The East - Sri Lanka - page 552

Sights
Japanese Peace Pagoda BUDDHIST
(Sama Chaitya)
This pagoda, 4km west of town, is a graceful stupa with a twist or two, including a
vaguely Roman-looking colonnade ringing its lower level. Niches containing gilded
Buddhas contrast superbly with the whitewashed body of the temple. The incense-smoked
image room near the entrance, with its Buddha statues and colourful altar, is also fascinat-
ing, especially when the friendly resident monk and nun are drumming and chanting.
The main reason for coming here, though, is the chance of seeing herds of passing wild
elephants , but they've been shy in recent years and don't come by like they used to. Try
your luck: at around 5pm to 6pm, the elephants may pass through a narrow passageway in
front of the pagoda, or in the field behind it. Birdwatchers will also find the pagoda plat-
form a handy perch for spotting hundreds of waterbirds that flit about the facing lake.
To reach the temple follow DS Senanayake Rd from the clock tower, which heads to-
wards Inginyagala, passing scenic Ampara Tank. After 4km, a short right turn brings you
to the pagoda.
Sri Manika Pillaiyar HINDU
(Inginyagala Rd)
The Sri Manika Pillaiyar, which boasts an array of Hindu statuary illuminated by fairy
lights, gives Ganesh a lovely view across Ampara Tank.
Sleeping & Eating
Ambhasewana Guest GUESTHOUSE
( 222 3865;51st Ave;r with/without air-con Rs 1800/850; )
Run by a welcoming family, this simple lilac-and-white guesthouse occupies a shady plot
on a quiet side street, a couple of blocks from the town centre. The nine airy rooms are a
great option if you're on a tight budget.