New Kallady Bridge

New Kallady Bridge

New Kallady Bridge was built by the British back in the past. It is Sri Lanka’s oldest and longest iron bridge. The name of the British Governer’s wife was given to the bridge. The bridge is also called the Lady Manning Bridge.

About the location

Kallady Bridge was built connecting the suburb of Kallady to the main city of Batticaloa. It is a unique bridge that is written in gold in the history of Sri Lanka. It was a major route where 10,000 vehicles pass by on average. Thus it became the oldest bridge in Sri Lanka that accommodates a high number of vehicles.

Later in 2013, the authorities took steps to make a new, better, wider bridge so that it can accommodate more vehicles. As a result, the New Kallady Bridge was built. It is 288 meters long and 16.5 meters in width.

The story behind New Kallady Bridge

There is a legend stating that singing fish can be heard from below the bridge. In the past, people have stated that they have heard fascinating sounds and they believe it to be singing fish. Much researches have been done but up to date, there is nothing that states about the singing fish. Though it is a famous tourist site in Batticaloa.

Reaching the destination

From Colombo

Go on McCallum Road and T. B. Jayah Mawatha to Maradana Road. Take Colombo – Katunayake Expressway.

Take Veyangoda Road, Ekala – Kotadeniyawa road to Ambepussa – Kurunegala – Trincomalee Highway.

Then follow Ambepussa – Kurunegala – Trincomalee Highway and take Elahera – Giritale Road. Go on Trincomalee Highway to Colombo – Batticaloa Highway to reach your destination.

From Batticaloa

Head south toward Trincomalee Highway. Turn left at Yamaha Plaza. onto Trincomalee Highway. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Bar Road. At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Baily Road.

At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Colombo – Batticaloa Highway to reach your destination.