Districts
Sri Lanka is divided into 25 districts, each governed by a District Secretary and further subdivided into Divisional Secretariats and Grama Niladhari Divisions. These districts are organized into nine provinces, reflecting the island’s rich cultural and geographical diversity.
Districts
Sri Lanka is divided into 25 districts, each governed by a District Secretary and further subdivided into Divisional Secretariats and Grama Niladhari Divisions. These districts are organized into nine provinces, reflecting the island’s rich cultural and geographical diversity.
Districts
Sri Lanka is divided into 25 districts, each governed by a District Secretary and further subdivided into Divisional Secretariats and Grama Niladhari Divisions. These districts are organized into nine provinces, reflecting the island’s rich cultural and geographical diversity.
Districts
Sri Lanka is divided into 25 districts, each governed by a District Secretary and further subdivided into Divisional Secretariats and Grama Niladhari Divisions. These districts are organized into nine provinces, reflecting the island’s rich cultural and geographical diversity.
Districts
Sri Lanka is divided into 25 districts, each governed by a District Secretary and further subdivided into Divisional Secretariats and Grama Niladhari Divisions. These districts are organized into nine provinces, reflecting the island’s rich cultural and geographical diversity.
Colombo District
Colombo is the commercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka by population. According to the Brookings Institution, Colombo metropolitan area has a population of 5.6 million, and 752,993 in the city proper. It is the financial centre of the island and a tourist destination. It is located on the west coast of the island and adjacent to the Greater Colombo area which includes Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, the legislative capital of Sri Lanka and Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia. Colombo is often referred to as the capital since Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte is within the urban area of, and a suburb of, Colombo. It is also the administrative capital of the Western Province and the district capital of Colombo District. Colombo is a busy and vibrant city with a mixture of modern life, colonial buildings and monuments.
Due to its large harbour and its strategic position along the East–West sea trade routes, Colombo was known to ancient traders 2,000 years ago. It was made the capital of the island when Sri Lanka was ceded to the British Empire in 1815, and its status as capital was retained when the nation became independent in 1948. In 1978, when administrative functions were moved to Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, Colombo was designated as the commercial capital of Sri Lanka.
Like many cities, Colombo's urban area extends well beyond the boundaries of a single local authority, encompassing other municipal and urban councils such as Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte Municipal Council, Dehiwala Mount Lavinia Municipal Council, Kolonnawa Urban Council, Kaduwela Municipal Council and Kotikawatte Mulleriyawa Pradeshiya Sabha. The main city is home to a majority of Sri Lanka's corporate offices, restaurants and entertainment venues.
Famous landmarks in Colombo include: Galle Face Green, Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo Racecourse, Beira Lake, Mount Lavinia beach, Planetarium, Dehiwala Zoological Garden, University of Colombo, Nelum Pokuna Theatre, Colombo Lotus Tower, National Museum
Districts of Sri Lanka
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Ampara DistrictA district rich in agriculture, Ampara offers pristine beaches, historical Buddhist sites, and a diverse cultural landscape.
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Anuradhapura DistrictOne of the ancient capitals, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich with historic Buddhist monuments and temples.
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Badulla DistrictBadulla is a scenic district surrounded by mountains, tea plantations, and stunning waterfalls, offering a peaceful retreat.
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Batticaloa DistrictKnown for its lagoons and beaches, Batticaloa is a serene district with a rich blend of Tamil and Muslim culture.
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Colombo DistrictSri Lanka’s bustling commercial capital, Colombo is a vibrant metropolis known for its urban landscape, colonial architecture, and coastal beauty.
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Galle DistrictA historic coastal district, Galle is famous for its UNESCO-listed Dutch Fort, pristine beaches, and rich colonial history.
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Gampaha DistrictA district blending urban and rural life, Gampaha is home to the Katunayake Airport and scenic beaches.
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Hambantota DistrictKnown for its wildlife parks, including Yala and Bundala, Hambantota is a growing hub of development and eco-tourism.
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Jaffna DistrictThe cultural center of Tamil heritage, Jaffna is known for its historic temples, vibrant culture, and rich history.
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Kalutara DistrictKnown for its historic Kalutara Bodhiya and beautiful beaches, Kalutara offers coastal charm and religious significance.
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Kandy DistrictFamous for the Temple of the Tooth and its stunning lake, Kandy is the cultural heart of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Kegalle DistrictKegalle is known for its rubber plantations and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a popular tourist attraction.
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Kilinochchi DistrictA primarily agricultural district, Kilinochchi has seen rapid post-war development and is home to numerous water resources.
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Kurunegala DistrictFamous for its elephant rock, Kurunegala is an agricultural hub surrounded by historic ruins and religious sites.
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Mannar DistrictFamous for its unique landscapes, pearl fisheries, and the historic Mannar Fort, this district has a rich maritime history.
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Matale DistrictA district filled with spice plantations, waterfalls, and historic temples, Matale offers scenic natural beauty.
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Matara DistrictMatara boasts stunning beaches, the Dondra Head lighthouse, and a mix of coastal and cultural attractions.
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Monaragala DistrictKnown for its rugged landscapes and rich biodiversity, Monaragala is an agricultural district with vast natural beauty.
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Mullaitivu DistrictA largely rural and coastal district, Mullaitivu is known for its beaches and significant history during the civil conflict.
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Nuwara Eliya DistrictOften called "Little England," Nuwara Eliya is renowned for its cool climate, tea plantations, and colonial architecture.
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Polonnaruwa DistrictPolonnaruwa is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, including the famous Gal Vihara, and a key archaeological site.
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Puttalam DistrictPuttalam is known for its coastal lagoons, wildlife sanctuaries, and salt production, along with a growing wind energy sector.
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Ratnapura DistrictThe "City of Gems," Ratnapura is famous for its gem mining and lush green landscapes filled with waterfalls and tea estates.
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Trincomalee DistrictA coastal gem, Trincomalee is home to beautiful beaches, historic Hindu temples, and one of the world’s finest natural harbors.
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Vavuniya DistrictA key transit hub between the north and south, Vavuniya is known for its agriculture and growing urbanization.