The beautiful Kantale Dam is found in the district of Trincomalee in Sri Lanka. It is 14,000 ft (4,267 m) long, and over 50 ft (15 m) high. It boasts of a vibrant history and possesses incredible beauty so it certainly should be included in your travel itineraries in the region.
The tank is believed to have been built by King Aggabodhi II of Anuradhapura. It is believed that the dam was developed further by King Parakramabahu the Great too. The old dam was called by the name Gangathala Vapi.
The majestic reservoir has a catchment area of 216 square kilometers.ย The tank has a capacity of 135 million cubic metres as well. The dam impounds the Per Aru, a small river discharging into the Koddiyar Bay, at Trincomalee Harbour.
Tragedy unfolded in the region on the 20th of April 1986, when the Kantale dam breached. The adjoining village was lost in the great flood of water. 120-180 people lost their lives that day and over 1,600 houses were also destroyed. The dam was rebuilt later on.
You can get in touch with Green Holiday Centre if you desire to visit this incredible place as you are embarking on tours in the region.
