Kegalle district

Kegalle district is one of the districts in Sri Lanka. It is known for its history, and natural beauty. It sits in the Sabaragamuwa Province and is a place where tradition and progress blend seamlessly. It is known as කෑගල්ල දිස්ත්‍රික්කය (kǣgalla distrikkaya) in Sinhala and கேகாலை மாவட்டம் (Kēkālai Māvaṭṭam) in Tamil.

History

Kegalle has a deep historical background that dates back to the pre-colonial era. The district is mentioned in ancient texts and has been a significant area throughout Sri Lanka’s history due to its strategic location and resources. During the colonial times, Kegalle was an important center for the resistance against British rule. The district also played a vital role during the Kandyan Kingdom era, serving as a hub for local chieftains and a battleground during uprisings against colonial powers.

Geography

Geographically, Kegalle is notable for its varied landscape that includes lowlands, midlands, and highlands, providing a home to diverse flora and fauna. The district is bordered by the districts of Kurunegala to the north, Ratnapura to the south, Matale to the east, and Gampaha & Colombo to the west. Its terrain is mainly hilly, dotted with numerous waterfalls and rivers, which make it a picturesque and fertile area for agriculture. Key natural attractions include the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, which is an important conservation site.