The Botanical Garden in Gampaha, Sri Lanka, is a lush haven for nature enthusiasts. Spread across acres of land, it houses a diverse collection of exotic plants, trees, and flowers. Visitors can explore well-manicured pathways, encounter vibrant orchid displays, and witness rare botanical specimens. The garden serves as both an educational and recreational space, offering a peaceful retreat with its scenic landscapes and botanical wonders. Whether you're interested in horticulture or simply seeking a serene environment, the Gampaha Botanical Garden provides a delightful experience.
Wolvendaal Church (Wolvendaalse Kerk) is a remarkable Dutch Colonial-era building located in the Pettah neighborhood of Colombo. In 1736, Governor Gustaaf Willem van Imhoff sought approval from the Dutch East India Company (VOC) to demolish the existing church (Kasteel Kerk) within Colombo Fort and construct a new one on the same site. The VOC initially refused, but Governor Julius Valentyn Stein van Gollenesse resolved the impasse. The new church was erected beyond the city walls in an area known as Wolvendaal (Wolf's Dale or Wolf's Valley). The site was chosen for its commanding views across the town, proximity to the entrance, and historical significance. Constructed in the Doric style, the church forms a Greek cross with walls nearly 1.5 meters (five feet) thick. It is made of large kabok (clay ironstone) mixed with coral and lime plaster. The high roof resembles a dome and was originally arched with brick, covered in blue Bangor slate roof tiles. Atop the dome stood a brazen lion symbolizing the seven united provinces of the Dutch Republic. Unfortunately, in 1856, lightning destroyed the lion and damaged the dome. Completed on March 6, 1757, the Wolvendaal Church remains one of the oldest Protestant churches still in use in Sri Lanka.
Colombo is a district where the water resources are much appreciated and cherished, especially for the domestic water consumption of the area. Labugama – Kalatuwa reservoir have been facilitating this dire need throughout the past centuries. Labugama Reservoir can be considered as on of the giants in holding the massive amount of water, with the forest reserve as its sanctuary. The reservoir was established near the Labugama Kalatuwa reserve which constructed interrupting the water flow of Wak Oya of Melanie River Basin. As the British Colonial engineers constructed this stronghold of water, the Labugama river also work as a nurture land for the nearby forest reserve and continuously feeding them being feed back maintains the codependency.
Traditional mask making is another unique industry in Sri Lanka. These handmade masks depict folklore and traditional way of life that is no-longer in wide spectrum in the country. Unfortunately, the it is an industry which is going downhill. The Mawgama Mask making is yet surviving of this tradition.
