Nuwarawewa Tank

Nuwarawewa is a large, ancient, freshwater reservoir that was constructed in the first century BC, and forms a part of an interconnected cascading system of tanks located in the Malwatu Oya catchment of the upper Aruvi Aru basin. The multipurpose reservoir is used mainly for irrigated paddy cultivation, though it also supplies water for domestic needs. The tank is located within the ancient city of Anuradhapura, which is an area of high archeological, historical and religious importance.

Padaviya Tank

Padaviya is a recently restored irrigation tank with a maximum depth of 6.7m. The tank is bunded along its northern shore, and is fed by the Makunu and Mora Oyas (seasonal streams) entering in the south. The lake is permanent, but subject to wide seasonal fluctuations in water level with large portions drying out during the dry season. This area is considered an IBA by BirdLife International.

Palatupana Lagoon

A small shallow brackish to saline lagoon used mainly for salt production. Seawater enters mainly by seepage but also over the sand. It opens to the sea through a narrow dune ridge and is surrounded by low scrub woodland, chena plots and isolated rock outcrops. This saltern also serves as an important habitat for a large variety of waders, particularly during the migratory season.