Lanka Mangrove Museum

As part of the new education reforms aimed at familiarizing children with the environment, the Halawatha Pradeshiya Sabha area has selected the Lanka Mangrove Museum as a learning site for environmental studies programs for preschool children.

Accordingly, the first group visited the museum today. During their visit, the children were shown environmental awareness videos and were given a three-hour hands-on experience within the museum premises, allowing them to observe, explore, and enjoy the natural environment in a meaningful and engaging way. School Children Begin Environmental Learning Journey at the Lanka Mangrove Museum

On 20 January 2026, postgraduate student N. K. Abeyasinghe, along with her research team from the University of Ruhuna, visited the Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center to carry out field research in the Pambala Lagoon area. This research is conducted under the supervision of Prof. Sunanda Kodikara, a respected academic and one of the scientific members of the Museum.

During the visit, the research team engaged in data collection and field observations related to mangrove ecosystems, with the full support and guidance of the museum staff. As always, the Museum Director and staff extended their assistance by facilitating access to research sites, sharing local knowledge, and ensuring a productive field experience for the students.

On 17 January 2026, a research student visited the Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center to collect field data as part of an academic study focused on mangrove ecosystems in Sri Lanka. The research aims to identify and analyze the differences between mangrove species found in the Negombo and Chilaw areas.

During the visit, the student conducted detailed measurements of key physical characteristics of mangrove trees, including leaf length and size, tree height, and trunk diameter. These measurements are essential for understanding how mangroves adapt to different environmental conditions in each location.

The study also seeks to identify the reasons behind these observed differences, examining factors such as salinity levels, soil conditions, water availability, and other ecological influences that affect mangrove growth and structure. By comparing data from Negombo and Chilaw, the research hopes to highlight how local environmental conditions drive specific adaptations in mangrove species. Research Study on Mangrove Variations Between Negombo and Chilaw

On 16th January 2026, small groups Community Visitors from Chilaw, Arachchikattuwa, Mahawewa, and Madampe visited the Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center. Unlike organized institutional field visits, these visitors came independently after learning about the museum through social media and the official website.

Their visits are highly encouraging, as they reflect growing public awareness and appreciation of mangrove conservation efforts. The interest shown by these community members highlights the impact of effective outreach and the importance of sharing conservation work with a wider audience. Such engagement motivates the museum to continue its mission of protecting mangrove ecosystems while educating and inspiring the public.

On 14th January, a visitor from Ireland visited the Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center. She was fascinated by the well-curated exhibits and expressed her admiration for the overall setting and excellent maintenance of the museum. During her visit, she showed great interest in learning about mangrove ecosystems, conservation efforts, and the important role mangroves play in protecting coastal environments. The visitor highly appreciated the dedication of the museum staff in preserving and presenting valuable environmental knowledge in an engaging and informative manner.