site restrictions.
For a more comfortable walk with children, consider a cooler part of the day. Bring water and sun protection, and avoid rushing up the steps in the heat.
Entrance fees and how long to spend
Bring cash in Sri Lankan rupees for admission and any separate parking charge. It’s approximately LKR 500 for foreign visitors, but prices can change, so confirm the current fee and any children’s charges when you arrive.
As a planning guide, set aside 45 minutes to an hour at the site. This gives you time to walk through the village, watch the blowhole and return without hurrying. Allow more time if you move slowly on the steps or stop for refreshments.
Is Hummanaya Blowhole worth visiting?
For visitors staying in Hiriketiya or Dickwella, Hummanaya is an interesting short excursion, particularly if you enjoy natural attractions. Understanding what is happening beneath the rocks adds much more to the experience than simply waiting for a splash.
The village walk and coastal setting add to the appeal, but the display itself is unpredictable. Plan it as one part of a relaxed morning or afternoon, leaving time for lunch or a return to the villa afterwards.
For families with young children, consider the number of steps and the close supervision needed at the viewpoint.
Explore Hiriketiya from The Nest Sri Lanka
One of the pleasures of staying around Hiriketiya is combining beach days with short trips to places such as Hummanaya Blowhole, without filling every day with long journeys.
The Nest Sri Lanka is a family-friendly villa near Hiriketiya Beach, with a private pool and private chef. It offers a comfortable base for exploring the surrounding coast, with space to relax together when you return.
Planning a family holiday in Sri Lanka? Explore The Nest and enquire about your preferred dates.