The structure of Lambrick Hall embodies a fusion of Dutch architectural style and traditional Sri Lankan design. The edifice features a central hall, complemented by verandahs on all four sides. The anterior and posterior sections of the hall unveil a collection of rooms, each adorned with verandahs that open up to the surrounding environment. Architecturally, the verandah boasts two rows of columns.
St. Anthony’s Church in Kochchikade in Kotahena was established in the 18th century when the Catholicism was a proscribed religion by the Dutch and priests could not exercise their ministry in public. It was one of the churches bombed during the easter attack of 2019.
Located in the heart of Colombo in Maradana, Sri Kaileswaram Kovil in the Captains Garden is considered the oldest Sivan Kovil in Colombo. Though the kovil is situated in center of Maradana, this is also isolated from all sides with a network of railway tracks this not so easily accessible as you would think.
Gothami Viharaya in Borella is world-renowned for its stunning modern murals by George Keyt. These 1930s paintings depart from traditional styles, blending cubism with Buddhist themes. They depict the Buddha’s life through bold lines and vibrant forms, making it a mandatory stop for art lovers and spiritual travelers.
This Colombo lighthouse was used to mark the Colombo Port at night with one fixed light. The lighthouse was built on a wooden structure surrounding a 2 story high brick building on the flagstaff bastion of the Colombo Fort. The Bastian was located almost 120 yards (110 meters) away from the sea and was 12 yard (10.9 meters) above the sea level.
Kshetrarama Maha Viharaya at Lakshapathiya was established in 1829 by the chief monk, Ven. Weligama Sri Sumanatissa Thero. He resided at the Saranapala Maha Vihara in Walana during that period. Notable among the archaeological interests and monuments of the Vihara are the old Buddha shrine, the Seema Malakaya, and the Bhikkhu dwellings.
Hewainna Falls is a wide but small waterfall. The fall is evenly spread along the full length of the river and drops in 2 steps. The first one is about 1 meter in height and the second one is about 2 meters in height.
Lewke Disawa was the first important aristocrat to be assassinated by King Sri Wickrema Rajasinghe. In 1803, the Sinhalese won a great victory at the Battle of Wagolla, while capturing Major Davy, who led the battle. Prince Muthusami, who had accompanied the British army, was killed by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe.
An rather unknown building with no known history. However this construction is similar to the Kotte Gal Ambalama with plain stone pillars and brick walls but much larger. Two large granite pillars consists the door frame to the ambalama.
The Malwana Fort was of defense importance placed on the right bank of Kelani Ganga, a river which leads to Sitawaka. Malwana was first selected as the adobe of the Portuguese Captain General Azevedo in 1590s who had his headquarters there.
Barandi Kovila can be reached by going along the Avissawella – Ginigathhena road just past the bridge over the Sitawaka Oya. Keep looking for the the Archaeological Department signboard on your right when coming from the Avissawella side.
Situated in Etul Kotte, in the heart of our old capital, is the E.W. Perera Memorial Kotte Archaeological Museum named after one of Kotte’s greatest sons, E.W. Perera, also known as ‘The Lion of Kotte’. The museum, set up in 1992, is housed in the Ihala Walauwwa, the home of E.W. Perera, and it contains a variety of artefacts recovered from Kotte and elsewhere, including various regional flags, local costumes, weapons, pottery, chinaware and a collection of coins and other relics.
Established in 1936, Dehiwala Zoo is one of Asia’s oldest and most diverse wildlife hubs. This 23-acre sanctuary houses over 2,500 animals across 350 species. Highlights include a walk-through aviary, a vibrant marine aquarium, and a butterfly garden, all set within lush, meticulously landscaped tropical greenery.
Mountains have always fascinated human imagination. And there we were gazing up at the wooded hill in front of us just a few minutes drive from the city of Colombo. This was the Ambulgama Raja Maha Viharaya
Kotte Kingdom was the capital of our island from 1415-1565 AD predominated by the long reign of Parakrama Bahu VI, the last Sinhala king who ruled a unified L anka.
Thalawathugoda Biodiversity Study Park (Diyasaru Park) covers approximately 60 acres with artificial ponds and canals where you could see over 50 varieties of migratory birds, over 15 fish varieties including three endemic to Sri Lanka and over 25 butterfly species. It is also home to few crocodiles and about five Fishing Cats.
Opened in 2014, Seethawaka Wet Zone Botanical Garden is a 43-hectare sanctuary dedicated to conserving endemic flora. Located near Avissawella, it features scenic lakes, vibrant flower beds, and a mountain-view platform. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, boating, and nearby waterfalls, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
Pannipitiye Devram Vehera is a nine-acre sanctuary near Pannipitiya, uniquely managed by a single monk, Ven. Kolonnawe Shri Sumangala Thera. Established in 1999, it features diverse Indian-inspired architecture and a monumental project to engrave the entire Tripitaka onto 1,700 massive stone tablets to ensure the Dhamma’s thousand-year preservation.
Beddagana Wetland Park is a serene urban oasis in Kotte, perfect for nature enthusiasts. This biodiversity hotspot features scenic boardwalks through lush marshes, offering sightings of migratory birds, butterflies, and dragonflies. Its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful views of Diyawanna Lake make it a refreshing escape from Colombo’s bustle.
Kirigala Ambalama is a brick and mortar wayside rest but built similar to a small house lying on the Meepe – Ingiriya Road inside the Sagara Palansuriya Maha Vidyalaya premises.
