A prolific writer and social commentator, Martin Wickramasinghe was born and bred in the little town of Koggala, Sri Lanka. Located in the Southern Coast of Sri Lanka, the town is a culture-laden, bio-diverse jewel. What has Martin Wickramasinghe lent to the town? And why is the town synonymous with him? you would ask. It is here that the writer crafted many stories, one which is called ‘Madol Duwa’ an adventure that fictitiously took place on the Madol Duwa Island. Madol Duwa is one of seven islands located on the Koggala Lake. A boat ride down the lake is soothing. If you hope to reside at South Lake Resort, you will be able to explore the island and the area that is home to a few more Koggala hotels. However, the beauty lies outside and within the island.
When you reach the town of Koggala, you will find many hand-written signs that will lead you towards ‘Madol Duwa’. Well, the island can be reached only via boat. The signs you see all over Koggala will guide you to a boat and boatman.
While journeying down the lake you would notice many other islands covered in greenery. From within, bird- calls could be heard momentarily, as they compete with the sound of the motor boat. Prawn catchers patiently wait while meaty prawns make their way to the nets. The boat will slow down from time to time, allowing you to absorb the scenery.
Once you reach the island, you will notice a well-used path that will take you around the island. It is a surprisingly small island that can be explored within a few minutes. However what is most fascinating is that this island blossomed in the imagination of Mr. Wickramasinghe.
Once you have explored the island, head over to a bookshop and buy a copy of ‘Madol Duwa’. It will help you re-imagine a much-familiar landscape.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
