The very name Ambalangoda evokes in the mind elaborate puppets who obey one’s command at the mere pull of a string and ornately carved masks gleaming in life-like vibrance that only the local craftsmen in the area are capable of creating. Head towards this charming village synonymous with authentic handicrafts, while lodging at one of the best hotels Sri Lanka such as The Sands, known to be one of the best Kalutara hotels located within the vicinity. A true emblem of traditional arts and crafts, Ambalangoda boasts of the very best of masks and wooden puppets carved out of the light Kaduru wood taken from the Kaduru tree which grows on marshy lands, specifically bordering rivers, lakes and paddy fields. Most of these masks portray vicious looking devils, with long teeth and long tongues rolling out of their mouths while many have multiple serpents sprouting out of their heads.