The Garrison Cemetery

Garrison cemetery site can be reached by proceeding a few metres along Talwatta road close to the Temple of the Tooth. There is a signboard indicating directions to the site.

This burial grounds covering hectare in extent is located between the late Dr PR Tambugala close to the Temple of the Tooth. The Garrison cemetery retains several tombs of British nationals who died during the earlier period of the British occupation of the Kandyan territory. This cemetery which was established in the year 1817, is administered by the authorities of St. Paul's Church, Kandy.

There are 172 tombs, including the tomb of John D'Oyly, who served as the Resident of the Kandyan provinces. The epitaphs recorded on the tombs reveal valuable information about the personalities interested in the cemetery. The following legend narrates, in brief, an account of the life and services of Sir John D'Oyly.

"In| memory of the Honourable Sir John D'Oyly, Baronet, Resident of the Kandyan Provinces, and one of the members of his Majesty's Council of this Island whose meritorious services to this Government from the year 1802 and his talents during the Kandyan Wars stand recorded in the Archives of this Government and in the office of the Secretary of State for Colonies".

Born 11th June 1774 Died at Kandy, 25th May, 182 Aged 49 years.

He was the second son the Venerable Matthias D'Oyly late Archdeacon of Lewes in Sussex, and his three surviving brothers erect this Memorial."

Garrison is the old name of British soldiers' camping ground before it was used as a cemetery. This cemetery has been used up to 1878 till the establishment of the cemetery at Mahaiyawa.

(Heritage of Kandurata by Dr. H.A.P. Abeyawardana P48)

. 9. The Garrison Cemetery situated in the Kandy Town, in the Kandy Grama Niladhari Wasama of the Gangawata Korale Divisional Secretary’s Division, Kandy District, Central Province

Unique Sri Lanka

Garrison Cemetery of Kandy

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