2025
DIMO Desk Calendar

Senanayake Samudraya is the largest reservoir and man-made lake in Sri Lanka, located in Inginiyagala, in the Ampara district. It was created by damming the Gal Oya River and several smaller rivers between two mountains in Inginiyagala. Built in 1953, it is also known as the “Inginiyagala Reservoir.” It forms part of the Gal Oya multipurpose irrigation system project, which was completed under Sri Lanka’s first prime minister, D.S. Senanayake.

Bundala National Park is the first Ramsar site (wetlands of international importance) in Sri Lanka and the most significant wetland for birds on the island outside the Northern Province. The beach along the coastal belt is a favored nesting ground for sea turtles, while the brush forest adjoining the beach is home to various reptiles, including pythons, rat snakes, cat snakes, and the endemic flying snake.

Sorabora Wewa, located in Mahiyanganaya, Sri Lanka, is an ancient reservoir believed to have been built by the legendary giant Bulatha during the reign of King Dutugemunu. This historic body of water is unique for its rock-cut sluice gate, a rare engineering marvel in ancient times. Sorabora Wewa continues to serve as a vital irrigation source for local agriculture, offering scenic views and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history of hydraulic engineering.

The specialty of Loggala Oya Reservoir is that the Badulla-Mahiyangana main road runs across the dam. Additionally, the water exits of the reservoir feature a beautiful, unique design. Built in 1984 as a level crossing reservoir under the multipurpose Mahaweli Development Project, it continues to serve both functional and scenic purposes.

Handapanagala Reservoir is a scenic reservoir located in the Monaragala District of Sri Lanka’s Uva Province. The reservoir is known for its natural beauty, with calm waters surrounded by lush greenery and distant mountains. The reservoir is traditionally associated with the reign of King Valagamba (104-88 B.C.) The ancient ruins of Kanabisopokuna Raja Maha Viharaya are located near the southern embankment of the reservoir. The present tank was restored in 1952. The floods in December 1957 breached the dam. It was restored again in 1960.

Originating in the pristine Horton Plains nature reserve, the Belihuloya River cascades into waterfalls such as Baker’s Falls, Galagama Falls, Pahanthudawa Falls, and many smaller falls, thundering over thousands of boulders along its 4 km journey. The river descends to the valley of Ulugalathenna, about 2,000 meters below. This arduous journey provides exceptional natural purification through a natural oxidizing process, making its waters the purest.

Gerandi Ella, is a majestic amalgamation of several waterfalls, cascading a total height of 270 meters. Visible from a distance, the falls originate from the Galaha Forest Reserve, flowing through Galbithiya before joining the Puna Oya, where it creates another 6-meter fall at the estuary. Located around 100 meters below a tea estate in Ramboda, the falls can be accessed via estate paths or Ramboda village footpaths. Its snakelike shape inspired its name.

The Talaimannar Coastal Swamp, found near the bridge viewpoint on Talaimannar Island (located off the northwestern coast of Mannar Island in Sri Lanka), is a place of historical and ecological significance. This swampy ecosystem is characterized by a unique mix of salt-tolerant and water-loving plants, such as mangroves, saltmarsh grasses, and algae. Mangroves provide protection from erosion and serve as a nursery for marine life. The plants in the swamp help filter pollutants and improve water quality, while also capturing and storing carbon dioxide.

Laxapana Falls is the 8th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, standing at 126 meters, located in the Maskeliya area of the Nuwara Eliya District. It is formed by the Maskeliya Oya near the confluence of the Kehelgamu Oya and Maskeliya Oya, which together form the Kelani River. The falls lend their name to two hydroelectric power stations: the Old Laxapana Power Station, generating 50 MW of electricity, and the New Laxapana Power Station, generating 100 MW.

Vankalai Lagoon is a sanctuary where wildlife and bird lovers can find a haven. Spanning an area of more than 4,800 hectares, it provides a plethora of ecosystems, including mangroves, salt marshes, lagoons, waterholes, and grasslands. Declared a Ramsar Site in 2010, it was designated a wetland site of international importance under the Ramsar Convention treaty. The sanctuary is home to over 20,000 waterbirds during the migratory season, as well as several rare bird species. In addition to supporting nearly 150 different species of birds, it also hosts more than 60 wildlife species, including fish, turtles, dugongs, and crocodiles.

Maussakelle Reservoir, located in Maskeliya, Sri Lanka, is a picturesque body of water surrounded by the lush hills of the central highlands. It serves as a key water source for hydroelectric power generation, feeding the Laxapana and Wimalasurendra power stations. Nestled near the famous Adam’s Peak, the reservoir offers stunning views, especially at sunrise. It is also popular with pilgrims and trekkers, as the sacred mountain looms majestically in the backdrop, enhancing its scenic beauty.

Kumari Ella Falls is a 4-meter waterfall located in Puwakpitiya, Avissawella. It is named after Kumari, the daughter of King Rajasinghe I of Sitawaka, who drowned there. Despite its modest height, Kumari Ella Falls is extremely powerful due to the merging of four different streams at this point, which eventually join the major river, the Kelani.