The renowned Sorabora Wewa, the massive irrigation reservoir of ancient Bimthanne lies about 1km from the Mahiyangana town. Referred to as the ‘Sea of Bimthanne’ in the ancient past it is a place of historical engineering genius. A beautiful walk-way around the reservoir affords for perfect relaxation.
Constructed during the reign of King Dutugemunu (161–137 BC), legend says that the reservoir was built by a villager and a rather unknown army general called Bulatha. The sluice which is intact and in use since, was built on a natural existing granite rock. Today, the Sorabora Wewa Reservoir which is rich in birdlife is an attraction to the nature lovers.
Using the natural rock to build the sluice gate seems be unique to Bulatha and is one of two known tanks in ancient irrigation history of Sri Lanka to use this technology.
