Ambalangoda Mask Factory and Museum

Mask making is a popular tradition in Sri Lanka.  Ambalangoda is known as a centre for antiques and masks.

At the Mask Museum many types of masks can be seen. Some are more than 200 years old. Most are made from kaduru, a light, pliable wood similar to balsa. After carving, the masks were traditionally sanded using rough leaves or shark skin.

Masks are used for several purposes in Sri Lanka. As well as featuring in traditional dance, drama and comedies, and in large pageants and processions, they are also used in ceremonies to exorcise demons or cure illnesses.

The Museum has a collection of traditional masks & related artifacts, plus a workshop, store & library. The museum also contains several puppets, made from the same type of wood and manipulated with strings. The average height of traditional puppets is around 4 feet, but those representing royalty or nobility are taller and heavier. Puppet shows are accompanied by music on the drum and seraphina, as well as singing.

It is a good museum with explanations in English. Visitors can get a tour from one of the workers who explain the meaning of many different masks, the reasons behind them and the dances that were performed by the wearers. Outside there's a small workshop with a handful of staff carving/painting new masks. Each mask is handmade with incredible attention to detail.

It's a small museum and free to enter although they do appreciate donations, There is a gift shop attached to the Museum with a great variety of wood carvings and masks on sale. They also sell puppets, musical instruments, and key rings.

Ambalangoda Mask Factory and Museum

Open: 8: 30 to 17:30

426 Main Street, Ambalangoda 80300, Sri Lanka