The Sri Lankan government, under the Marxist JVP-led National People’s Power (NPP) administration, is moving forward with plans to transform the historic Bogambara Prison in Kandy into a tourism development site.
Minister Nalinda Jayatissa recently announced that Expressions of Interest (EOIs) will soon be invited for the project, which envisions converting the site into a hub for tourism, cultural, and entertainment activities.
Located in the heart of Kandy, Bogambara Prison is a protected heritage site under the World Heritage Conservation Act.
The prison complex, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest, was previously renovated by the Urban Development Authority (UDA), enhancing its potential as a tourist attraction.
According to Minister Jayatissa, the government aims to lease the site for 50 years, inviting tourism investors to submit proposals that align with both commercial viability and heritage preservation.
However, the plan to lease the property rather than sell it outright reflects the complex status of Bogambara as a heritage site.
While some officials, including former Minister of Urban Development Prasanna Ranatunga, had proposed transferring the property to the Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth Relic) at cost recovery, the current administration appears focused on maximizing its commercial and cultural value through a long-term lease arrangement.
Ranatunga, during a parliamentary advisory committee session, had stressed the need to either recover the public funds spent on renovations or hand the site over for an appropriate investment initiative.
The proposal to transfer the site to the Dalada Maligawa aimed to preserve its cultural and religious value, but it has now given way to the government’s broader economic development goals under the NPP’s vision.
From a viability perspective, converting Bogambara Prison into a tourism site presents several advantages. Its location in the cultural capital of Kandy, close proximity to major attractions such as the Dalada Maligawa, and its architectural uniqueness offer strong appeal to both domestic and international tourists.
Furthermore, the government’s intention to attract proposals that demonstrate financial, environmental, and social potential indicates a desire for responsible and sustainable development.
However, potential investors must navigate challenges tied to heritage regulations and community sensitivities. The prison’s historical significance and symbolic value mean that any development must strike a careful balance between commercialization and preservation.
In conclusion, leasing the Bogambara Prison for tourism development appears to be a viable strategy, provided that it respects the site’s heritage status and garners community support. By leveraging private investment through a structured and regulated process, the government could unlock the site’s potential while ensuring long-term cultural and economic value for Kandy.
