Voyageur Vol:1 | Page 23

V O Y A G E U R 22 By K.L Shashinika Nvanjani ambantota District is part of the traditional south known as Ruhuna. In ancient times this region, especially Hambantota and the neighboring areas was the Centreof a flourishing civilization.Hambantota has been named by many as the fastest developing region in Sri Lanka today. We have more strength to tourismattractionsofHambanthota. There are abundant natural features, accessibility (Land, Air, Sea based), establishedattractions, characteristics coastal town &Incensement of tourists'arrivals. Today Rapidly Developing Tourism Infrastructure facilities in Hambanthota district, initiated Hambanthota International Airport, Magampura harbor, other high profile development projects are the International Cricket Stadium, the Botanical Gardens and the Heritage Museum. These are the main attractions of Hambanthota area. Hummayanaya is the largest blow whole in Sri Lanka and second largest of the six large blow holes in the world. Hummayanaya is a natural fountain which happens as water from H the sea rushes through a cave under the rocks and pushes outward. Rekawa Turtle Breeding Centre, Close to Tangalle, a turtle breeding beach at village Rekawa is a perfect place for animal lovers. Tourists can find five out of eight known species of turtles who visits the island to lay eggs. Situlpawwa Temple is a beautiful very old temple that was once a well known Buddhist monastery. Situlpawwa temple is located in the Hambantota district and is considered to be an important historical site for Buddhist teachings. Martello Tower, located just a few meters south of the Hambanthota. It was built by the British Empire in late 18th century. Martello Tower is about 25 feet in height and 40 feet in diameter with two stories. There is a lighthouse, a bungalow and gallows close to the tower. Bundala National Park is one of the famous attractions in Sri Lanka for watching migratory birds. It is famous for its aquatic bird-life which feeds on the rich harvests provided by the numerous lagoons throughout the park. Bundala provides shelter for over 197 species of Birds, including the Greater Flamingo, which migrate in large flocks. The ecological areas of the national park contain seven terrestrial habitat types and six wetland types.