Kadugannawa rock tunnel and captain Dawson tower in Srilanka

The fascinating history of this rock tunnel dates back to 1880 when British rulers were in control of Sri Lanka. At that time, traveling from Colombo to Kandy posed quite a challenge due to numerous hill-forts obstructing the route.

The British officials frequently visited Kandy, where the King resided, and needed a more straightforward way to reach the hill country. To address this, British engineer Mr. Davidson applied his expertise to create this remarkable tunnel.

Today, the tunnel is located along the main road from Colombo to Kandy, though it is no longer in use. Nevertheless, it has become a significant tourist attraction, drawing both locals and visitors who stop to admire its historical significance.

Dawson tower under renovation

Captain Dawson was the brilliant engineer behind the construction of the Colombo-Kandy Highway A1 in 1820, during the tenure of Governor Edward Barnes. To honor his remarkable contributions, the Dawson Tower was erected alongside the road in Kadugannawa.

Standing at an impressive 125 feet, this striking white tower resembles a lighthouse and serves as a tribute to Dawson's exceptional engineering skills. Tragically, he passed away from a snakebite before the tower could be completed.

In its earlier days, the tower welcomed visitors to explore its interior and enjoy panoramic views from the top. However, for safety and maintenance reasons, access is now restricted, making it a fascinating landmark to admire from the outside for those touring the area.