Bogoda Wooden Bridge, Wooden footbridge in Bandarawela, Sri Lanka
Bogoda Wooden Bridge is a wooden footway crossing the Gallanda Oya river with a roof structure and traditional construction methods. The narrow structure links two riverbanks entirely from timber.
This bridge was constructed during the Dambadeniya period in the 16th century and was an important link between Badulla and Kandy towns. It served on an ancient route that enabled trade and travel between these regions.
The bridge displays craftsmanship from the Kandy Kingdom era, with decorated wooden railings showing traditional Sri Lankan patterns and designs. Visitors notice these historical design details when crossing the structure.
The best time to visit is in early morning when temperatures are more comfortable and the river is calm. The terrain around the bridge can be slippery, so wear sturdy footwear and walk slowly.
The entire structure was built without metal nails - every element uses different timber species like jackfruit, kumbuk, kaluwara and milla trees. This technique demonstrates ancient craftsmanship methods rarely seen today.
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