Discover the unique beauty of MADU GANGA nature on a boat trip.
Admire various birds, the water warans, even crocodiles and the
mindblowing mangroves. Visit a cinnamon farmer, an ancient temple on a
small island, a fish farm and the marvellous floating red and white
lotus flower fields. You find Maadu Ganga after passing Ahungalle when
you travel southward from Colombo. The river flows through a thick
jungle of mangroves. Maadu Ganga is really a fascinating place . But the
real beauty of Maadu Ganga can be enjoyed only if you sail downstream
for about a kilo meter. The river spreads out to a very wide area
creating about 25 to 30 tiny islands . ( Local name for an island is
Duwa) . The largest of these are Satha Pahe Duwa, Dimi Duwa, Galman Duwa
and Katu Duwa . Sathe Pahe Duwa is the island which had been purchased
by a person for five cents, a long time ago . Dimi Duwa has a thick
growth of mangroves and gin pol. Galmanduwa is well known because of the
bridge which connects this island to the mainland. Katu Duwa is known
for the thick growth of wetakeiya, mangroves and beli patta. Maa Duwa,
from which perhaps the river has got its name is the largest of these
islands. About 300 families reside here. Kok Duwa is known for the
Buddhist Temple there which caters for the religious needs of these
islanders. Dik Duewa has got its name because it is oblong and is the
longest of the islands. The people who live in these islands are mostly
traditional fishermen. To some extend they are engaged in some
traditional cottage industries as well. The mangroves around these
islands can survive both high tide and low tide. It is a well balanced
eco system.
