Giant’s Tank / Yoda Wewa

The Story of Giant’s Tank / Yoda Wewa

Giant’s Tank, known locally as Yoda Wewa, is one of the largest and most ancient reservoirs in Sri Lanka, situated in the Mannar District of the Northern Province. While tradition traces its origins back to the reign of King Dhatusena in the 5th century, historical accounts also suggest that improvements were made during the Anuradhapura and medieval periods. Later, under British rule in the 1880s, the tank was restored and expanded into the massive irrigation reservoir visible today, covering nearly 4,500 hectares. This transformation made it one of the most vital irrigation projects in the dry zone, sustaining paddy cultivation and farming communities in Mannar.

A Glimpse into the Past

Much like the ancient tanks of Anuradhapura, Yoda Wewa reflects the ingenuity of Sri Lanka’s early hydraulic civilization. Colonial engineers such as Henry Parker, who studied Sri Lanka’s irrigation marvels, noted its scale and efficiency. Its design was meant not only to collect and store seasonal rainfall but also to channel water from the Aruvi Aru river. For centuries, this ensured food security and prosperity in the dry Northern plains.

Giant’s Tank Today

Even after over 1,500 years, Giant’s Tank continues to serve its original purpose—supplying water to vast agricultural lands. It supports around 24,000 acres of paddy fields and sustains the livelihoods of thousands of farmers in Mannar. Beyond agriculture, the reservoir and its surrounding wetlands form a vital ecological zone. It has become a refuge for wildlife, particularly for migratory and resident birds such as ducks, herons, egrets, and the rare spot-billed pelican. The area is now recognized as a proposed bird sanctuary, highlighting its ecological significance.

Exploring Mannar and Yoda Wewa

A visit to Giant’s Tank offers more than just a view of an irrigation marvel—it’s an experience in history, culture, and nature. Travelers can combine their visit with explorations of Mannar’s attractions, including the historic Mannar Fort, Baobab Tree, and Thiruketheeswaram Temple. Reaching Yoda Wewa from Colombo typically involves the scenic route via Anuradhapura and Medawachchiya, leading into Mannar. The tranquil waters, vast landscapes, and flocks of birds provide a serene setting, making it an ideal stop for heritage explorers and nature enthusiasts alike.