Sangili Palama is a type of a narrow suspension bridge (hanging bridge) which lies across rivers in various part of Sri Lanka. The ancient Sangili Palama’s were built using large ropes but now steel cables are used in building these bridges. These bridges are so narrow only pedestrians can use them and most of the time barely 2 people can pass each other. Wooden planks are laid across the cables but in most cases due to non maintenance some planks can be found missing creating gaping holes. the The thrill of a Sangili Palama is the walking across it with the whole bridge bouncing with every steps and swaying side to side. With the bouncing and swinging increasing as you move towards the center of the bridge with rattling notices from stretching cables and loose planks , most people find walking across these types of suspensions bridges nerve wrecking. There are few long and popular suspension bridges in Sri Lanka. Some of them are Peradeniya Hanging Bridge across Mahaweli Ganga and the Ruwanwella Sangili Palama across Kelani Ganga which is believed to be the the longest in the country. Peradeniya Sangili Palama lies across the mighty Mahaweli Ganga (River) connecting the Peradeniya Botanical Garden and the Gannoruwa School of Agriculture. Two pairs of 9.5 meter high steel pillars hold the steel cables of the 127 meter long bridge. It has been built in 1931, during the British rule of then Ceylon. This bridge lies a at the far end of the Peradeniya Botanical Garden. Walking straight in to the garden from the entrance, you will come to the great circular park. Continuing straight through this park brings you to the Royal Palm Avenue, adorned with tall palm trees on both sides. The bridge lies at the far end of this road where it meets the Mahaweli River. This is about a 1.2 km walk from...
Read morePeradeniya Bridge is a historic and iconic bridge located in the town of Peradeniya, near Kandy in Sri Lanka. This bridge is officially known as the "Victoria Bridge" and holds great significance in the region.
The Peradeniya Bridge was constructed during British colonial rule in the late 19th century and is named in honor of Queen Victoria. It stands as a symbol of Sri Lanka's colonial history and engineering achievements of that era.
The bridge features intricate and beautiful ironwork, showcasing the architectural style of the time. The intricate details and design of the bridge make it a remarkable piece of historical architecture.
The bridge spans the Mahaweli River, Sri Lanka's longest river, and connects Peradeniya to the neighboring town of Katugastota. It serves as a vital transportation route in the region. It is not only a functional bridge but also a tourist attraction due to its historical and architectural significance.
Visiting the Peradeniya Bridge is a unique experience, allowing one to step back in time and appreciate the rich history and engineering prowess of Sri Lanka during the colonial era. It's also an excellent spot for taking in the natural beauty of the Mahaweli River and its...
Read moreA satinwood bridge, which spans the Mahaweli-ganga. The bridge was constructed in 1832-1833 by Lt. Gen. John Fraser (1790-1982) which lasted until replaced by an iron bridge in 1905. This bridge is a remarkable structure; it crosses the river with a single span, in which there is neither nail nor bolt, the whole of the massive wood-work being merely dovetailed together. It is constructed entirely of beautiful yellow satinwood, which fifty years ago was so plentiful in the forests of Ceylon that it was used for common building purposes. This wood is extremely hard and dur-able, as is evidenced by the present condition of the bridge, which has now withstood the effects of excessive damp and tropical heat for...
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