Highlights
- The Parliament building was designed by Geoffrey Bawa
- Kotte was the island's capital from 1411 to the 16th century
- Diyawanna Lake is home to water birds and wetland plants
- Jogging and cycling paths run along the lake shore
- Diyatha Uyana park by the water is popular in the evening
Overview
The Parliament of Sri Lanka stands on an island in Diyawanna Lake (Diyawanna Oya) at Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, the administrative capital, on the eastern edge of Colombo. It is one of the best known works of Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka's most celebrated architect.
The building
The complex was commissioned in 1979 and opened in 1982. Bawa designed a group of pavilions with large copper roofs, inspired by traditional Kandyan and Sri Lankan architecture, rising from the water. The design is a key example of what is called tropical modernism, mixing modern forms with local tradition. The site was chosen because Kotte was the capital of the island in the 15th and 16th centuries, during the Kotte kingdom.
Visiting
The parliament is a working government building, so access is controlled. It is usually seen from across the lake, from the causeway approach or from lakeside parks. Public galleries and visits may be possible with permission; enquire officially in advance.
Diyawanna Lake and wetlands
Much of the lake was reshaped when the parliament was built, but it still supports wetlands, lily ponds, marsh and grassland. Birds include spot-billed pelicans, purple herons, pond herons, white-throated kingfishers and little cormorants, as well as migrants.
- Diyatha Uyana: a lakeside park with walkways, a weekend market and boardwalks over the water.
- Beddagana Wetland Park: a protected wetland with trails and an observation tower, good for birdwatching.
- Boating and walks: boat rides and jogging tracks along the shore.
How long it takes
One to three hours, depending on how much walking you do.
When to go
Early morning for birds; late afternoon for walks and sunset views of the parliament.
Getting there
Kotte is about 30 minutes by road from Colombo Fort, depending on traffic.
Practical tips
- Respect security rules near the parliament; photography may be restricted.
- Bring binoculars for the wetlands.
See more Bawa at the Bawa house and the Seema Malaka. See things to do in Colombo and Colombo hotels.