Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a road builder in Sri Lanka a century ago? The Highway Museum, Kiribathkumbura, invites you to step back in time and discover the fascinating history of Sri Lanka’s roads. Located just off the A1 highway, this museum stands as a testament to the country’s engineering ingenuity. It’s a tribute to the dedication and perseverance of the pioneers who paved the way for the smooth travel we enjoy today.
The Highway Museum, Kiribathkumbura, is more than just a collection of old machinery. It’s a captivating glimpse into the past, showcasing tools and equipment that were used to construct roads in Sri Lanka during British rule. You’ll find a collection of steam rollers, tar boilers, and even a model of the iconic Bogoda Wooden Bridge. These machines, some more than 175 years old, are a reminder of the hard work and innovative spirit that went into building Sri Lanka’s road network.
Imagine the sheer power of a steam roller, its wheels churning through the earth, shaping the roads that would connect villages and cities. Imagine the rhythmic clang of hammers as workers laid down the foundation for the road network. The Highway Museum, Kiribathkumbura, allows you to experience this firsthand, offering an interactive and engaging journey through time.
As you wander through the exhibits, you’ll also notice old road signs and maps, remnants of a bygone era that give you a sense of how people navigated the country before the advent of GPS and smartphones. These relics are not just artifacts; they’re windows into the past, providing us with a unique perspective on how people lived, worked, and traveled in Sri Lanka.
The Highway Museum, Kiribathkumbura, is more than simply a place to visit. It’s a platform for learning, understanding, and appreciating the journey of road construction in Sri Lanka. It’s a tribute to the pioneers who built the foundations of modern Sri Lanka, paving the way for its growth and development. Come and discover the stories behind our roads and the legacy of the people who built them.