Sri Lanka’s first wax museum

Sri Lanka’s first and only wax museum is set to open in a few days at Ehelepola Walawwa in Kandy. The museum will feature wax exhibits depicting key aspects of the Kandyan era, including its architecture, customs, culture, cuisine, industries, and arts, offering visitors an educational experience.

During the colonial period, the original form of this historic mansion was altered and repurposed as a prison. Managed by the Department of Prisons until recently, the building was later handed over to the Urban Development Authority, renovated at a cost of Rs. 150 million, and eventually transferred to the Sri Dalada Maligawa through a special grant.

A Pirith chanting ceremony was held to transfer merit to the members of the Ehelepola family and to all those who contributed to the creation of the museum. Pix by Shane Senavirathne