Walauwa Manor Houses — The Aristocratic Heritage

The Walauwa (වලව්ව) is the traditional aristocratic manor house of the Govigama Radala families — grand homes that served as seats of power, centers of culture, and symbols of prestige for centuries.

What is a Walauwa?

A Walauwa (also spelled Walawwa or Walauva) is the ancestral manor house of a noble Govigama Radala family. These were not merely residences — they were the administrative, cultural, and social centers of their respective districts. The owner of a Walauwa was typically a Dissawa, Rate Mahatmaya, or other high-ranking official who governed the surrounding territory.

Architectural Features

Traditional Walauwa architecture is a unique blend of indigenous Sinhalese, Kandyan, and colonial (Dutch/British) influences:

• Meda Midula (මැද මිදුල) — The central open-air courtyard, which served as the heart of the house, providing light, ventilation, and a separation between public and private spaces
• Pila (පිළ) — Ornately carved wooden pillars supporting the roof
• Ambalama-style verandahs — Open-sided sitting areas for receiving visitors and conducting official business
• Steep tiled roofs — Using traditional Sinhalese clay tiles
• Intricate woodwork — Doors, windows, and ceilings featuring elaborate carvings of lotus flowers, lions, elephants, and geometric patterns
• Large estates — Surrounding gardens, paddy fields, and sometimes coconut or cinnamon plantations

Famous Walauwa Houses

Ehelepola Walauwa, Kandy

One of the most famous Walauwa in Sri Lanka, associated with the Ehelepola Nilame family. Located in the heart of Kandy, this historic residence has been restored and now serves as a cultural landmark. The dramatic story of Ehelepola’s family — executed by King Sri Vikrama Rajasinghe — makes this one of the most historically significant buildings in the country.

Maduwanwela Walawwa, Sabaragamuwa

Located in the Sabaragamuwa Province, the Maduwanwela Walawwa is one of the grandest surviving manor houses. Built by the Maduwanwela Rate Mahatmaya family, it features a spectacular Meda Midula, ornate pillars, and expansive grounds. It is now maintained as a heritage site.

Horagolla Walauwa, Attanagalla

The ancestral home of the Bandaranaike family, one of the most important political families in Sri Lanka. This is where S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike (Prime Minister) was raised, and where his daughter Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga (President) spent part of her childhood. The Walauwa represents the political legacy of the Govigama aristocracy.

Other Notable Walauwa

• Pilima Talawe Walauwa — Associated with the powerful Pilima Talawe family
• Molligoda Walauwa — Home of the last Maha Adigar
• Medamulana Walauwa — Ancestral home of the Rajapaksa family in the South

Preservation Efforts

Many Walauwa have fallen into disrepair over the decades, but there are growing efforts to preserve these irreplaceable heritage buildings. Several have been converted into boutique hotels (like The Wallawwa near Colombo airport), cultural centers, or museums. The preservation of these structures is vital — they are tangible connections to the Govigama community’s aristocratic past and architectural heritage.