Malaka Premawardhana

5.0

Visiting the Dambana Wedi Gammanaya Museum was one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had while travelling around Sri Lanka. This is not just another museum – it feels like stepping into the living world of the Vedda community, the island’s first indigenous people. From the moment you enter, you sense the simplicity and authenticity of the place. The displays are not overly polished or commercialized, and that’s exactly what makes it special. You see their hunting tools, traditional weapons, clothing, and everyday items that tell the story of a community that has lived in harmony with nature for centuries. What touched me most was the opportunity to listen to the Vedda elders share their stories. Their humility, warmth, and deep connection to the forest make you reflect on how much of our own culture we’ve forgotten. The traditional dance demonstration was another highlight – raw, rhythmic, and full of life. This is a place that reminds you that Sri Lanka’s heritage goes far beyond what we usually see in textbooks. If you’re visiting Mahiyanganaya, don’t skip this. Go with an open mind and a bit of time to truly absorb the experience. Highly recommended.

Chathura Lakmal

5.0

This village is located about 2km from the main road. Access road is bit difficult close to the village. I think they have not developed it to keep the anciet look of the village. This is one the the few places where sri lankan indigenous people called vedda live. But today they have changed their lives with the technology but atleast they will act and show you how they used to live in the past. There are old houses, museum and information center in the village. There is a restaurent also but that does not fully functional. There is no entrace free to the village but to enter the museum you have to take a ticket. Otherwise you have to pay for the vadi people if you want to show them theor skills like dances, hunting using arrow bow and arrow, making fire using stones etc. You can try some activities by yourself like shooting using bow and arrow. There are ample space for parking. Vadda people sell different things but i doubt about the authenticity of them. You can spend few hours here.

MMH Ahammed

5.0

Authentic Cultural Experience with Unique Handmade Products I visited Dambana Vedda Village last Monday and had an unforgettable experience. It was inspiring to learn about the Vedda community’s traditional way of life, their deep connection with nature, and their cultural heritage. The villagers were very friendly and eager to share their stories, customs, and daily practices. One of the highlights was seeing the variety of organic and handmade products they sell—everything from natural honey to handmade crafts. It’s a great way to support the community while taking home something meaningful and eco-friendly. The quality of these items reflects the authenticity and care they put into their work. The peaceful surroundings and genuine hospitality made the visit even more special. I highly recommend this place to anyone interested in Sri Lankan indigenous culture and responsible tourism.

Prasad Lokubalasuriya

5.0

Dambana is a remote jungle village of indigenous people renowned for its eco-tourism prospects, situated about 300km from Colombo, Sri Lanka. The Veddas (indigenous people) preserve a direct line of descent from the island’s original Neolithic community dating back from at least 18,000 BC. Joining the Veddas of Sri Lanka in their village gives visitors a unique opportunity to get a firsthand experience of the Vedda culture which remains relatively untarnished by modern technology and commercialization. The Veddas are devoted to their traditions and our guests get to meet with Uruwarige Wanniyalatto, Chief of the Veddas.

Navindu Wijesekara

3.0

(August 2025) Visited Dambana Wedi Gammanaya, but the museum was closed to the public as it is under renovation. The surrounding area wasn’t very clean or well maintained, and there wasn’t much to see in terms of attractions. However, the highlight of the visit was the chance to meet the Chief, Uruwarige Vanniyala Aththo, at his home. Visitors can also buy handmade ornaments and crafts from the community, which adds some cultural value to the experience.