The Ibbankatuwa tomb site was first identified in 1970 by the Archaeological Department who carried out the Radiocarbon dating of the remnants found in the site have revealed that these tombs dated back to 700 – 400 B.C.Currently the tomb site has been designated as an archaeological protected site in Sri Lanka.
The tomb complex covers an area of about 1 km2 (0.39 sq mi) with 42 clusters of tombs and each cluster contains about 10 tombs. Each tombs are enclosed with four stone slabs and covered by another slab on the top. According to the way of interment two distinct burial customs, urn (bodies were placed in urns and interred) and cist (ashes of deceased were interred) have been identified.
Cremated remains with grave goods and tools used by deceased have been found at the site in large terra-cotta urns and cists as well as in the area between the cists. The finds include variety of clay pots, iron, copper and gold artifacts, beads, necklaces, etc. The gemstones found in some necklaces are not naturally found in Sri Lanka which indicates that they may have been imported.
- Time of departure: Any time you can vist, But better early in the morning or evening
- Mode of Travelling – By Bicycle, By Tuk Tuk, By Vehicle
- Travel Duration: Depend on mode of travelling . But less than ½ an hour
- Tour Duration: 1.5 hours
- Distance from the hotel: 5 km from Hotel premises
- Tour inclusions: Water, juice and driver and Guide Optional
