The exact origins of the Weniyarawela Ambalama remain unknown. However, it was initially built in a square design with a four-sided sloping roof, much like the nearby Baddegama Ambalama. After falling into disrepair, the Ambalama was rebuilt in 1967, altering its original form and resulting in the loss of much of its historical character.
Paragoda Rajamaha Viharaya is located just 1.2 kilometers from the Imaduwa Interchange on the Southern Expressway, along the Galle–Deniyaya road. The origins of this temple date back to the reign of King Devanampiyatissa, during which one of the 32 saplings (Dethispala Bodhi) from the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura was planted here.
Among temples in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, the murals of Kathaluwa stand out for their bold infusion of colonial themes. In addition to traditional religious scenes, the walls depict horse-drawn carriages, Western-style dresses, shoes, jewelry, and lamps. Unusual for a Buddhist temple, some murals show soldiers with guns, men drinking wine, and individuals playing cards
Nooit Gedacht mansion sits on the site of a Dutch military camp established in March 1640, which served as the launching base for the siege of the Portuguese fort in Galle. The strategic selection of this location was due to its proximity to the Dutch landing site, the availability of freshwater, and the natural protection provided by Rumassala hill.
Kumarakanda Kumara Purana Viharaya’s architectural elements bear several inscriptions that trace its long history. The pandol at the main entrance is inscribed with the year 1703 Buddhist Era (BE), corresponding to 1761 CE, marking an important early phase of the temple’s existence. A wall of the image house carries the date 2328 BE (1784 CE), which is likely the year the image house was constructed.
Nestled between the Indian Ocean and the main Galle Road, just 6.5 kilometers south of Hikkaduwa on the way to Galle, stands the charming and historic Holy Trinity Church in Patuwatha. This small yet picturesque church, consecrated on 22 October 1875, has been a quiet spiritual landmark for nearly a one and a half century.
In the murals within the image house of Thotagamuwa Subadrarama Purana Viharaya, the colonial imprint becomes even more apparent. Figures are shown in European-style clothing, including trousers, shoes, and elaborate hairstyles that contrast with traditional attire. The presence of horse-drawn carriages in the artwork further emphasizes this transitional period in Sri Lankan cultural history.
The Habaraduwa Meepe Welamada Ambalama, built amidst a scenic paddy field, has a long history of over 200 years. The Meepe Ambalama, which was dilapidated was restored and preserved by the Department of Archeology in 2016. This Ambalama is square. The roof is supported by four pillars. It is covered with Sinhala tiles.
Built in 1861, Closenberg Hotel originally served as the residence of Captain Francis Bayley and was known as Villa Marina. It was situated on a small islet in Galle Harbour, which was connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. Over time, the islet merged with the mainland, leaving no visible trace of its original separation.
Today the the small house in which Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Thero was born has been preserved as an archaeological monument. Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Thero (1827–1911) was a prominent Buddhist monk, scholar, and social reformer who played a crucial role in the Buddhist revival movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Meetiyagoda is home to rare blue moonstones, found in only a few places globally. Visitors can explore traditional deep-shaft mines, witness the painstaking hand-filtration process, and see skilled artisans cut and polish the gems. It is a fascinating, hands-on experience showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich mining heritage.
In the 17th century, the Portuguese constructed a fort at the mouth of the Bentota Ganga River, marking the southernmost boundary of their territory in Sri Lanka. The Sinhalese referred to it as “Parangi Kotuwa,” a name that continued to be used for the area until the mid-20th century
Prominent among the mansions in Balapitiya are the Brahmanawatta Walawwa, where Senpathi Don Cosmo Wijesekara, the leader who led the massacre of the Portuguese at Randeniwela in Uva, was born, and the Maha Kappina Walawwa, where nobles descending from the Brahmins who arrived at Sri Lanka in the 11th century lived.
Baddegama Ambalam is situated near Ging Ganga in Baddegama town. From Baddegama town, turn onto Nagoda Road and travel about 100 meters. The road curves around a lake-like channel and then merges with the old Hikkaduwa road, which runs parallel to Ging Ganga. Baddegama Ambalam is located at this junction, nestled among several small shops.
Unawatuna’s golden sands are perfect for soaking up the sun, building sandcastles, or reading a book with the sound of waves crashing in the background. The clear waters are ideal for swimming, and the presence of lifeguards ensures a safe and relaxing experience.
Thalpe Beach is a unique coastal gem near Galle, famous for its iconic “rock pools” carved into the shoreline. These rectangular, emerald-green basins provide a natural, tranquil swimming experience protected from the Indian Ocean’s surf. This serene stretch of golden sand is perfect for relaxation and breathtaking photography.
At the entrance of the Galle Fort stands a granite obelisk, serving as a war memorial. On February 28, 1921, Mr. R.B. Hellings, Government Agent of the Southern Province, unveiled this memorial. It was erected to honour the servicemen from the Galle District who sacrificed their lives during World War I (1914-1919), with their names engraved upon it.
Along the Galle Road in front of the High Court Complex of Balapitiya lies a monument erected by the public to commemorate the coronation of King Edward VII on August 9, 1902. The monument is a pillar made of stone with a large square base with the side facing the road with the inscription.
Thawalama Batahena Ambalama is one such rest stop constructed at a location where ferrymen and wagoners converged. It is believed that the area acquired the name “Thawalama” due to its association with caravans loading goods onto wagons.
The story of Katalua Atadahe Valuwa in Habaraduwa Divisional Secretariat begins with the Portuguese Navy Lieutenant Owen Ferdinands who came to Sri Lanka around 1630. At this time, the coastal area of Sri Lanka was under Portuguese rule.
