Martin Wickramasinghe Museum, located in the peaceful village of Koggala, is a must-visit for anyone interested in Sri Lanka’s society in the early 20th century. This special museum, dedicated to Martin Wickramasinghe, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous writers, offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s traditions in a unique way. With its interesting exhibits and calm surroundings, the museum provides an experience that connects visitors with the heart of Sri Lankan culture.
Set in the home where Martin Wickramasinghe was born, the Martin Wickramasinghe Museum is surrounded by beautiful greenery. The house is a well-kept example of traditional Southern architecture, giving visitors a look into what life was like in rural Sri Lanka many years ago. Inside, you’ll find Martin Wickramasinghe’s personal items, old manuscripts, and the first copies of his famous books, giving you a deeper understanding of his life and work.
Martin Wickramasinghe is best known for his books like “Madol Doova” , “Gamperaliya” , “Yuganthaya” and “Viragaya,” which paint a picture of life in Sri Lanka during his time. His stories mix the charm of village life with the changes that were happening in the country. Visiting the museum helps you appreciate how his writing has influenced Sri Lankan literature and culture.
The museum isn’t just about books—it also has a lot to show about Sri Lankan culture. The Folk Museum section is especially interesting, with its collection of traditional masks, musical instruments, and old tools that people used in their daily lives. These displays give you a real sense of how people in Sri Lanka lived in the past.
Outside, you’ll find old bullock carts, fishing boats, and farming tools, which were all important in the daily life of Sri Lankans. Seeing these items up close helps bring the country’s history to life, making it feel more real and connected to the present.
Visiting the Martin Wickramasinghe Museum is easy and should be part of any trip along Sri Lanka’s southern coast. The museum is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the entrance fee is affordable, making it accessible to everyone.
To get the most out of your visit, it’s best to go early in the morning when it’s cooler and quieter. This gives you plenty of time to look around at your own pace. Talking to the museum staff can also be very helpful—they love sharing stories and insights that you might not find on your own.
After exploring the museum, you might want to check out the nearby village of Koggala, which has beautiful beaches and a peaceful lake. Visiting Koggala Lake, with its many islands and rich birdlife, is a perfect way to end your day.
The Martin Wickramasinghe Museum is a place where you can learn not just about a great writer, but also about the culture and history of Sri Lanka. It’s a perfect spot for anyone who wants to understand the country better. Whether you love books or are just curious about Sri Lanka, this museum will add something special to your trip.
Route from Colombo
To reach the Martin Wickramasinghe Museum in Koggala from Colombo, you have several options. If you’re driving, take the Southern Expressway (E01) south from Colombo, then exit at the Galle or Habaraduwa interchange. Continue on the Galle Road (A2) towards Koggala, a journey of about 2 to 2.5 hours.
For those using public transport, you can catch a train from Colombo Fort Railway Station heading towards Galle or Matara. The train ride offers stunning coastal views and takes around 4 to 5 hours, with Koggala being a stop along the way. After arriving at Koggala Railway Station, you can easily reach the museum by tuk-tuk.
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Bastian Mawatha Bus Stand in Pettah, Colombo, Bus Route 02, which travels directly to Matara. Get off at Koggala, and from there, it’s a short tuk-tuk ride to the museum.
