Article by Menul Bandara (Secretary, Natural History and Heritage Society)
On 14 July 2025, Trinity College, Kandy and the Department of Archaeology renewed their collaborative agreement for the continued conservation and management of the Menikdena Archaeological Reserve and Arboretum. This agreement, first initiated in 1994 and reinstated in 2023 after a long pause, reflects a shared commitment to preserving one of Sri Lanka’s lesser-known yet historically rich heritage sites.
The Menikdena Archaeological Reserve and Arboretum, located near Dambulla in the Matale District, sits at the base of Menikdena Mountain. Believed to date back to the early Anuradhapura period (circa 3rd century BCE to 10th century CE), the site contains remnants of ancient monastic architecture and early rural settlement patterns. The surrounding arboretum adds environmental value, offering opportunities for biodiversity conservation and environmental education.
Educating Youth Through Heritage
Trinity’s involvement in Menikdena’s conservation is led by the Natural History and Heritage Society, with the belief that heritage education should extend beyond the classroom. Through field visits, research documentation, and hands-on site maintenance, students learn the value of stewardship while contributing directly to the safeguarding of a national treasure.
The renewed agreement strengthens this partnership, providing continuity for heritage-focused educational programmes and community engagement activities.
A Shared Commitment to Preservation
The renewal was formalised in the presence of Mr Viraj Neranjan Balasuriya, Assistant Director of the Department of Archaeology, along with other officials. Their presence reflected the close collaboration between the Department and the College in preserving Sri Lanka’s cultural and environmental heritage.
This achievement was made possible through the dedicated efforts of many within the Trinity community, including the Principal, Mr Wasana Dissanayake (Director – TCCEI), Mrs Maheeka Jayasekara (TIC), Mrs Manori Abeyrathne, Mr Sahana Vajirasena, and the Committee members of the Natural History and Heritage Society.
As part of ongoing conservation activities, members of the Natural History and Heritage Society recently visited the site for inspection and documentation. More on this visit can be read at:
https://trinitycollege.lk/2025/05/10/in-the-footsteps-of-history-a-visit-to-menikdena-archaeological-site/
Trinity College, Kandy remains committed to heritage preservation, working alongside national authorities to ensure Menikdena continues to be a place of learning, history, and heritage for future generations.
