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AMBALAMA HERITAGE

Apalawatta Ambalama (Yatawaka Ambalama)

අත්තනගල්ල ඇපලවත්ත අම්බලම

WESTERN PROVINCE

COLOMBO DISTRICT

7°5'36.23''N 80°9'17''E

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The seats are built at three different heights. Even resting had a hierarchy.

STAND INSIDE IT — 360°

Drag to look around

THE PLACE

The Ambalama (Sinhala: අම්බලම) is a simple structure that was designed to provide shelter for passing travellers. There were no charges for using the premises of the Ambalama as it was made, as an offering of goodwill (Pinkama). Ambalamas were also ideal points where it is said, many a traveller would recite old Sinhala poetry for the others sharing the nights rest abode to…listen to. This structure was of indigenous architecture and made to withstand weather conditions. 


The Apalawatta Ambalama in Urapola is also known as Yatawaka Ambalama lies by the roadside but overlooking a beautiful playfield. Interesting to note that seating inside the Amblama, is constructed at three different heights, believed to have accommodated different social levels or classes.

PROVINCE

Western Province

DISTRICT

Colombo District

DS DIVISION

Attanagalla Divisional Secretariat

GN DIVISION

LOCALITY

FROM COLOMBO

48 km · 1 h 28 min
54 km · 1 h 23 min by expressway

COORDINATES

7°5'36.23''N 80°9'17''E

THE PHOTOGRAPHS

THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S NOTES

- Viran de Silva

ONWARD

Or let the island choose – take me anywhere

UNIQUE SRI LANKA

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SOURCES

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RECORD

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CONTACT

Photographs © Viran de Silva
info@virandesilva.com
uniquesrilanka.com

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