Badulla district

Badulla district is one of the districts in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka. It is known for its stunning landscapes, and diverse communities. This district offers a unique glimpse into the culture and traditions of Sri Lanka, surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and tea plantations. It is known as බදුල්ල දිස්ත්රික්කය (badūlla distrikkaya) in Sinhala and பதுளை மாவட்டம் (baduḷai Māvaṭṭam) in Tamil.

History

Badulla has a long and storied history that dates back thousands of years. Ancient tribes first settled in this area, and it later became a busy town during the reign of King Walagamba in the 1st century BC. Still the cave where King Walagamba was hiding is located in this district. During the colonial period, the Portuguese, Dutch, and finally the British took control of the region, each leaving their mark on Badulla. The British established tea plantations, which became the backbone of the local economy. Badulla was also an important military outpost and had significant strategic value during these times.

Geography

Badulla district lies in the southeastern part of the Uva Province. It is bordered by the Eastern, Central, and Southern provinces. The district shared borders with Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Matale, Rathnapura, Monaragala and Ampara. The landscape is mainly hilly and is home to some of the highest mountains in Sri Lanka. This district experiences a cooler climate compared to other parts of the country, with frequent rainfall that nourishes its fertile soil. Major rivers, such as the Uma Oya and Loggal Oya, flow through the district, supporting agriculture and providing water for the communities.

Administration

The Badulla district is divided into several administrative units to manage its resources and local government functions effectively. These units include 15 Divisional Secretariats (DS Divisions) and 567 Grama Niladhari Divisions (GN Divisions).

Cities and Towns

Badulla district hosts several cities and towns, each with its own charm and significance. Badulla town is the capital of the district and serves as the central hub for commerce and transportation. It has many historical sites, schools, and government offices. Other notable towns include Bandarawela, which is famous for its pleasant climate and beautiful scenery, and Haputale, which offers breathtaking views of the southern plains of Sri Lanka. Ella is another popular town, known for its tourist attractions like the Ella Gap and Ravana Falls. Mahiyangana is famous for arrival of Buddism and early settlement.

Demographics

Badulla is home to a diverse population. According to recent statistics, the district has a mix of different ethnic groups, including Sinhalese, Tamils, and Moors. The Sinhalese are the majority, while Tamils and Moors make up significant minorities. This mix of ethnicities contributes to the district’s vibrant cultural mosaic. Religion in Badulla reflects its ethnic diversity. Buddhism is the predominant religion, followed by Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity.

Notable Information

Badulla district is not only known for its rich culture and history but also for its contributions to Sri Lanka’s economy. Tea, vegetable, and paddy farming are major economic activities. The district’s tea estates are some of the oldest in the country and produce high-quality Ceylon tea.

Education is a priority in Badulla, with many schools providing education from primary to advanced levels. It houses the Uva Wellassa University.

In terms of tourism, Badulla offers many attractions for visitors. The Nine Arches Bridge and Diyaluma Falls are just a couple of the stunning sites that attract tourists from around the world. The district’s natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect destination for those looking to explore the less-traveled parts of Sri Lanka.