Colonialism has played a major role in Sri Lanka’s history and today several lasting legacies of it can be seen. The Kalutara Bridge is one such iconic landmark. Read onto to find out more.
History
The Kalutara Bridge was constructed under the pioneering leadership of J.R. Mosse, Director of the Public Works Department during the early 1900’s. At one point in time, it was considered to be the largest bridge as well as the first concrete one on the island.
The Engineering
It comprises two separate bridges, each spanning 6 lattice girders, with every single girder stretching 100 ft long. They were separated by a ridge in the middle of the Kalu Ganga and was opened to road traffic in August 1877.
Fun Fact
Locals believe that on clear mornings, one can see the Adam’s Peak Mountain from the overpass. Which interestingly is the starting point of the Kalu Ganga. Making it the only river on the island where the starting and ending point can be seen simultaneously.
Catch a Spectacular Sunset
The bridge is also the ideal place to catch to a mesmerising sunset or sunrise especially with the flowing river as a beautiful backdrop. If you are out and about taking in all that the city has to offer, there many hotels in Kalutara including the likes of Turyaa Kalutara to find accommodation in.
Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting.
