15LMD is a heritage property dating from the late 18th century. It was originally built during the Dutch period as an administrator's house. It has been subsequently re-built/renovated during the British period. The house retains all original features and has minimal renovation to maintain the historic character. The verandah has the best view of the Dutch fort overlooking the lagoon. In the late 16th and early 17th Century, the Danes, as well as the Dutch started coming to Ceylon. This made the Portuguese nervous and it was then that they built a fort in Batticaloa - not the stone construction that is there now but more sandbanks and clay mounds. In 1638, the Portuguese were displaced by the Dutch and Batticaloa was the first fort to be taken over by the Dutch. The view you see from the verandah of the Dutch fort is unchanged from the 17th century (you may have to ignore a cellphone transmission tower in the distance though). At that time there would have been a couple of sloops (single-masted) rather than the three-mast VOC sailing ships plus any number of "thonis" (the canoes) which were used for transporting goods as well as used for protection carrying 2-3 small cannons.

The area is central and very close to the market and Batticaloa town. The market is very lively and is well worth a visit. You could go there with Ranjan and choose your own fish to be cooked for your dinner if you wish! The historic Dutch Fort dating from 1704 is just opposite and a short walk away. Right next door to 15LMD, is a bright green building that looks like a mosque. This is not a mosque but an auliya or resting place of a Sufi saint. There is an annual festival. Further South, when you go towards Gal Oya, Dighavapi is a Buddhist shrine dating from around 3BC and was probably part of the Ruhuna Kingdom. You can see other ruins further south at Magul Maha Vihara, close to Pottuvil.