These photographs shows what is known today as the Kotte Tunnels (‘Kotte Umang Margaya’). It is situated within the premises of the Ananda Sasthralaya school, just beyond the Pita Kotte junction, towards the church of St. Thomas. It is found outside the limits of the old city. It is believed to be the exit from a complex of tunnels that originated from within the inner city. It is said that Alakeshvara built two tunnels from the fortress to exit to Pita Kotte. Some believe that it was part of the quarry that was used to source the ‘kabok’ needed to build the city and the ramparts.
Prasad Fonseka lists the above complex as a tunnel junction, where the two tunnels meet, and also allows one to go further and exit at a place near the current Kotte Raja Maha Viharaya. A deep ditch then allowed the people to move out unobserved.
Additional Photographs:
(a) The overall view of the cave & tunnel complex (2003).
(b) The inside of the cave or tunnel entrance, with the supporting column.
(c) Decorative work on top of the north entrance to the cave.
Location Map – (No 9):
