Kurukohogama Ambalama in Kandy (මහනුවර කුරුකොහොගම අම්බලම)

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Located in a paddy field near Kurukohogama Rajamaha Viharaya, the Kurukohogama Ambalama sits near a natural overflowing spring tank. This square, open-sided pavilion features four corner pillars, low plastered walls for shelter and ventilation, and a Sinhala ulu tile-clad hipped roof.

Wayside rest houses built for the benefit of travelers were known as ambalams. In ancient Sri Lanka, these structures served as important stopping places where travelers could rest, seek shelter, and recover from the hardships of long journeys. They were used not only by ordinary travellers but also by kings, ministers, and other officials who journeyed throughout the country.

Access Route

Kurukohogama Ambalama is located approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from Kandy city, in the tranquil village of Kurukohogama in Medadumbara Divisional Secetariet. It stands near the Kurukohogama Rajamaha Viharaya, in the middle of a large paddy field beneath a cluster of areca nut trees.

The village can be reached from Kandy via the Digana–Teldeniya Road. From Teldeniya, take the Ranagala Road and travel approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) to Udispattuwa. From there, take the Retiyagama Road. After travelling approximately 2 kilometres (1.2 miles) along this road, the turnoff to the village of Kurukohogama can be reached. The Ambalama is situated approximately 100 meters (328 feet) before the Rajamaha Viharaya, which is also located within the same paddy field.

Approximately 100 meters (325 feet) northeast of the Ambalama, within the same paddy field, is a naturally overflowing spring. A square masonry tank approximately 0.91 meters (3 feet) high has been constructed over the spring, from which clear water continuously overflows.

Architectural Layout and Open Design

The Ambalama is an open-sided wayside pavilion constructed on a raised foundation. The building has a square plan and is supported by four square corner pillars that carry the entire roof structure. Low perimeter walls constructed of plastered brick and mortar extend between the pillars around the lower portions of the sides. These walls create a semi-enclosed resting area while leaving the upper sections open, allowing natural light and ventilation to enter the structure. An open passageway on the front side provides direct access to the shelter. The low walls are sufficiently wide to serve as seating for visitors.

The building is covered by a steeply pitched hipped roof crowned with traditional curved clay tiles known as Sinhala ulu.

Also See

Kurukohogama Ambalama in Kandy Map

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Driving Directions to Kurukohogama Ambalama in Kandy

From Kandy to Kurukohogama Ambalama

Through: Digana–Teldeniya Road
Distance: 32 km
Travel time: 1.15 hours
Time to spend: about 10 minutes
Driving Directions: See Google Maps here

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Kurukohogama Ambalama in Kandy (මහනුවර කුරුකොහොගම අම්බලම)
Located in a paddy field near Kurukohogama Rajamaha Viharaya, the Kurukohogama Ambalama sits near a natural overflowing spring tank. This square, open-sided pavilion features four corner pillars, low plastered walls for shelter and ventilation, and a Sinhala ulu tile-clad hipped roof. […]
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The Siyambalapitiya Ambalama features plastered masonry pillars, an open-ventilated design, and a tile-clad pyramidal hipped roof. It includes multi-tiered interior benches illustrating historical caste distinctions, alongside a vaulted front alcove designed for a Pinthaliya drinking water pot. […]
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