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ADVOCACY AND REPRESENTATION THROUGH TRAVEL AT IBBANKATUWA HISTORIC MEGALITHIC BURIAL SITE

 #Accessible #tourism highlights the importance of representation for persons with #disabilities in the #travel industry, encouraging the development of services and facilities that cater to diverse needs.

• By #advocating for accessible travel, individuals with disabilities contribute to positive changes in industry and society at large.

In summary, travel and accessible tourism for persons with disabilities promote #inclusivity, equal opportunities, economic empowerment, education, and overall well-being. It plays a crucial role in creating a more #diverse and understanding society.

#Manique Gunaratne created the opportunity for a group of persons with diverse disabilities to visit the #Ibbankatuwa Historic #Megalithic Burial Site in Dambulla in March 2024.

Ibbankatuwa is located on the left bank of the Dambulu Oya. This is an ancient burial site and is considered as one of the oldest burial sites in the country. 

The proto-historic period is also known as the Iron Age.  This time is very important in the cycle of human evolution, since it underwent massive changes due to the introduction of the use of fired clay utensils made on the potter’s wheel, metal implements and the introduction of proper agriculture back date the human livelihood. It is reported that the burial site here is over 2700 years old. Even before the Lord Buddha was born.

The site had been identified as far back as 1970 by the Dept. of Archeology and since then, quite a few excavations had been done to unearth the history that was lying under the layers of soil. Radiocarbon dating of the remains had shown that the tombs date back to 600 BC. What had once been the backyard of a house some years ago, has become one of the most important historical sites for the study of our forefathers and their beliefs.  The tombs are spread over an area of 13 hectares and there are 10 tombs. Each tomb is enclosed with four stone slabs with another capstone on top to cover. The remains of the dead have been identified as belonging to two distinct burial customs. Cist – where the ashes of the deceased were interred Urn – where bodies were placed in urns and interred Along with the multiple urns, goods used by the deceased have been found in large terra-cotta urns and cists, like Egyptian burial customs.


A group of six adults walking in an outdoor, rustic setting with dirt paths, shaded by trees. Three women are in the foreground, two of them assisting each other as they step down a low stone ledge. One woman is wearing a bright red top, while the other two wear a cream dress and a green t-shirt respectively. Behind them are two more women in light-colored dresses walking together. A man in a light shirt and trousers stands a bit further back, near a blue van parked at the edge of the area. There is a small hut with a thatched roof partially visible to the left. The ground is uneven, made of packed dirt and stone, and dappled with sunlight and shade.

A group of people standing indoors, looking at a display of ancient clay pots and jars. The pottery items, which appear old and weathered, are placed on a raised platform and supported by metal stands. The people seem engaged and interested, with one woman gesturing towards the artifacts. There is greenery visible outside through the open section of the wall, suggesting that the display is in a partially open area or pavilion. The atmosphere is casual and the group seems to be on a tour or educational visit.

Group of people sitting and standing outdoors, with a traditional hut in the background. There are eight women sitting on a stone bench, and two men standing behind them. The people are dressed in casual clothing—some are wearing colorful outfits and sandals. The area is surrounded by trees, giving a natural, shaded look. The women in the front row are smiling and appear relaxed, suggesting a friendly or family gathering. The ground is covered in light brown dirt, and the sunlight is dappled through the leaves.

A group of nine people are standing together outdoors on a dirt path, surrounded by greenery and trees. The group includes both men and women, all casually dressed, and most are smiling or looking relaxed. In the background, there are tall trees and some wooden structures, creating a pleasant, natural setting. Sunlight filters through the trees, adding warmth to the scene. The group appears to be enjoying a leisurely moment together.


#Manique Gunaratne

Member of the #Internet #Society #Accessibility #Standing #Group Leadership Team


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