Where the past meets the present
The western province of Sri Lanka is one of the most vibrant areas of the country. It is the most densely populated area of the country. The province is also home to both the legislative and commercial capitals of the nation. The western province covers an area of 3648 km2. Many parts of the country surrounds this area. The Laccadive Sea is to the west of the province while to the east, one can find the Sabaragamuwa province. The Southern province is in the south and the North Western province is to the north.
The western province is the most diverse province of Sri Lanka. Due to its commercial value, people of many different backgrounds migrate to the province. They live side by side, creating an atmosphere of diversity seen nowhere else in the world. There are three administrative districts within the province: Colombo, Gampaha and Kalutara. Forty Divisional Secretary’s Divisions make up these districts. There are also 2505 Grama Niladhari divisions in the province.
The Commercial Capital
Hub of Shopping
Colombo is the largest destination for the shopping enthusiast. If we talk about street markets, the town of Pettah will definitely give you the Asian bazaar experience you’ve been craving for. Do you want sophistication in your shopping experience? Look no further than Galle Face. The One Galle Face Mall and Paradise Road are the definitive experiences of upmarket shopping you will get in Sri Lanka.
Colombo is a district that defines “past meets present.” Different parts of the district combine influences of contrasting time periods. There is much to see and experience in Colombo. From culinary delights to shopping malls, Colombo has everything a person might desire.
The Center of Mixed Cuisine
Besides the shopping, a person will note that the cuisine found in Colombo is a blend of different tastes and styles. This is because of the interactive multi culture found in the district. People living in Colombo bring with them generations of culinary goodness and share it with their peers. The main cuisine is rice and curry but there are many restaurants that provide both local and foreign fine dining. Since Colombo is a coastal city, you can also expect to have a great time eating exotic seafood.
Sights to Behold!
Being a blend of cultures and time means that Colombo has many places for the sight seers. Colonial buildings of old, museums, art galleries of the finest quality and religious places of high reverence are just some of them. One might argue that Colombo, being a commercial city might not have any natural landmarks but they are wrong. The beach at Mount Lavinia is notoriously famous for its bathing spots. Also, Galle Face offers long stroll in the sunset for the romantics with its half a kilometer stretch of pathway.
Every Facility For Your Need
Colombo has some of the best state-of-the-art facilities in the country. Whether it’s health care, sanitation or transportation anything you need will be provided for you. The entirety of the district has a number of hospitals ranging from Free State hospitals to premium private hospitals. Most hospitals in the district have the absolute best service the nation can provide regardless of who you are.
Transportation is provided by the state as public transportation while independent companies like PickMe and Uber provide excellent private taxi services.
Negombo is the true commercial hub
Gampaha is the second most populous district of Sri Lanka. The capital of the district is the town of Gampaha but Negombo is the true commercial hub of the district. It is also the largest city in the district. The entire district has an area of 1387 km2. The district’s borders are the Ma Oya on the north, Kelani River on the south and a contour line on the east, 1000 ft long.
Religious Sites to Visit
Although Gampaha isn’t the busiest district in the western province, it is still home to two historically important religious sites.
Kelaniya Temple: The Buddha’s Third Visit to Sri Lanka
The Kelaniya Temple is a Buddhist temple within the Gampaha district. The current chief incumbent of the temple is Venerable Professor Kollupitiye Mahinda Sangarakkitha Thera. According to legend, the Kelaniya Temple was graced by the Buddha’s presence during his third and final visit to Sri Lanka. He supposedly sat on the gem studded throne that is treasured within the Kelaniya stupa.
The temple is famous among local and foreign art historians for the murals there. Native artist Solias Mendis painted them, depicting important events in the life of Buddha and the Buddhist community. It is also famous for the image of the reclining Gauthama Buddha.
The Royal Temple of Attanagalla
The Royal Temple of Attanagalla, also known as Attanagalla Rajamaha Viharaya is one of the most famous ancient royal temples in the country. It is historically recognized to be the place where a Bodhisattva (a future Buddha) fulfilled his Dana Paramitha (one of thirty requirements of attaining enlightenment). The temple is a calming, serene place with many impressive pieces of architecture. It has one of the only remaining Watadageya or Stupa houses in the entire nation. The cool wind blowing from the Attanagalla river will cool anyone on the hottest day.
A Sensory Experience
Adventure and Relaxation Intertwined
Kalutara District seamlessly blends the thrill of adventure with the sweet serenity of beachside relaxation. From vibrant water sports to exploring the tranquil mangroves of the Kalu Ganga River, and delving into the history of colonial forts, Kalutara promises a diverse Sri Lankan experience.
Nestled along Sri Lanka's southwestern coast, the Kalutara District invites you into a world of vibrant flavors, lush landscapes, and ancient spirituality. The scent of tropical fruits lingers in the air, the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean lap at golden beaches, and the sacred Kalutara Bodhiya offers a glimpse into the island's Buddhist heritage.
A Taste of the Tropics
Discover a sun-kissed paradise in the Kalutara District. Here, pristine beaches provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation, while coconut groves and fruit plantations offer a taste of true tropical abundance. Explore historical temples, savor the unique flavor of mangosteen, and let the rhythm of Sri Lanka wash over you.
Kalutara Bodhiya
The Kalutara Bodhiya is one of 32 Bo tree saplings that were planted during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa of the Anuradhapura kingdom. It is one of the oldest trees in existence, with the Sri Maha Bodhi being the oldest. The scope of the religious site alone is enough to blow a person’s mind. The temple surrounding the Bodhi tree is impressive. Even more impressive is the fact that the stupa built there can be entered and observed, something which can rarely be seen in the country.
The Kalutara Bodhiya is one of the most visited religious sites of the island especially during the months of May and December. The Kalutara Bodhi Trust, in addition of protecting the religious integrity of the site, also empowers education and health sectors as a non-profit organization.
Kande Viharaya or the Temple on the Mountain
The Kande Viharaya is located on top of a hill near the town of Aluthgama. It is one of the most valued archeological sites in the country.
It is a combination of Buddhist and Hindu cultures found in the country. In contrast to many of the devalas found in the country, the ones in the temple are some of the best there are. The architecture found in the temple are direct descendants of Kandyan era architecture. The murals drawn on the walls of the temple depict Jataka tales and important events of Buddha’s life
COLOMBO | GAMPAHA | KALUTARA
Western Province
