Strategically placed on the primary route to the North and East of Sri Lanka, Habarana is central to tourist places within the cultural triangle. It is the ideal base to explore the key sites, being within easy reach of Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Sigiriya and Ritigala, as well as serving as a stopover for journeys to Jaffna or Trincomalee. Many elephant watching excursions to Minneriya and Kaudulla national parks also start from here.

The scenic Habarana Lake and its surrounds are also an attraction with many village tours offering an insight into rural life.