Hambantota district

Hambantota District is one of the 25 districts in Sri Lanka. It is located in the Southern Province. The district has become an important part of Sri Lanka due to its strategic location and new infrastructure projects. Hambantota is home to beautiful beaches, wildlife, and growing industries. It is known as හම්බන්තොට දිස්ත්‍රික්කය (hambantoṭa distrikkaya) in Sinhala and அம்பாந்தோட்டை மாவட்டம் (Ampāntōṭṭai Māvaṭṭam) in Tamil.

History

Hambantota has a long and fascinating history. Ancient texts suggest that this area was a key trade hub for local and international merchants. During ancient times, Hambantota’s natural harbor attracted traders from India, China, and the Arab world. They brought spices, silk, and other goods. It was a major port during the kingdom of Ruhuna, one of the ancient Sri Lankan kingdoms.

During colonial rule, the Portuguese, Dutch, and British controlled Hambantota at different times. Each colonial power left its mark. The British built roads and administrative offices, which influenced the district’s development. After Sri Lanka’s independence in 1948, Hambantota remained a mostly rural district. However, recent years have seen rapid development with projects like the Hambantota International Port and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport.