Kotte Archaeological Museum: A Hidden Gem of Colonial History

Step into the Home of Sri Lanka’s "Lion of Kotte"

Housed in the Ihala Walawwa, the former residence of E.W. Perera, this museum showcases 16th-century Kotte Kingdom artifacts, colonial-era relics, and unique historical curiosities.

Why History Lovers Should Visit

The Building Tells Its Own Story

• 19th-century walawwa (mansion) architecture.
• E.W. Perera’s study preserved as he left it.
• Secret compartments used to hide anti-colonial documents.

Unique Collections

• Original regional flags from pre-independence Sri Lanka.
• "Lace Bhikkhu" robes – European-influenced monks’ garments.
• Portuguese cannonballs from Kotte fortifications.

Top Exhibits Not to Miss

1. Kotte Kingdom Gallery

• Bronze seals of King Parakramabahu VI.
• Terracotta tiles from ancient royal palaces.

2. Colonial Oddities

• 1800s European wigs – Brought by British governors’ wives.
• Dutch VOC porcelain – Traded for cinnamon.

3. E.W. Perera Memorial

• Famous "Lion" pamphlet that sparked independence movements.
• Handwritten letters to Winston Churchill.

Visitor Tips

• Hours: 9 AM–5 PM (Closed Fridays & Public Holidays).
• Entry: ~LKR 500 (Foreigners) / ~LKR 100 (Locals).
• Photography: Permitted (No flash).
• Parking: Available at Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte bus stand.

Nearby Historical Sites

• Kotte Raja Maha Viharaya (5-min walk) – Ancient temple.
• Sri Lanka Parliament (10-min drive).
• Diyatha Uyana (15-min walk) – Scenic waterfront park.

Local Insights

• Hidden Gem: Ask staff to show the hidden staircase used during colonial raids.
• Best Time: Weekday afternoons.

Explore Kotte’s Heritage

Book our "Forgotten Capitals" tour at srilankatourhelp.org.

Did You Know? The museum’s hair collection helped historians study European settlers’ health!

SEO Keywords

• Kotte Archaeological Museum
• Sri Jayawardenepura history
• E.W. Perera residence
• Colonial artifacts Sri Lanka
• Offbeat Colombo museums