THE MASK MUSEUM

It was a messy day in the island and I packed my stuff to headed to Ambalangoda, one of the unique location in Sri Lanka. Ambalangoda is a coastal town located in Galle district, famous for ancient and cultural masks and of course beaches.

                                                        My targeted destination was "Ariyapala Mask Museum". I heard about this place few months ago and the moment I heard that my curious felt me no excuses but to visit that as soon as possible.

At around 1030 I managed to catch the train to Ambalangoda. It was bit crowded with few tourists and locals. Normally I'm not much train person but I found interesting traveling by train. It was pretty fast and one side view was full with fabulous beaches. More than sitting I found much joy standing near train exit door. The view and breeze felt me like sailing on a speed boat.

Around 1230 train has reached to Ambalangoda Station. My destination was about 2km away from the station. Weather was at around 28*C but carpet roads the crowd felt me sweaty. However I walked to the museum within few minutes.

In front it looked usual country architect building and few visitors were there. First thing I did was get my self relax after descant walk.

                                                         I stepped inside and place was full of faces. I mean masks. But I felt more peace rather than fear or uncertainty. There was a lady and one gentleman. They were working with few foreign customers. So I decided to look around and grab few photos without disturbing them. Although photography was restricted in premises.

There were different kind of masks and puppets made by wood. As a Islander I know that each and every mask represent a different kind of story and character. The fact is that most tourists or locals don't have clear knowledge about stories behind these faces. It emerge the cultural and the beliefs of these people and there remarkable history.

For people who are curious about the history behind these faces usually visit the left block of this building. It was the museum and all about history and stories. According to the reports the main architect of these creations was born on 1798. The name mentioned as Sir Juwan Wadu Adoris De Silva. Under his influence his children and upto now his 20th century grand children continuing it with lot of respect and responsibility.

And finally I came to the base. There were 05 people, working on wood and colours to bring out these masterpieces in to reality. I didn't want to bother them for some reasons and so I thank them all and headed to my next destination.

The place was absolutely amazed me and worth my time. To people who are curious about history and culture and even kids, this is a unique place to study and do some research. However on the way back to home I promise myself a tattoo, one of these fine art.