
AMBALAMA HERITAGE
Apalawatta Ambalama (Yatawaka Ambalama)
අත්තනගල්ල ඇපලවත්ත අම්බලම
WESTERN PROVINCE
COLOMBO DISTRICT
7°5'36.23''N 80°9'17''E
Scroll
The seats are built at three different heights. Even resting had a hierarchy.
STAND INSIDE IT — 360°
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.
THE PHOTOGRAPHS

THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S NOTES
- Viran de Silva
ONWARD
Or let the island choose – take me anywhere
UNIQUE SRI LANKA
colTally
SOURCES
colSources
RECORD
colSources
CONTACT
Photographs © Viran de Silva
info@virandesilva.com
uniquesrilanka.com




