HAMBANTOTA

Hamabantota, the largest town on the southeastern coast with a population of about 30,000 is a well-sheltered fishing port. Its lovely Rest House hangs on reddish cliffs, which overlooks a white beach backed by sage-green jungle. Just outside the town are saltpans where seawater is left to evaporate, then carried by a mini-rail to salt factories. Close to the Rest House is the “Martel Tower” of the Dutch of which the only other example is found in France. From the roof of the upper floor you can get a “Gunner’s view” of the ships passing on the shipping lane. The Salt-terns Maha-Lewaya and Koholankala Lewaya are famous for Birds as well specially for a large flock of Lesser Flamingos. Hambantota also popular for the 2nd International Airport in the Island.