Uva province

Uva Province is one of Sri Lanka’s nine provinces, located in the southeastern part of the island. Known for its picturesque landscapes, Uva is home to lush green mountains, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. The province is also famous for its tea plantations and agriculture. Despite being one of the least populated provinces, Uva plays a significant role in the country’s economy and cultural heritage.

Geography

Uva Province is bordered by the Central Province to the west, the Southern Province to the southwest, and the Eastern Province to the northeast. To the east, it shares a border with the Northern Province. The province is characterized by its mountainous terrain, with the famous Horton Plains National Park and Buduruwagala being notable landmarks. The Wellawaya area is another important region, offering stunning views of waterfalls and dense forests. Uva Province has a tropical climate, with cooler temperatures in the higher altitudes and warmer weather in the plains.

Demographics

Uva Province has a relatively small population compared to other provinces in Sri Lanka. It consists of a mixture of rural communities and small urban centers. The people in the province are mainly engaged in agriculture, particularly growing tea, rice, and various fruits.

Ethnicity

The majority of people in Uva Province are Sinhalese, making up about 80% of the population. The province also has small communities of Tamils and Muslims. The Sinhalese people in Uva have a strong cultural presence and are the dominant group in the province. However, there are also pockets of Tamil-speaking people, especially in areas near the Eastern Province.

Religion

Buddhism is the most widely practiced religion in Uva Province, with the Sinhalese population primarily following the Buddhist faith. In addition, there are small numbers of Hindus, Muslims, and Christians in the region.

Administrative Divisions

Uva Province is divided into two districts: Badulla and Moneragala. These districts are further subdivided into smaller administrative units called Divisional Secretariats. Badulla is the provincial capital and is known for its tea industry and scenic landscapes. Moneragala, located in the southeast, is known for its agriculture and is considered a less developed part of the province.