My visit to Sri Lanka part-9
By Lokanath Mishra
On 26.12.24 morning I, left
Waskaduwa for Colombo by road in car which is a scenic route that offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. As I travelled along this route, I encountered a mix of modern and ancient attractions, including temples, beaches, and bustling towns. I had seen the following Temples in the Way:
Kalutara Bodhiya which is Located in Kalutara, this sacred site is home to a stunning Bodhi tree, which is said to be a sapling from the original tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
Kalutara Vihara : This ancient temple is situated near the Kalutara Bodhiya and features a range of Buddhist artifacts and sculptures. Panadura : This town is home to several temples, including the Panadura Vihara, which features a beautiful Buddha statue and intricate carvings.
Other Attractions are the following:
I, enjoyed the stunning views of the Indian Ocean at Kalutara Beach. Panadura Beach : I enjoyed another beautiful beach along the route. At 11.30 AM reached in Colombo and I visited, the
Independence Square, located in the heart of Colombo, which is a historic site that commemorates Sri Lanka’s independence from British colonial rule. The square is surrounded by several important landmarks, including the National Museum of Colombo, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Independence Square is a large public square that was built to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence on February 4, 1948. The square features a monument that marks the spot where the country’s first prime minister, D.S. Senanayake, hoisted the national flag and declared independence.
The square is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It’s a great place to relax, take in the sights and sounds of the city, and learn about Sri Lanka’s rich history.
The National Museum of Colombo is one of the oldest and largest museums in Sri Lanka. The museum was established in 1877 and features a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the country’s history, culture, and natural heritage.
Some of the highlights of the museum include:
A collection of ancient Sri Lankan artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry.
A display of traditional Sri Lankan clothing and textiles.
A gallery showcasing the country’s natural history, including exhibits on flora, fauna, and geology.
A collection of artifacts related to the country’s colonial past, including exhibits on the Portuguese, Dutch, and British periods.
The museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage. Its vast collection of artifacts and exhibits provides a fascinating glimpse into the country’s past and is a great way to spend a day in Colombo.
In conclusion, Independence Square and the National Museum of Colombo are two must-visit attractions in Colombo that provide a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply want to learn more about this beautiful country, these two attractions are a great place to start.
Then visited The Port of Colombo which is the largest and busiest port in Sri Lanka and the Indian Ocean, located on the southwestern shores of the Kelani River . It’s a major terminal in Asia due to its strategic location and has undergone significant modernization since the 1980s.
Then visited the Colombo Port City which is a separate project, built on reclaimed land from the Indian Ocean. The China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) is the primary developer of the Colombo Port City, engaged since 2014 . The Colombo South Container Terminal, a part of the port, is developed by Colombo International Container Terminals Ltd., a joint venture between China Merchants Holdings (International) Co., Ltd. and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) .
Construction of the Colombo Port City began in 2014, with the China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) as the primary developer . The project aims to create a financial center and a new city, rising from the Indian Ocean and Chinese government is having an ultimate aim to take away the control over the port from the government of Sri Lanka. ( to be continued)
