Hambantota: Salt Pans, Birdlife and History

Hambantota brings together the processing of seawater into salt, a diverse birdlife and historic buildings by the sea. The salt pans show how salt is obtained by evaporating seawater that has been let into the pans; the lighthouse points to the nighttime navigation of ships, while the Martello Tower reflects British architectural history. The town thus offers a range of themes rather than focusing on just one attraction. If you are looking for a holiday rental, you can first decide whether you want your trip to focus more on nature and salt production, history or both.

Location and Getting There

Hambantota lies 241 kilometres south of Colombo on the A2 coastal road, in the Hambantota District of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province. The distance gives an indication of the location, but is not a journey time. Check current maps and road conditions for your trip, as route distances and conditions can change.

Salt Pans, Birds and Salt Production

The salt pans of Hambantota, known as Lewayas, attract numerous wading and coastal birds. These include pink flamingos, spot-billed pelicans, various species of plover and tern, gulls, ducks, herons and sandpipers. To produce salt, seawater is let into the pans and left to evaporate; the remaining salt is scraped off and collected. Birdlife and the production process offer two different perspectives on the same place: biodiversity for nature enthusiasts, and salt as the result of a specific work process.

Lighthouse and Martello Tower

An article from 2015 dates the construction of the lighthouse to 1878 and reports that its lamp was gas-powered and stood 35 feet high. Its purpose was to provide ships with light at night to help them navigate their route. The same article describes the Martello Tower: the British built it under the direction of Captain Coper on the tip of a rocky headland beside the lighthouse; the tower faces the sea.

Further Historical References

The Gallows Tree adds another British connection to these sites. An account from 2015 locates it behind the then official residence of the British army commander; the gallows tree was erected facing the sea. A 2015 report also described how Hambantota’s new town developed farther from the coast after the 2004 tsunami.

A Trip Nearby

Ridiyagama Safari Park is located near Hambantota. You can explore the park by bus or safari jeep. This offers a different kind of outing alongside the salt pans and historic sites. If you would like to include the surrounding area in your plans, you can consider this safari as a separate option.

A Holiday Rental to Suit Your Interests

The mix you are looking for can help you choose a holiday rental: nature and salt production on the one hand, historic buildings on the other. If you want to combine both themes, compare the location of your accommodation with the places you plan to visit.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Ranna, Tissamaharama, Galkaduwa, Yala, Tangalla, Palatupana, Agunukolapelessa, Migahajandura.

Back to the main travel overview: Hambantota.