Sri Lanka’s eastern province, more specifically areas like Batticaloa and Kattankudy are steeped in history, traditions and rich culture. While existing bridges, forts and monuments serve as reminders of the past, heritage museums serve as crucial custodians of those elements in real time. Among the available options, the Heritage Museum Kattankudy is a historically rich place that every tourist must explore on their next vacation to Sri Lanka. These “often missed” spots offer a deeper look into the past of the colonial impact and the culture of the country and its people. As you curate your perfect Sri Lanka itinerary, including this heritage museum in your travel plans is non-negotiable.
Location Of Heritage Museum Kattankudy
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The Heritage Museum of Kattankudy is located in the coastal town of Kattankudy, which is a part of the suburb of Batticaloa. Kattankudy is predominantly known for its Muslim population, who bring their vibrant culture and historical significance to this town. Being centrally located, spotting the museum isn’t difficult at all. You get to witness and celebrate the history and culture of the town and Sri Lanka in general.
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Interesting Facts About Heritage Museum Kattankudy
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Here are some of the interesting facts that you must know about Heritage Museum Kattankundy:
Significance and architecture: The Heritage Museum, as its name suggests, preserves the cultural heritage of the Muslim community that resides in Kattankudy. Beyond the actual contents inside the museum, what stands out is the building itself. With the heavy influence of traditional Muslim architectural styles, this historical building is a work of art. Additionally, the museum harbours resources and educational materials for students visiting from nearby schools and universities.
Location: 243 Main St, Kattankudy, Sri Lanka
Heritage Museum Kattankudy timings: 10:30 AM to 06:00 PM
Heritage Museum Kattankudy entry fees: Rs 50 for local adults, Rs 20 for local children and Rs 500 per foreigner.
Things To Do
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As you step foot inside the Heritage Museum, there are several things that you have to prioritise and experience there. These include:
Explore The Exhibits
The Heritage Museum in Kattankudy houses various unique and historical exhibits that capture the essence of the Muslim community that resides and has resided for generations in the town.
Educational Tours
If you are interested in getting an in-depth understanding of the history of the community in Kattankudy, their way of living and how things have shaped up for them over the years, decades and centuries, there are educational tours available inside the museum at an additional cost.
Attend Workshops
Although not frequent, you might come across workshops being hosted inside the museum from time to time. For a unique experience, you can stop and sign up for one of these workshops and take them as well.
Cultural Performances
The museum frequently organises cultural performances that showcase the rich artistic traditions of the Muslim community in Kattankudy. Witnessing the true culture and significance of the community in Kattankudy is quite an interesting experience.
Photography
Lastly, take your time to snap exhibits and items inside the museum that catch your eye. Usually, there are no binding restrictions on photography.
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Places To Visit Near Heritage Museum Kattankudy
Albeit being a small town, Kattankudy is enriched by the vibrant culture and community that resides there. So, once you finish exploring the museum, there are several other places in close vicinity worth visiting.
1. Kattankudy Beach
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After a dose of history, culture and tradition, it’s time to unwind on a sandy beach with waves crashing against the shore. Kattankudy Beach is a popular attraction among tourists and locals. A little far out from the main bustling town, it offers respite and tranquillity for you to relax and rejuvenate. There aren’t any water sports available there, but the water is safe for swimming. Beyond that, you can arrange a picnic on the beach, collect shells and sunbathe too.
Distance from Heritage Museum Kattankudy: 1.4 Km
Timings: 24 Hours
2. Batticaloa Lagoon
Image Credit: Thivaharan Selvanayagam for Wikimedia Commons
There’s no way you could visit the suburb of Batticaloa and not visit the lagoon. A hub for the vibrant marine life in the area, the lagoon stretches along the east coast of Sri Lanka and is renowned for its rich biodiversity. One of the highlights of this lagoon is the “singing fish” phenomenon, which is apparent from April to September in the evening. You can relax, watch birds, or even take a boat ride to explore the lagoon.
Distance from Heritage Museum Kattankudy: 15.9 Km
Timings: 24 Hours
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3. Dutch Fort Batticaloa
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To immerse yourself in a bit more history, consider visiting the Batticaloa Fort, aka the Dutch Fort. It was initially constructed and used by the Portuguese in the 1600s. However, with the transfer of power in the hands of the Dutch, they captured the fort in 1638. Today, not much remains of the fort except the ruins. You can explore the walls, old cannons and bastions that are reminiscent of the colonial era in Sri Lanka. To get a detailed background of the fort and its history, you can also opt for guided tours.
Distance from Heritage Museum Kattankudy: 7.8 Km
Timings: 24 Hours
4. Kattankudy Mosque
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Alternatively known as the “Grand Mosque,” Kattankudy Mosque is another prominent place you must visit while in the town. It serves as a central place of worship for the people following the Islamic faith in the town and the country. The mosque’s stunning blue and white colours make it stand out in the middle of the town. With its rich history, the mosque is also associated with a gloomy past due to the massacre that occurred in 1990, leading to the death of 37 Muslim men and boys.
Distance from Heritage Museum Kattankudy: 9.2 Km approx
Timings: 2 Hours
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5. Batticaloa Lighthouse
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Last on the list of nearby tourist attractions from the Heritage Museum in Kattankudy is the Batticaloa Lighthouse. It is a historical element standing there since its construction in 1913. Initially, the lighthouse was operated manually to guide the forces and the soldiers during the colonial era. At present, the operations of the lighthouse are automated and it provides navigational aid to the ships and boats.
Distance from Heritage Museum Kattankudy: 7.2 Km
Timings: 24 Hours
Best Time To Visit & How To Reach
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As a history buff who likes to learn about people and communities, you might be curious about Heritage Museum Kattankudy. Since exploring the museum requires patience and walking on foot from one exhibit to the other, visit during the colder months of the year, from November to February. These months are backed by a comfortable weather condition, which helps you explore the surroundings without feeling tired or drained.
The nearest hub to the Heritage Museum in Kattankudy is Batticaloa. You can either take a flight from the nearby cities like Colombo or take a train and reach Batticaloa first. Once there, you can find multiple modes of transportation including public buses, auto, tuk tuk and taxis that can take you to the museum.
Pro tip: Always confirm the fare for the ride before you board any transportation (except for public buses, which have standard fares).
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The Heritage Museum Kattankudy, Sri Lanka, offers a multifaceted experience beyond mere observation. Exploring the carefully curated exhibits, individual elements associated with the community and educational tours make it a holistic learning and travel experience. So, the next time you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka and want to immerse in the rich history and culture of its Muslim community, consider visiting this museum.
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Cover Image credit : By Yercaud-elango for Wikimedia Commons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heritage Museum Kattankudy
Where is the Heritage Museum Kattankudy located?
The Heritage Museum is located in Kattankudy, which is a coastal town that’s located in the Batticaloa district in Sri Lanka.
What can I see at the Heritage Museum Kattankudy?
The museum features exhibits on the history, culture, and heritage of the Muslim community in Kattankudy, including rare artefacts, manuscripts, and traditional clothing.
Can we take the children to Heritage Museum Kattankudy?
There are no restrictions associated with visiting the museum. Anyone, irrespective of their age, can visit.
Is photography allowed inside the Heritage Museum?
Yes, there are no restrictions on photography. It is allowed but ensure that you are being respectful of the people around you.
Is filming videos allowed inside the Heritage Museum?
Like photography, filming videos is allowed. However, you can’t use additional equipment like tripods, etc. for filming purposes inside the museum.
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