Introduction: Kalawewa is a man-made reservoir located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. This historical reservoir was built by King Dhatusena in the 5th century AD and is considered one of the oldest and largest reservoirs in the country. It has played a vital role in irrigation and agriculture in the region, and also has a rich cultural and historical significance.
History & Culture: The construction of Kalawewa dates back to the 5th century AD, during the reign of King Dhatusena of Anuradhapura. It was built to provide water for agriculture in the region, particularly for the cultivation of paddy fields. The reservoir is a testament to the advanced hydraulic engineering skills of ancient Sri Lankan kings. The reservoir was expanded in later periods, particularly during the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great, who constructed several canals and tanks to connect Kalawewa to other parts of the country.
Flora & Fauna: The surrounding areas of Kalawewa are home to a variety of plant and animal species. The area around the reservoir is predominantly grassland and scrub jungle, with scattered trees and patches of forest. The reservoir itself supports a variety of aquatic life, including fish, crabs, and freshwater shrimp. The surrounding areas are home to several bird species, including Indian Cormorants, Purple Herons, Little Egrets, and Grey Herons.
Main Tourist Attractions: Kalawewa is primarily a destination for those interested in history, culture, and nature. The ancient reservoir itself is a major attraction, and visitors can explore the ancient canals and sluices that were used to irrigate the surrounding fields. The Kalawewa Archaeological Site is also a major attraction, and visitors can explore the remains of the ancient city that once surrounded the reservoir. The site includes the remains of an ancient palace, temples, and other buildings. The Kalawewa Forest Reserve, located near the reservoir, is also a popular destination for nature lovers, with its rich variety of flora and fauna.
Activities: Visitors to Kalawewa can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, bird watching, and exploring the ancient ruins. The area around the reservoir is ideal for hiking, with several trails that lead through the surrounding countryside. Bird watching is also a popular activity, with several species of birds that can be spotted in the area. Exploring the ancient ruins is another popular activity, with several temples and other buildings that offer a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
Weather: The climate in Kalawewa is generally hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 30-35 degrees Celsius during the day. The best time to visit Kalawewa is between November and April, when the weather is relatively cooler and drier.
Food: There are several restaurants and food stalls in the vicinity of Kalawewa that offer a variety of local dishes, including rice and curry, seafood, and vegetarian options. Visitors can also enjoy fresh fruits and juices from the local markets.
Accommodation: There are several accommodation options available near Kalawewa, including guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Most of the accommodations are located in the nearby town of Anuradhapura, which is about 30 kilometers from Kalawewa. Some of the popular options include the Heritage Hotel, Rajarata Hotel, and the Ulagalla Resort.
How to reach:
Kalawewa is located in the Anuradhapura district of Sri Lanka, which is in the northern part of the country. Here are the ways to reach Kalawewa:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Kalawewa is the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Kalawewa, which is about a 4-hour drive away.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Kalawewa is the Anuradhapura railway station, which is about 25 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kalawewa.
- By Bus: Kalawewa is well-connected by road to the major cities in Sri Lanka. You can take a bus from Colombo, Kandy, or Anuradhapura to reach Kalawewa.
- By Taxi: Taxis are readily available from Colombo, Kandy, and Anuradhapura to reach Kalawewa. You can either hire a taxi for the entire trip or take a shared taxi.
Once you reach Kalawewa, you can explore the area on foot or by hiring a bicycle or a motorcycle.
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