GAMANA The Edwardian mansion also known as Richmond Castle is an old mansion located about 4km away from Kalutara town by the side of Kaluthara, Palathota main road. The northern boundary of this land is the famous river Kalu and the south end is Kaluthara Palathota main road. This wonderful place at once takes your mind about a hundred years back. If anyone needs to experience Indian architecture in Sri Lanka, this is the best place.
This marvelous castle is believed to have been built in 1900 by one mudliyar called Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardana. This building that was totally designed by Indian architecture has used some extraordinary devices that would even fit today’s society. The timber and bathroom fittings are said to have been brought from India and England while some other building materials were from Nepal. This big structure with sixteen rooms 99 doors 34 windows and a two-way wooden staircase bears evidence of the marvelous architectural feats of Indians. Some of the furniture can still be seen in its original state. Behind the castle adjoining the main building is a line of small rooms that were used by the laborers of the mansions.
The front hood of the house is on some beautifully carved pillars. It adds a proud look to the mansion. The garden or the big compound has been constructed in two layers. An enchanting pond with spring has been constructed abolishing the loneliness of the compound. There are a number of creations everywhere in the compound. That would beautify the castle. At present this huge mansion is maintained by a public trustee.
