15LMD Villa in Front of the Lagoon

The Mannankulam Experience: Unveiling Authentic Sri Lankan Heritage Born from the heart of Sri Lanka's East Coast, Mannankulam passionately preserves our island's heritage – culture, history, food, nature, and art – for future generations. We offer comfortable, deeply immersive cultural journeys through personally curated itineraries. Discover Sri Lanka's East Coast and Colombo, exploring stunning landscapes in off-the-beaten-path locations. You'll delve into compelling history, contemporary art, unique architecture, diverse nature, and a culinary tradition few have ever encountered. Each experience includes a stay in a meticulously selected personal home, a unique culinary offering, and engaging moments with art, architecture, nature, culture, and history. Our Extraordinary Villas: A Living History of Sri Lankan Architecture Our collection of villas embodies the evolution of Sri Lankan architecture. From elegant 19th-century colonial homes to charming 1950s country houses, vibrant 1960s tropical designs, and the contemporary genius of Anjalendran (who collaborated with Geoffrey Bawa), our dwellings offer a rich, living tapestry of design. Staying with us allows intimate engagement with Sri Lanka's diverse regions. Our properties in picturesque Akkaraipattu and historic Batticaloa (East Coast), plus Colombo and Battaramulla (West Coast), are your ideal base for unforgettable exploration. Book your Mannankulam Experience and discover the soul of Sri Lanka.

Unveiling 15LMD: A Timeless Escape with Unrivalled Fort Views Welcome to 15LMD, a distinguished heritage property that stands as a testament to centuries of history in Batticaloa. Built in the late 18th century as a Dutch administrator's house, and later enhanced during the British period, this residence proudly retains its original charm with very few modern interventions. Our expansive verandah is the crown jewel, offering what is arguably the best view in Batticaloa: an unobstructed panorama of the magnificent Dutch Fort across the tranquil lagoon. Picture this: the very scene you behold today is remarkably similar to what navigators witnessed in the 17th century, save for a modern cell tower in the far distance. Envision sloops and "thonis" (traditional canoes) ferrying goods and guarding the waters, rather than the grand VOC ships. 15LMD offers more than just accommodation; it's an immersive historical experience where the past comes alive.

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.