Sorabora Wewa: Sri Lanka's Ancient Hydraulic Marvel

A 2,000-year-old engineering wonder that still nourishes Sri Lanka's rice bowl today

A Living Testament to Ancient Engineering

Dating back to the 2nd century BC, Sorabora Wewa stands as one of Sri Lanka's earliest and most impressive hydraulic achievements. Built during the reign of King Dutugemunu (161-137 BC), this massive reservoir was originally called the "Sea of Bintenna" for its vast size. Today, it remains:

• The largest reservoir in the Uva Province
• Still fully operational for irrigation
• A hidden gem for history and nature lovers

Why Sorabora Wewa is Special

1. Engineering Brilliance of the Ancients

Construction Secrets:

• Built by Bulatha, a village engineer (not royal architects)
• Original bisokotuwa (sluice gate) technology still visible
• Fed by Mahaweli River via ancient canals

By the Numbers:

• Circumference: 5.6 km
• Depth: 12m at fullest capacity
• Irrigates: 4,500+ acres of paddy fields

2. Legendary Origins

The Folklore:

• Local villager Bulatha created it to win royal favor
• King Dutugemunu was so impressed he made Bulatha a minister
• Mentioned in the Mahavamsa chronicle

3. Ecological Importance

Biodiversity Hotspot:

• Wintering ground for migratory birds
• Home to fish species like tilapia and giant snakehead
• Surrounding lunuwila forests with rare medicinal plants

Experiencing Sorabora Wewa Today

Best Ways to Explore

• Scenic Walk:
  • 2-hour trail along the 3,200m bund
  • Sunrise/sunset views over the water
• Boat Tours:
  • Local fishermen offer rides (Rs. 1,500/hour)
  • Best for birdwatching
• Photography Spots:
  • Ancient sluice gate remnants
  • Bintenna view point (panoramic vista)
  • Farmers working traditional paddy fields

Practical Visitor Information

Location:

• 15km from Mahiyangana
• 5km off A26 highway

Best Time to Visit:

• November-March: Full reservoir, migratory birds
• June-September: Greenest surrounding fields

Getting There:

• From Kandy: 3.5hr drive via A26
• From Badulla: 1hr drive

Entry: Free (small fee for boat rides)

Nearby Historical Sites

• Mahiyangana Rajamaha Viharaya:
  • Ancient Buddhist temple with hair relic
• Dambana Vedda Village:
  • Indigenous community with 18,000-year heritage
• Maduru Oya National Park:
  • Elephant habitats and ancient ruins

Local Flavors to Try

• Kurakkan Roti:
  • Nutritious millet bread from irrigated fields
• Wewal Mas:
  • Reservoir fish curry cooked in clay pots
• Wild Honey:
  • Harvested from nearby forests

Book a Cultural-Historical Tour

Let Sri Lanka Tour Help arrange:

• Guided reservoir history tours
• Combined visits with Vedda villages
• Authentic rural experiences

Plan your visit: https://srilankatourhelp.org