Kandalama Reservoir Bunt

The Kandalama Bunt is the massive, 1.6-kilometer-long earthen embankment that holds back the waters of the scenic Kandalama Reservoir (Kandalama Wewa). Located just a short drive from Dambulla in the heart of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, this ancient man-made lake was originally constructed to support regional agriculture. Today, the bunt serves as a picturesque, elevated pathway offering some of the most breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic views of the water, the lush jungle canopy, and the distant hills.

• Historical Irrigation: The reservoir was created by damming the Mirisgoniya Oya, a key tributary of the Kala Wewa. While its ancient origins date back centuries, the massive embankment was extensively rehabilitated and expanded by the Sri Lankan Department of Irrigation between 1952 and 1957 to support modern agricultural needs in the dry zone.

• Scenic Views and Wildlife: Walking or cycling along the wide, flat top of the bunt provides an incredible vantage point. The calm waters beautifully reflect the surrounding green landscape, making it a highly popular spot for nature photography. Visitors frequently spot an array of water birds, eagles, and occasionally, wild elephants coming to the water's edge to drink during the dry season. The famous, eco-friendly Heritance Kandalama hotel, an architectural masterpiece designed by Geoffrey Bawa, is seamlessly built into the cliffs overlooking the reservoir just beyond the bunt.

• Navigation and Tips: The bunt is easily accessible via tuk-tuk or a short bicycle ride from the Dambulla town center. The unpaved dirt path along the embankment is flat and wide, making it perfect for a leisurely evening stroll. There are often a few local vendors selling fresh king coconut and traditional snacks near the entrances. Since the bunt is completely exposed to the elements, wearing a hat and applying sunscreen is highly advisable if you are visiting during the midday hours.