Exploring the Rich Heritage of Kotte!

The M.Sc. in Real Estate Management and Valuation (2023/25 batch) students recently embarked on the Kotte Walk as part of their Built Heritage Management module. This immersive journey through the Kotte Heritage and Nature Tour provided a firsthand exploration of the ancient Kotte Kingdom’s rich history, architectural marvels, and natural landscapes.

Highlights of the Kotte Walk:

🔹 Urban Wetland Park – The starting point, setting the stage for an exciting historical adventure.
🔹 Boat Trip on Diyawanna Oya – Breathtaking views of local wildlife and serene surroundings.
🔹 Kotte Fortress Overview – A deep dive into the fortress’s strategic significance.
🔹 Ancient Drawbridge – A masterpiece of Kotte’s engineering ingenuity.
🔹 Diyawanna Ralapanawa – A glimpse into the kingdom’s advanced hydrological systems.
🔹 Sri Lanka – Japan Friendship Road – Panoramic views of the outer ramparts.
🔹 Beddagana Wetland Park – Discovering the biodiversity of an urban wetland ecosystem.
🔹 Inner-City Moat & Rampart – Walking through the kingdom’s primary defense structures.
🔹 Veherakanda – Insights into Kotte’s royal burial traditions.
🔹 Pitakotte Ambalama – A historical wayfarer’s rest house with British-era influences.
🔹 Angampitiya Bastion – Exploring remnants of ancient military infrastructure.
🔹 Kotte Rajamaha Vihara – A sacred temple adorned with unique historical artistry.
🔹 Outer-City Moat – Witnessing the ingenuity of Kotte’s defense systems.
🔹 Alakeshvara Palace – A fascinating glimpse into the administrative heart of the kingdom.
🔹 Konthagantota & Perakumba Pirivena – Exploring a historic jetty and well-preserved ramparts.

This enriching exploration of heritage, architecture, and nature deepened students’ understanding of sustainable Built Heritage Management, bridging the past with the future of real estate and conservation.