Liked: makes possible a successful bank heist. Disliked: The thoughts of conducting a bank heist :) Use of masks is ingrained in local culture. One is exposed to the real as well as surreal when browsing the factory.

Liked: makes possible a successful bank heist. Disliked: The thoughts of conducting a bank heist :) Use of masks is ingrained in local culture. One is exposed to the real as well as surreal when browsing the factory.
It was interesting to find the history of the masks and to see real artisans making them. These are the real mckoy, not the flat, factory made ones you see all over Sri Lanka
This was not on our itinerary but our guide offered to stop for us to have a look and I am so glad she did. The museum is free and the lady in charge will provide you with information on the history of each exhibition in English. It was very interesting to learn about the masks and the history and...
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This is one of the places that if you're passing by it is worth visiting but isn't a destination on its own. We were passing through Ambalangoda on our way back to Galle and the driver asked if we wanted to visit the museum (glad he did - certainly was a welcome break).
The premises has a museum, a shop...
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Ariyapala is both a museum and shop. The museum was free and definitely interesting, but basically a gimmick to get you to go to their shop and buy their masks. I found a large selection of masks, which were very beautiful, but extremely expensive. I think since they got a good write up in the Lonely Planet, they have decided...
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Admission is free and while there are small signs in the display cases, it is difficult to understand the history of masks and the cultural association without a guide.
Unbeliveable collection of masks not to be seen elsewhere
wow it was great amazing masks on display and they were truly amazing
We visited this delightful museum on the advise of our guide. It was a highly entertaining and informative visit. We saw the whole process of mask making from scratch. The museum educated the kids about the various forms of masks and their significance in the Sri Lankan lives.
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