160 ) DODANDUWA - ECO VILLAGE

The Legend and Legacy of Eco Village

Eco Village is the fulfillment of a father’s tribute to a heroic son. It is synonymous with nature and for those who are familiar with the concept of eco-tourism, this is one of the right places to visit. The world renowned “Island Hermitage” founded by the European scholar and monk Venerable Nyanatiloka nearly 10 decades ago can be seen at a distance. The peaceful atmosphere and outstanding scenic beauty of Dodanduwa lagoon, as well as its surroundings have their own charm even today.

Eco Village is blessed with soothing surroundings. It is a spiritual home once you enter the place. There are many unique features in a vast tract of land facing the lagoon. A mangrove arboretum, a paludarium: exotic plants & tropical fish, reproductions of ancient Sri Lankan sculptures and many other interesting features that are absolutely fascinating.

The concept of Eco Village has been praised in several international travel books. The serenity that pervades at Eco Village makes it 

an ideal location and most sought after venue for romantic weddings, meetings, seminars and other private functions. Friendly service and excellent food make it a venue suitable for any occasion.

Just 400 meters away is the Dodanduwa harbour with its own historical importance since it was an ancient sea gateway. Shailabimbarama temple is in the vicinity with its massive Buddha statue made of granite which is said to have been brought from India. This place claims further recognition as owning the first Buddhist English School; Piyarathana Vidyalaya, in the island. Looms on a nearby hillock Kumarakanda Viharaya temple, a repository of learning that preserves hand written documents of scholars of yore. Hence the area is just steeped in history. 12km to the south is the Dutch-built Gale Fort, which is a world heritage site, and also the scenic Galle Harbour spreads out in marine glory. A holy place for Christians, Calvery Church, Hiniduma and Kanneliya Forest Reserve are 50km away.

                                                        LAGOON DODANDUWA