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The Muthurajawela wetland ecosystem is situated in the middle of one of the most densely populated and economically important urban areas in the country. It spreads from the Negambo Lagoon to the Kelani River, encompassing the Ragama and Peliyagoda areas. The integrated coastal ecosystem formed by the marsh and the Negambo lagoon complex covers over 6,000 ha. In recognition of its importance 1777 ha from the northern section of the Muthurajawela marsh was declared a sanctuary in 1996 under the Flora and Fauna protection ordinance. The location of the marsh in a rapidly expanding urban area makes it extremely vulnerable. For those who are living stressful urban lifestyles and are looking for a place to get away from it all, the Muturajawela marsh offers the perfect escape. Just a short distance from many major towns on its periphery, the marsh not only offers a noise-free environment but provides the ideal opportunity to get to know the flora and fauna of one of the country's very special areas. The best way to explore the marsh is by boat. Not only will day trippers enjoy the green and tranquil surroundings that permeate this area, but will come in close contact with its vegetation and life lurking beneath. 192 species of flora is found in the marsh, including seven major vegetation types such as reeds, grasses, shrubs, and mangrove forest, among others. The marsh is also home to 40 species of fish, 14 species of amphibians, 31 species of reptiles of which the estuarine crocodile is one, and 48 species of butterflies. Among the 22 species of mammals recorded here are fruit bats, the slender loris, the fishing cat, the mouse deer and otters. For bird watchers, the marsh provides exciting sighting opportunities of egrets, kingfishers, moor hens, cormorants, purple herons, black bitterns, lesser whistling teals, and Indian pond herons that are among the 102 species of birds recorded here. The Muthurajawela Visitor Centre offers a guided boat trip that sets off from the 16th century Dutch canal and goes up to Dandugam Oya and Negambo lagoon. Floating through the narrow waterways of the marsh dense with mangrove forests and spotting birds, butterflies and reptiles slithering in the water is definitely the highlight of the journey, in a true river excursion into the wild. Be rejuvenated after a stay at the Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions that offers wellness treatment packages tailored to suit individual requirements. At this key Sri Lanka Ayurveda hotel guests can consult the in-house Ayurveda physician and experience specially formulated treatments that include spa therapies, yoga and meditation, as well as special diets. Stay at this spa hotel Sri Lanka to take advantage of a series of Ayurveda programmes aimed at fostering the well being of mind, body, and soul. Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+
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