Muthurajawela Marshes
Muthurajawela marshland is a lush green patch in the midst of the city harboring a diverse eco system. It spans across an area of around seven thousand hectares bordering Colombo from the south and Negombo from the north and is closely linked with the Negombo lagoon. It is presumed that in the ancient days the marshland was used for paddy cultivation. Though centuries after, different ethnic groups ranging from the Dutch to British to even the locals tried to cultivate the land and it was unsuccessful. The main reason is being the salty sea water of the Indian Ocean coming inland through the Negombo lagoon during high tide. Though the marshland was an unsuccessful cultivation ground it serves far better purpose through its natural management of the eco system.

The marshland of Muthurajawela is home to thousands of varieties of plants and animal species, some of which are endemic to Sri Lanka. It supports the existence of the Negombo lagoon and thereby indirectly provides employment in areas related to fishery for more than three thousand village youth. It also helps to build nurseries to breed export market prawns and shrimps. The marshland also acts as a basin for urban waste and industrial by products. It controls flooding in the densely populated areas in the western province by absorbing the additional water content. Above all it produces a much needed refreshing green patch amidst a concrete environment.

The numerous benefits received by the existence of Muthurajawela marshland just shows how important it is to protect for the future. Many actions have been taken to sustain it for the future while enjoying its beauty.

Anyone planning on visiting Sri Lanka should definitely pay a visit to this beautiful eco reserve located close to Negombo. Defining standards to the Negombo hotel accommodation the Jetwing Seashells offers its guests excellent services and amenities in a beautiful environment by the sea. It enjoys easy access to the Muthurajawela Marshes and other city attractions.