Located in Padukka, Around 45mins, drive from Colombo, Una Arana features Sri Lanka's only museum and garden complex, dedicated to preserving the great oriental bamboo tree.
The museum showcases the the cultural heritage of bamboo and the role it has played in Sri Lankan history. Various day to day household implements, made using bamboo are also presented here. The Museum also highlights the efforts taken by the Una Arana team in preserving and protecting threatened bamboo species in Sri Lanka.
The main focus is on bamboo cultivation and preservation in terms of ensuring future generations are able to appreciate these perennial evergreens.
The Una Arana team also conducts an educational programme on the preservation of the nearly extinct Slender Loris (loris tardigradus nycticeboides), small nocturnal primates which are only found in the tropical forests of southern India and Sri Lanka.
The Una Arana gardens consist of around one acre and are attractively appointed with gaint bamboo trees and shrubs surrounding the area, providing a pleasant cool breeze and calming ambiance.
Visitors to Una Arana can also explore its nursery where over 15 rare bamboo species are propagated, learning the most suitable conditions for these evergreen plants and how the species is threatened from urbanization, deforestation and global warming,to name but a few.
Visitors can also learn the various uses of bamboo in local Sri Lankan culture. From bamboo shoots as food, as medicine, in construction, as fabric for textiles and even as paper, the myriad properties and uses of the humble bamboo can also be uncovered here.
With plenty of space to explore and a special area for meals to be had, the Una Arana location is also popular as a venue for small conferences and seminars, with the majestic backdrop of giant bamboo trees a favourite photo scene for wedding couples and television, advertising and
cinema directors. A small stall retails souvenirs and bamboo related products....................
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http://www.srilankatravelnotes.com/COLOMBO/UNAARANA/Sadaharithabambopark.html
