Escape to peaceful surroundings amid stunning scenery with a visit to Muthurajawela Marsh – an ideal location for those looking to get away from it all while still remaining relatively close to Colombo. As one rides towards the south end of Negombo Lagoon which is around thirty kilometers northwards from Colombo center, this vast swamp promises its visitors a rich abundance of life forms with over two hundred flora and fauna species thriving within it; quite notably among these inhabitants are some extraordinary rare beings that are unique to this place.
Muthurajawela means “Swamp of Royal Treasure” in Sinhala, and it is said that the marsh was once a fertile rice field before it was flooded by sea water due to a canal built by the Portuguese in the 17th century. Over time, nature transformed Muthurajawela into a wetland ecosystem that supports various habitats such as mangroves, marshes, grasslands and forests.
The best way to explore Muthurajawela Marsh is by taking a boat ride along the waterways that crisscross the wetland. You can enjoy the tranquil scenery of lush greenery and clear water, and spot many animals and birds along the way. Some of the common sightings include purple herons, cormorants, kingfishers, crocodiles, monkeys and otters. You might even catch a glimpse of the elusive slender loris, a nocturnal primate that is endemic to Sri Lanka.
Beyond its appeal as a tourist hot-spot, the Muthurajawela Marsh forms an invaluable natural resource pivotal to many important ecosystem services. These include pollution control; flood regulation; carbon sequestration; and climate maintenance. Additionally, local livelihoods in fishing, forestry and agriculture depend largely on this wetland to thrive. As such there’s need of greater conservation measures to ensure that this heritage lands stays protected for future generation.
Muthurajawela Marsh is a hidden gem that offers a unique and memorable experience for nature lovers and birdwatchers. It is a must-see destination for anyone who wants to discover the beauty and diversity of Sri Lanka’s wetlands.
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