Balabowa Ambalama

Balabowa Ambalama (Photo credit: Google street view)

Balabowa Ambalama is an old wayside rest situated in Balabowa village in Gampaha District, Sri Lanka.

History

Ambalamas are traditional resting places built by locals to accommodate wayfarers who were travelling to distant places. They were also used as a place for people to gather, hold meetings and serve as a public place in society. During the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, Ambalamas were spread all over the country. 

The structure

The Balabowa Ambalama is roughly a square-shaped structure built of brick and mortar. The roof which is covered with semi-cylindrical clay tiles (Sinhala Ulu) is held by 4 pillars at the corners. Connecting these pillars, a short wall goes around the structure with an opening for the entrance at the front.