Puttalam between Lagoon and History

Puttalam can be viewed from two distinct perspectives: through Puttalam Lagoon and through a historical account of Ibn Battuta. Both perspectives point to specific local connections, from the lagoon’s regional context to two dated events. For planning your trip, they can help you better understand the character of the destination.

The Lagoon and Puttalam Division

Puttalam Division is one of four administrative divisions around Puttalam Lagoon. There are six lagoon jetties within the division. These two figures refer to different scales: the number four places the division in its geographic context; the number six refers to a specific infrastructure detail. Together, they connect the wider lagoon region with specific lagoon infrastructure within the division.

The relationship between the lagoon and its surroundings is also nuanced. The surroundings of Puttalam Lagoon provide production services in Puttalam Division. The people of Puttalam depend directly on the lagoon for food and livelihoods. Production services and livelihoods therefore coexist, but they do not refer to the same thing: one concerns the lagoon’s surroundings, while the other concerns the population’s dependence on the lagoon itself. When putting the region in context, this distinction is more useful than a general description of the lagoon.

Historical References to Puttalam

A historical account cited by the municipal administration records that Ibn Battuta, from Morocco, came to Puttalam on September 21, 1345. He returned to Puttalam on October 17, 1345. The dates are 26 days apart and mark two distinct points: his arrival and his later return. Both details are relevant to the chronology because they mention Puttalam on two separate dates.

The same account associates the shores of Puttalam with the trade of cinnamon for clothing. The exchange of goods is specified: cinnamon was traded for clothing. This historical perspective therefore goes beyond a simple reference to a journey, noting not only the arrival and return but also a connection between the shores and trade.

The two parts of the historical account serve different purposes: the dates place the arrival and return in chronological context, while the cinnamon trade connects Puttalam’s shores with a specific exchange of goods. When considering the history of the place, you can distinguish between chronology and trade.

Find a Hotel in Puttalam

If you are looking for a hotel in Puttalam, your trip’s focus can be a first consideration. Are you mainly interested in Puttalam Lagoon, its regional context and its importance for livelihoods? Or would you rather focus on the historical account? You can then consider your other requirements for your stay.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Chilaw, Marawila, Wennappuwa, Nainamadama, Kalpitiya, Nattandiya, Alankuda, Norochcholai, Mahawewa, Andigama

For the overarching travel guide: North Western Province.