AMBALANGODA
Mask making is a well-known
tradition in Sri Lanka. Traditional masks have played an important role in Sri
Lankan culture and folklore for centuries. Used for both theatrical
performances and rituals, these masks are carefully handcrafted by skilled
craftsmen who have learnt the art from their forefathers. Of these, the
Ambalangoda area on the South Western coast of Sri Lanka is renowned for its
talented artisans. Not only for masks, Ambalangoda has maintained a strong
attachment towards seafood from its long-standing affiliation with the fishing
industry also. The local specialties, most of which consist of spiced dishes of
fish, include; fish ambul thiyal, biling achcharu and fish jaadi.
Furthermore, Ambalangoda
is famous for its cinnamon cultivation and production. Cinnamon was the holy
grail of European invaders of Ceylon and Sri Lanka import high quality, sweet
delicate cinnamon to the world.
Must Visit Place In AMBALANGODA
Ariyapala Mask Museum
Ambalangoda is renowned for the manufacture of wooden masks and puppets. Ariyapala and Sons is an important landmark in the town of Ambalangoda that famed for its history and expertise mask carving and culture. The traditional masks are carved from Kaduru wood, which grow in the marshy lands bordering paddy fields. The wood is smoke dried for a week in preparation. Each mask is made with an incredible attention to detail, with hand-carved details and natural colours.
Moonstone Mine in Metiyagoda
Moonstone’s are in the semi-precious category and are an important component of the Sri Lankan gem industry. The finest of these moonstones have a clear, transparent body, with a strong blue adularescence. Villagers in Meetiyagoda, believe that this piece of land is blessed by the moon. And also, some believe that moonstone denotes protection especially during pregnancy, childbirth and travel. The small visitor center will provide information related to this stone while the large shop on the premises sells moonstones as well as other stones.
Sri Vijayarama Purana Viharaya
Sri Vijayarama Purana Viharaya temple is situated in 1km away from the Ambalangoda town in Sangaraja Mawatha, Kaluwadumulla. The temple has a history more than 200 years. And there are artifacts to prove that’s the temple is there since 1728. At the temple, you would be able to see a wooden statue of Buddha which is also the largest one in South Asia. The biggest wooden Dharma Chakra in Asia can also be found at Sri Vijayarama Purana Viharaya. Even the doors here have wooden carvings and each and every element here is worth admiring.
Monk teaching.
In Sri Lanka, there are many places for Monk teaching.if you are looking to be a volunteer teacher this is the best country to teach monks lots of schools available for monks around Sri Lanka. You can teach the English language, mathematics, or another language to them.
