Hundred ships can anchor per day in Hambantota

The Hambantota port, which lies close to a main sea route, is the only location in the Indian Ocean where 100 ships can anchor per day, according to experts. The 20-metres-deep port can cater to large ships which need deep anchorage and berthing facilities.    The then Hambantota port was the place where Chinese ships cast anchor and moored in the days of the silk route, according to chronicles.

The port fell into disuse after Ruhuna ceased to be an important centre for trade and commerce. Even the British used it as a sea port as is evident from parts of the jetty, the customs house, lighthouse and other constructions associated with the port.