Discover the historical marvel of Elahara Anicut, a remarkable irrigation system in Sri Lanka. Explore its rich history, engineering ingenuity, and its significance in travel and tourism.
| Name | Elahara Dam |
| Other Names/Old names |
Elahara anicut , Elahara Amuna , Elahara Dam |
| Location | Galaboda , Kandy district |
| Address | |
| Water source | Amban Gannga |
| Co-ordinations | 7.7088287,80.7788272 |
| Started at | 67 |
| Trip Type | historical , ancient civilizations |
| Elevation | 180m |
| Best days/Dates to visit | Throughout The year |
| Entrance Fee | – |
| How to get there | From dambulla , Via Dambulla – Bakamuna – Kalugahawela Road/B615
Via Kandy Rd/Kandy – Jaffna Hwy/A9 and Naula-Elahera-Pallegama-Hettipola Rd/B312 From akandy Via Kandy Rd/Kandy – Jaffna Hwy/A9 and Naula-Elahera-Pallegama-Hettipola Rd/B312 |
| Open times | |
| Public Transportation | |
| Privet Transportation | |
| Height / Length / Dimension | Height 4.6 m Width 180 m |
| Nearest Bus Stop | Elahara Dam |
| Nearest Train Station | Habarana |
The Elahera Canal, considered the first to divert river water to Sri Lanka’s lakes, is supplied by a dam across the Aban River – the Alahera Amuna. Constructed around AD 67, the Elahera Dam showcases ancient Sri Lankan expertise in irrigation, engineering, and geography.
Location of Elahera Dam
Elahera Amuna lies on the border of Matale and Polonnaruwa Districts. From Dambulla, take the Naula road and Bakamoona Hiritale road to reach this canal-lake junction. Water from this canal travels about 56 miles to Minneriya in Polonnaruwa.
History of Construction and Development
King Wasamba initiated this grand irrigation project, followed by improvements under King Mahasen. During King Agbo’s rule, the British administration brought changes in 1905. Under Mr. DS Senanayake’s guidance in 1942, further enhancements were made.
Anicut Construction and Technology
Modern anicuts are constructed with concrete, while the old anicut nearby is made of massive black stone blocks. It stands around three meters tall and incorporates square hull blocks ranging from 75 cm to 1.5 meters in height. Stones are carefully placed to prevent sliding and enhance strength. Historically, constructions reached depths of about 180 meters, showcasing an impressive irrigation system. Limestone plaster fills gaps, and outer parts are finished with bricks.
Alahera Amuna holds immense historical, social, and environmental value. Our responsibility is to safeguard and appreciate this treasure.
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