Apē Gama - Traditional Village image

Apē Gama - Traditional Village

Heritage museum

Living heritage museum & events venue with rustic village houses & handicrafts on sale. People often mention village, Lankan, traditional, Gama, cultural, life, events, Battaramulla, venue, Colombo,


Address

110 New Parliament Rd, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte 10120, Sri Lanka

Contact

+94 112 785 826

Rating on Google Maps

4.20 (1.4K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Sunday: 8 am to 6 pm
  • Monday: 8 am to 6 pm
  • Tuesday: 8 am to 6 pm
  • Wednesday: 8 am to 6 pm
  • Thursday: 8 am to 6 pm
  • Friday: 8 am to 6 pm
  • Saturday: 8 am to 6 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: village (53) Lankan (28) traditional (23) Gama (18) cultural (16) life (15) events (13) Battaramulla (13) venue (12) Colombo (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Thivantha H. 3 years ago on Google
    This is under the supervision of Ministry of Education. Lot of space available including enough space for parking. They have made an ancient village hers, so people come here to watch and learn from it too. Few Auditoriums available. Also there is a made up village. It’s useful. Customer service is helpful. Wheelchair accessible entrance available. No wheelchair accessible parking available.
    25 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ahmad Akram Mohamed I. 6 years ago on Google • 236 reviews
    Recreation of life in a Sri Lankan village with houses made of mud enclosed with twig fences, to the figurines of men and women in demonstrating various way of life in village living is showcased in all the exhibits. Able to spend about 1 to 2 hours. Able to purchase reasonable price souvenir at the outdoor cart shops.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 SL Nerd C. 5 months ago on Google • 238 reviews
    Went for and event . This was a great place back in couple of years. Sadly now no maintenance at all. They are unable balance the power .. half of the event no air-conditioning

  • 5/5 Sadanjane M. 1 year ago on Google • 54 reviews
    It's great place to organize your social events. And the staff is very friendly. Enough space for any event. But how you must book.the place first. Google "ape gama". And you will find many information
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Koshala P. 1 year ago on Google • 18 reviews
    Had an enjoyable evening with family. The restaurant's live music & the lighting gave it a very relaxing atmosphere. There was a wide selection of food which was very tasty. Hats off to Chef Sujith and the team. The staff was very attentive. Excellent service. Will definitely visit again.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Buddhika W. 4 years ago on Google • 80 reviews
    This will be my wedding venue!! This place has a super spacious parking lot and spacious reception hall. And it is all about the Sri Lankan culture. The staff is quite supportive but not very friendly. Food is not provided for events so you should order food from outside. The reception hall is very spacious and can accomodate around 300 people. Air conditioned. The tables are made out of teak wood, and the overall look is wooden. Around the reception hall there are some craft shops, model ancient houses and characters. Great place to hang out for young parents if you are trying to give your child a touch of sri lankan culture. Situated in a convenient place to access.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Dhanushka W. 2 years ago on Google
    Ape Gama in Sri Lanka is a replica of traditional old day Sri Lankan village. This is located in Battaramulla, close to “Diyatha Park”. Ape Gama displays traditional industries, village life style and how self-sufficient old day Sri Lankan society functions in those days. Formerly, this spot was known as the “Battaramulla Janakala Kendraya” that showcased local crafts. The entire area was revamped for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2013 to exhibit the fascinating aspects of historic Sri Lankan village life, complete with a bird-watching zone and a mini zoo. The outstanding recreation of life in a Sri Lankan village has been achieved with precision and attention to detail. It’s not too far from Colombo, situated at the Jana Kala Kendraya in Battaramulla. From the well kempt garden to the many houses made of mud enclosed with wattles, to the figurines of men and women in many postures, the concept has been brought to fruition with much meticulousness. The simplicity and plainness that typifies village living is showcased in all the exhibits. “Ape Gama in Sri Lanka” attracts throngs of visitors each week seeking a short break in a unique venue.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 avishka h. 1 year ago on Google
    One of a best cultural centre in Colombo suburb. So many cultural activities and items can see near the place. Currently Sri Lankan Army working with this location.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 dishantha d. 4 years ago on Google
    Baththaramulla sri lanka Ape gama Heritage museum is very very beautyfull place.Because deferent environment in Colombo . Can see old village and you can eat some traditional foods. go enjoy and learn something about seylon heritage there builded very ald home, school, and so many things.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hasha S. 1 year ago on Google • 50 reviews
    (Visited and reviewed on 15 June 2023) I love this place due to its uniquely rural Sri Lankan architecture and culture being showcased at this place. Managed by Laksala, the place consists of products all designed by families managing their own small businesses. Hence, this is an awesome potential cultural icon that must be maintained for Sri Lankans and non-Sri Lankans to experience as part of Sri Lanka's unique culture.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Abishek A. 1 year ago on Google • 12 reviews
    That's was supew place mind relaxing and family outing and children playing. it's a biggest natural place ever. who's like to spend time with nature this place is yours.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Prabath S. 11 months ago on Google • 39 reviews
    Can be held office function, birthday parties, aesthetic classes. Beautiful and artistic environment built but not maintained wel.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dinidu S. 5 months ago on Google • 18 reviews
    Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, situated in the heart of the Colombo District, hosts a remarkable cultural and heritage site reminiscent of an ancient rural village. This unique venue, nestled near the Parliament, stands as a testament to Sri Lanka's rich history and traditions. The fusion of cultural authenticity and modern facilities makes it an ideal location for hosting diverse events. Upon entering, visitors are transported to a bygone era, surrounded by architectural marvels that mirror the aesthetics of an ancient rural village. The ambiance reflects the essence of Sri Lankan heritage, creating a captivating backdrop for various occasions. The meticulous attention to detail in preserving cultural elements sets this venue apart, making it an immersive experience for attendees. The site boasts a range of facilities tailored for hosting events of all kinds. Spacious reception halls provide an elegant setting for weddings, conferences, and cultural gatherings. The integration of traditional elements within the infrastructure adds a unique charm, creating an atmosphere that resonates with the cultural roots of the region. Extensive grounds surrounding the venue offer versatile spaces for outdoor events. The lush greenery and well-maintained landscapes provide a picturesque backdrop for celebrations and recreational activities. Whether it's a grand ceremony or a community event, the grounds cater to a myriad of event needs. One of the standout features is the adaptability of the venue to accommodate events of varying scales. The seamless blend of cultural authenticity and modern amenities ensures that the venue can host everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale festivals. In addition to its aesthetic appeal and event-hosting capabilities, the site also plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Sri Lanka's cultural heritage. Educational programs, workshops, and cultural events further enrich the experience, making it not just a venue but a cultural hub. In conclusion, this cultural and heritage site in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte stands as a jewel in the Colombo District. Its commitment to preserving and showcasing Sri Lanka's rich heritage, coupled with its versatile event facilities, makes it a premier destination for those seeking a unique and culturally immersive experience. Whether attending an event or exploring the historical richness, visitors are sure to be captivated by the charm and significance of this extraordinary venue.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 AKALANKA P. 1 year ago on Google
    This place has a sales outset for traditional crafts and workshops with live demonstration of making traditional arts. There is also space provided for conducting music and dancing classes. Facilities are available for conducting meetings and gathering also. There is a large outdoor space with activities like horse cart riding There. Parking is available and free of charge. There is a memorial for fallen Indian Peacekeeping Force members at the entrance of this premises facing the main road.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ajantha H. 4 years ago on Google
    It is an important place, especially for school children. A beautiful place with educational value.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Siraj F. 4 years ago on Google
    Ape Gama in Sri Lanka is a replica of traditional old day Sri Lankan village. This is located in Battaramulla, close to “Diyatha Park”. Ape Gama displays traditional industries, village life style and how self-sufficient old day Sri Lankan society functions in those days.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gayalee L. 3 years ago on Google
    Ape gama so great.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Himantha A. 3 years ago on Google
    Ape Gama provides an insight to the local arts and crafts produced in Sri Lankan traditional industries. It is planned as a model village with buildings constructed in an eco friendly manner, where each section promotes arts specific to an industry. The methodologies used to create a specific craft is also on display. There is ample space to roam about and a tranquil environment adjoining to Diyawannawa Lake. You can also purchase souvenirs for a reasonable price.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 A S M S. 4 years ago on Google
    Ape Gama in Sri Lanka is a replica of traditional old day Sri Lankan village. This is located in Battaramulla, close to “Diyatha Park”. Ape Gama displays traditional industries, village life style and how self-sufficient old day Sri Lankan society functions in those days. Formerly, this spot was known as the “Battaramulla Janakala Kendraya” that showcased local crafts. The entire area was revamped for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2013 to exhibit the fascinating aspects of historic Sri Lankan village life, complete with a bird-watching zone and a mini zoo. The outstanding recreation of life in a Sri Lankan village has been achieved with precision and attention to detail. It’s not too far from Colombo, situated at the Jana Kala Kendraya in Battaramulla. From the well kempt garden to the many houses made of mud enclosed with wattles, to the figurines of men and women in many postures, the concept has been brought to fruition with much meticulousness. The simplicity and plainness that typifies village living is showcased in all the exhibits. “Ape Gama in Sri Lanka” attracts throngs of visitors each week seeking a short break in a unique venue.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dinusha L. 4 years ago on Google
    Best heritage museum in colombo...
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Midhusha S. 2 years ago on Google
    Ape Game is an events venues and heritage museum with rustic village living areas – it’s a simple rural village in the middle of the Colombo metropolis, just outside Kotte. This curios village attracts both locals and tourists who enjoy a glimpse of what Sri Lankan villages were like several decades ago. For a pre-wedding shoot, Ape Gama offers clean lawns and a refreshing village concept.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Onisha Y. 3 years ago on Google
    A replica of a typical village scenario in srilanka
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 ROSHAN 4 years ago on Google
    A best cultural and natural like place near colombo for events.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Kasun Dhananjaya De Z. 1 year ago on Google
    👎👎👎 Not satisfied with maintenance of the place. Washrooms were not maintained and disgusting to use!!!. Immediate attention needed!!! Charges a huge cost for events however minimum facilities were not provided at least. Place was great back in 2017-2019. Must be maintained well as per the high charges. Road condition is also not up to the satisfactory level. Have to commute a long way in a gravel road to access backstage of outdoor auditorium area. No sign boards were placed to show the directions. No lighting to identify the road in the night time even inside the property. Looks like an abandoned property which is not maintaining. They don't have to charge a huge cost like this if the property is not maintained. This place is a shame to Sri Lanka which goes with a name that expresses Sri Lankan rural culture. Not recommended at all.... For everyone who wishes to book the place for your events, pls find another alternative.... 👎👎👎
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Birendra I. 1 year ago on Google
    This place does not operate the way it was designed at the start anymore. It has Laksala retail shop and 2 or 3 handcraft stalls. Renovations underway .Do not recommend for visits until renovations are over. However it has fine facilities for events organization if you like.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Dilini R. 1 year ago on Google
    Ape Gama is an attraction site in Sri Lanka, located in Battaramulla (alongside the Sri-Lanka Japan Friendship Road), close to Diyatha Juana. It depicts a a typical rural village in Sri Lanka, showcasing the traditional village day-to-day lifestyle, the self-sufficient ways of the village in obtaining food, cooking and other activities. There is a section in each village pertaining to a seperate industry, depicting how it was built up in the old days. There are shops inside, where you can buy traditional Sri Lankan arts and crafts and areas to just take a calming walk adjoining the Diyawanna Lake or rest in the "village". It is a peaceful location.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 ruji m. 5 months ago on Google • 26 reviews
    Went for a function..t AC hall was great. With parking etc. Nice environment to see traditional crafts etc.

  • 5/5 Dilan R. 4 years ago on Google
    Best place to get the rural village experience. You can enjoy Sri Lankan traditional foods and sweets.

  • 5/5 Dulaj D. 1 year ago on Google
    This is nice place to host your “Sinhala and Hindu aluth awurudu” festival. I really like the Sri Lankan authentic vibe

  • 5/5 Prasanga P. 2 years ago on Google
    This place locate near Parliament and very calm and silent place. This place has been used for making of tele drama.

  • 5/5 Saajid S. 1 year ago on Google
    Had a corporate event here in the indoor venue and the service and hell of the staff was just amazing and made organising much easier for us.

  • 5/5 Thushara R. 6 months ago on Google
    Traditional old day Sri Lankan village. This is located in Battaramulla, close to “Diyatha Park”. Ape Gama displays traditional industries, village life style and how self-sufficient old day Sri Lankan society functions in those days. Imagine a rural village in the middle of a busy metropolis. This is what “Ape Gama,” which literally means our village, promise its visitors. This curious attraction, that reimagines what Sri Lankan village life was like decades ago, is situated in Sri Lanka’s capital city, across the lake from the Geoffrey Bawa-designed Parliament building. Only minutes away from Colombo’s swanky resorts and shopping centers, “Ape Gama” attracts throngs of visitors each week seeking a short break in a unique venue. Formerly, this spot was known as the “Battaramulla Janakala Kendraya” that showcased local crafts. The entire area was revamped for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2013 to exhibit the fascinating aspects of historic Sri Lankan village life, complete with a bird-watching zone and a mini zoo.

  • 5/5 Dhanushka W. 1 year ago on Google
    A place for activity based corporate functions . Musical evenings . Space available for dancing clases. Adequate parking available . Greenery is very attractive

  • 2/5 Andrew T. 6 years ago on Google
    The place is made like an old village but does not have any explanation of what each house or activity is. You would really need a guide. Otherwise it would be a waste of time walking through this place. The fee for foreigners of Rp 620 includes an English speaking guide. Unfortunately when I went the guide was not there. My advice: Only go in if the guide is available. Otherwise, everything will look the same and you will not understand this village.

  • 4/5 Thilina P. 2 years ago on Google
    Relaxing place near diyawanna oya.cultural monument in the heart of colombo

  • 1/5 Thushara J. 2 years ago on Google
    Very badly maintaining now ☹️

  • 5/5 Osanda Deshan N. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place with village sourrondings and a meusum

  • 4/5 George C. 4 years ago on Google
    Well run great to have people there to explain the old ways but for foreigners wish they had better English skills

  • 4/5 SHIRANTHA F. 2 years ago on Google
    Ape Gama is a historical theme park situated in Battaramulla, close to the “Diyatha Uyana (Diyatha Park)”. The spot was formerly known as “Battaramulla Janakala Kendraya”and was revamped for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2013.

  • 5/5 Laksara J. 4 years ago on Google
    Located at the heart of Colombo ... But it's a magical mystery .... u will really feel ගැමිකම

  • 4/5 Avarjana P. 7 months ago on Google
    Went there for a concert. It’s covered but does not have A/C. Airflow is not the best if you plan to visit on a hot day. Luckily we had rain that day. Seats are not that much comfy but bearable.

  • 4/5 Pasindu P. 3 years ago on Google
    A slice of Sri Lankan culture and some unique shops could be found here.

  • 5/5 WARNA PRODUCTIONs �. 4 years ago on Google
    Good

  • 3/5 Ashan P. 4 years ago on Google
    It gives some sort of idea about ancient village.if you want to truly experience that feeling you would have to go mahiyanganaya.

  • 4/5 Amitha R. 4 years ago on Google
    At Ape Gama, the outstanding recreation of life in a Sri Lankan village has been achieved with precision. And it is not too far from Colombo, situated at the Jana Kala Kendraya in Battaramulla. The simplicity and plainness that typifies village living is showcased in all the exhibits. The houses represent the abodes of people of importance in the village, such as the village Headman, the blacksmith, the weaver, the potter, the medicine man, and the drummer. This is the most relaxing spot to chill in the most busy city of the country. If you want to truly experience that feeling you would have to go mahiyanganaya.

  • 5/5 Kasun R. 4 years ago on Google
    Ape Gama is a living museum theme. It’s located near parliament. Such hand work can be bought at there.

  • 4/5 Malsha R. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Nice thumbs (Original) Nice palce

  • 5/5 Janaka s. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place

  • 4/5 Rivin P. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place.

  • 5/5 Suranga K. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Good for kids & paduru party (Original) Good for kids & paduru party

  • 4/5 Gehan De L. 4 years ago on Google
    Good ambiance, poor acoustics, clean well maintained

  • 4/5 Vajira H. 3 years ago on Google
    nice place.......

  • 4/5 Hashantha H. 3 years ago on Google
    Good place for a village experience

  • 5/5 Rizka M. 4 years ago on Google
    Model village concept. Good learning experience

  • 3/5 Maurycy W. 5 years ago on Google
    An interesting place to visit. Half of the exhibition was closed (mini zoo, earth mound). It's a good stop over to Colombo city centre. It seems that people actually live in the village so it's not just a heritage museum.

  • 5/5 Sasith G. 4 years ago on Google
    Not like as past. But not bad

  • 4/5 Gayan D. 4 years ago on Google
    "Ape Gama" is a replica of old traditional village.its a good learning space for kids.cafeteria ,parking,museum are key attraction points.can spend a half day in peace.lot of items to watch.

  • 4/5 Rohinie P. 4 years ago on Google
    First time I had been there for a felicitation ceremony. Spacious place and I got the feeling of being in rural atmosphere though the location is in an urban area. Parking area is vast and therefore no hassle for looking out for parking areas. Good place

  • 5/5 SachithDS 5 years ago on Google
    Great place.. the people in there lives just as the past people and they explain about the past to us when we go there.. And there is a new place called THE SNAKE HOUSE with snakes..

  • 5/5 Muhammed R. 4 years ago on Google
    Good

  • 5/5 chamindu y. 4 years ago on Google
    Sinhala cultural museum with old tradition.

  • 5/5 Ruvini Kanchana J. 4 years ago on Google
    Good place to visit

  • 5/5 Thilak S. 4 years ago on Google
    Good place

  • 5/5 Tharanga N. 4 years ago on Google
    If you want to study Sri Lankan heritage this is a place you must visit. Additionally you can buy a lot of different types of Cultural/ traditional stuff for a fair price. Most of them are hand crafted by traditional craftsmen.

  • 5/5 Niloufer P. 4 years ago on Google
    Serene

  • 4/5 Sonal De S. 4 years ago on Google
    You can feel the authentic traditional experience

  • 4/5 Indunil W. 4 years ago on Google
    It's a place whete you can experience how the village system of Sri Lanks was organized and operated, in the past.

  • 4/5 tharindu w. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice calming place

  • 4/5 Chamika S. 4 years ago on Google
    Should have better maintenance

  • 4/5 lovsica v. 4 years ago on Google
    A classy place in Colombo, if you like to visit the olden Srilanka and eat some traditional food, this is the best place to go. This is the most relaxing spot to chill in the most busy city of the country.

  • 5/5 Nilu V. 4 years ago on Google
    lot of things to study

  • 5/5 Mohd. Manirul I. 4 years ago on Google
    Historical changes are very nicely organized in this place.

  • 4/5 Chamika I. 4 years ago on Google
    This place like a our traditional village.feel like in a village.best place get a live experience of village life.for school children especially in urban areas will help to get better understading about traditional country life. Restaurants also there with reasonable price .friendly staff.

  • 5/5 kavindu h. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful environment

  • 4/5 Thishan R. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place to do events

  • 5/5 Mahesha C. 4 years ago on Google
    Spacious place with nice environment. 🖤🤘🏻


Call +94 112 785 826 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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