Belilena Cave

Belilena Cave, located near Kitulgala in Sri Lanka, is a significant archaeological site known for its evidence of prehistoric human activity dating back to 32,000 years ago. The site is associated with the Balangoda Man, a subspecies of Homo sapiens known for occupying high-altitude territories. Archaeological excavations have revealed a wealth of cultural and faunal remains, including bone tools, microlithic stone tools, and evidence of trade networks in salt dating back to 30,000 years ago. The cave also provided early evidence of substantial structures in South Asia with rubble foundations dating to 16,000 years ago. Declared an Archaeological Reserve, the site offers invaluable insights into prehistoric life and human evolution in the region.