Honoring History: Exploring the British commonwealth Cemeteries of Kandy

 British Cemetaries in Kandy- Sri Lanka

About

formerly known as Pitakande Military Cemetery, it was taken over by the Commission as a permanent war cemetery after first being purchased by military officials.

The Army Graves Service moved war graves from Divatalawa Boer Military Cemetery to this cemetery, along with graves from Divatalawa Camp Cemetery, Diyakaduwa Cemetery, and Bandarawala in the Punjab; additionally, graves from these locations were moved to Galkissa General Cemetery, Ihala Vitiyala Burial Ground, Kandy Civil Cemetery, Kollonawa Burial Ground, Kotagala Forest Creek Cemetery, Mahaiyawa Cemetery, Murugampola Cemetery, Rawatawatte General Cemetery, Moratura; additionally, graves from Tibotugoda Etakorasa Cemetery and Trincomalee Hindu and Buddhist Cemetery.

A navy veteran whose grave was known to be in the cemetery but whose exact location could not be determined is honored by the Special Memorial. "Buried near this spot" is superscribed on it. This location honors 196 Commonwealth burials from the 1939–1945 conflict and 1 Commonwealth burial from the 1914–1918 war. Two non-World War II and four foreign national funerals are also present.

How to reach cemetery 

Traveling from Colombo to the Commonwealth War Cemetery in Kandy requires using a train and local transportation. Here is a broad overview.

Via Train:

Train from Colombo to Kandy:

From Colombo Fort Railway Station, take a train to Kandy Railway Station. Depending on the train type, the trip takes between 2.5 and 3.5 hours and provides beautiful views of the Sri Lankan countryside.

Through Local Transit from Kandy

From the train station in Kandy:

You can take a local bus or rent a tuk-tuk to go to the Commonwealth War Cemetery once you are in Kandy.

The cemetery is a well-known sight in Kandy; therefore, most cars will be familiar with it. Tuk-tuks are easily accessible.

Via Bus:

As an alternative, you can get to a stop close to the Commonwealth War Cemetery via local bus, which leaves from the Kandy Bus Station.

taxi:

To go directly to the Commonwealth War Cemetery, you can take a taxi or use a ride-sharing service if you'd rather have a more convenient and direct choice.

Things to do in British cemetery. 

The Commonwealth War Cemetery in Kandy is a solemn and historical site dedicated to the memory of those who sacrificed their lives during World War II. While the atmosphere is reflective and respectful, visitors can engage in meaningful activities. Here are some things you can do at the Commonwealth War Cemetery in Kandy:

Pay Your Respects:

Take a moment to pay your respects to the servicemen and women who are buried or commemorated at the cemetery. This is the primary purpose of the site, and observing a moment of silence is a common practice.

Read Inscriptions:

Walk through the cemetery and read the inscriptions on the gravestones and memorials. Gain insights into the stories and backgrounds of those who served during World War II.

Photography:

Capture the peaceful and well-maintained surroundings of the cemetery. Photography can serve as a way to remember and share the significance of the site.

Attend Commemorative Events:

Check if there are any commemorative events or ceremonies happening at the cemetery. These events are often held on significant occasions such as Remembrance Day and provide an opportunity to participate in a collective tribute.

Learn about History:

Take the time to learn about the history of the cemetery and the role of the Commonwealth forces during World War II. There may be information panels or guides available to provide context.

Reflect in Silence:

Spend some time in quiet reflection. The serene atmosphere of the cemetery encourages contemplation and introspection.

Visit the Chapel:

If there is a chapel on-site, consider visiting. Many war cemeteries have chapels with memorial plaques and additional information about the fallen.

Respect the Graves:

Be mindful and respectful of the graves and memorials. Avoid any activities that may disrupt the peace and solemnity of the cemetery.

Leave a Symbolic Gesture:

Consider leaving a symbolic gesture such as a small flower or a token of remembrance at a memorial. This is a personal way to express your respect.

Share the Experience:

Share your experience with others, whether through conversations, writing, or social media. Raising awareness about the significance of war cemeteries contributes to remembrance efforts.

Support Preservation Efforts:

Inquire about any preservation or restoration efforts taking place at the cemetery. Supporting these initiatives helps maintain the historical integrity of the site.

Remember that the Commonwealth War Cemetery is a place of reflection and remembrance. Approach your visit with a respectful and contemplative attitude, honoring the memory of those who served.

picture gallery 

How British commonwealth Cemeteries can create as a major tourist attraction highlighted on sustainability.

Achieving a sustainable tourism experience at British Commonwealth Cemeteries requires striking a balance between the historical relevance of the sites and ethical tourism activities. The following are some methods to emphasize sustainability:

Instructional Initiatives:

Provide educational activities that enlighten visitors about the significance of the cemetery and provide them with historical context. Draw attention to the wartime sacrifices made by individuals honored in the cemetery.

Provide guided tours led by informed guides who are able to impart historical details, anecdotes, and the significance of the cemetery to the local community. Stress the importance of acting politely when visiting.

Community Involvement: Assist the neighborhood in maintaining and preserving the cemetery. Provide locals the chance to work as tour guides, caregivers, or in other tourism-related positions.

Digital Preservation:

Use technology for digital preservation efforts. Create virtual tours, interactive exhibits, or augmented reality experiences that allow visitors to engage with the history of the cemetery in a sustainable and innovative way.

Visitor Education:

Provide information to visitors about sustainable practices, such as respecting the sanctity of the site, following designated paths, and avoiding any activities that could disturb the surroundings.

Regular Monitoring and Evaluation:

Regularly monitor and evaluate the impact of tourism on the cemetery and its surroundings. Implement and enforce regulations to address any issues and adapt strategies as needed to maintain sustainability.

By integrating these strategies, British Commonwealth Cemeteries can become sustainable tourist attractions, ensuring that the historical significance is preserved while minimizing the environmental and cultural impact of tourism

Bibliography

Cwgc (no date) Kandy War Cemetery: Cemetery details, CWGC. Available at: https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2009501/kandy-war-cemetery/ (Accessed: 17 November 2023).

Amazinglanka (2023b) Kandy Commonwealth War Cemetery, AmazingLanka.com. Available at: https://amazinglanka.com/wp/kandy-war-cemetery/ (Accessed: 17 November 2023). 

Kandy War Cemetery (no date) Tripadvisor. Available at: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g304138-d3676172-Reviews-Kandy_War_Cemetery-Kandy_Kandy_District_Central_Province.html (Accessed: 17 November 2023).

World War II (2023) Encyclopædia Britannica. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/event/World-War-II (Accessed: 17 November 2023).

British ceylon (1796–1900) (no date) Encyclopædia Britannica. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/place/Sri-Lanka/British-Ceylon-1796-1900 (Accessed: 17 November 2023).