Matara district

Matara district is a beautiful and historic region in southern Sri Lanka. It is known for its scenic beaches, lush greenery, and ancient landmarks. Located about 160 kilometers from Colombo, Matara serves as a key center for culture, trade, and tourism in the Southern Province. It is known as මාතර දිස්ත්‍රික්කය (Mātara distrikkaya) in Sinhala and மாத்தறை மாவட்டம் (Māttaṛai Māvaṭṭam) in Tamil.

History

Matara district has a deep and fascinating history. In ancient times, it was known as “Maha Thota”, meaning “Great Ferry”, because it was a major crossing point on the Nilwala River. The area has been influenced by multiple kingdoms, including Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kotte.

During the colonial era, Matara was occupied by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. The Portuguese constructed the famous Matara Fort in 1560, which still stands today as a symbol of the region’s colonial past. The historic Star Fort, built in 1765 by the Dutch, is another iconic structure.

The Matara rebellion of 1761 was a significant event when local leaders revolted against Dutch rule. The district played a key role in Sri Lanka’s fight for independence and later became an important administrative and cultural hub in the Southern Province.

Geography

Matara is bordered by the Hambantota District to the east and Galle District to the west, and Ratnapura to the north. To the south lies the Indian Ocean, giving Matara its stunning coastal beauty.

The Nilwala River, one of the longest rivers in Sri Lanka, flows through Matara, enriching the land and providing water for agriculture. The district features both flat plains and hilly regions. The inland areas are lush with forests, paddy fields, and tea plantations, while the coastline is dotted with sandy beaches and rocky outcrops.

Prominent natural landmarks include the Polhena Beach, famous for its coral reefs, and Dondra Head, which is the southernmost point of Sri Lanka.