Beli-Lena Caves
Journey into the past
There have been human settlements in Sri Lanka dating back 25,000 years,
according to archaeologists. The ape man known as Balangoda Manawaya had
lived in caves in many parts of Sri Lanka; Beli lena, Batadomba lena,
Bellanpendipellessa and Pahiyangala are some of these.
The Beli lena caves (cave of shells) also known as Balangoda Manawaya's
caves reveal an important landmark in the history of human paleontology
as they reveal remains of primitive man.
Beli lena caves
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About 15 years ago, archaeologists found the skeleton of a child dated
as being 28,500 years old.
When viewed from the foot of the hill, the caves seem a long way up,
surrounded by giant stones and a pure rockface. But there is a comfortable
path of stones to reach the caves without much exertion. The caves go
way back inside and for those who like adventure, the exploration of the
dark caves is a must.
As we went there a few days after the rains, we were drenched by the
sheet of water which fell across the front of the caves as we clambered
up the rocks to the entrance. The view from here is simply breathtaking.
Situated within the Kitulgala estate, these caves were discovered in
1969 by the then Director of National Museums P. E. P. Deraniyagala, father
of present archaeological Commissioner Shiran Deraniyagala.
At the time of discovery, the caves were occupied by some monks (there
are some monuments of a monastery within the caves even at present) but
they left the place when the Department of Archaeology decided to excavate
the site to find evidence of pre-historic human habitation.
During the excavation, shells, (this is why the caves are thus named),
pieces of bones of various shapes and some stone tools were found at
the site. As these caves are situated about 85-kilometres away from the
sea, there is speculation that these shells would have been used for
trade. Smaller shells with deposits of rock salt (found within the site
even at present) proves that salt was brought from the coast.
How to get there: At Kitulgala town turn left (there is a board indicating
the direction) and drive about 9 kilometres and walk about 3 kilometres
through a tea estate. Journey has to be in a four-wheel vehicle.
Created : March 15, 2009
Updated :
March 15, 2009
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