Central Province of Sri Lanka
The Central Province (Sinhala: මධ්යම පළාත Madhyama Paḷāta, Tamil: மத்திய மாகாணம் Maddiya Mākaṇam) is one of the nine provinces of Sri Lanka, known for its picturesque landscapes and historical significance. The province occupies an area of 567,400 hectares (1,402,000 acres) and hosts a population of approximately 2.4 million, making it the second most populated province in the country. It is renowned for its role as the heart of the Sri Lankan highlands.
Geography and Climate
Central Province is characterized by its rugged mountainous terrain, which includes the central highlands and Horton Plains. The province is bordered by the North Central, Sabaragamuwa, Uva, and North Western provinces. It features a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, influenced by the southwest and northeast monsoons.
Historical Significance
The province is home to the ancient Kingdom of Kandy, the last Sri Lankan kingdom to succumb to colonial powers. Despite European invasions by Portugal, the Netherlands, and Britain from the 16th to the 19th centuries, Kandy maintained its sovereignty until the British conquest in 1815. The province's historical sites include the Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Central Province boasts four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Sacred City of Kandy, Dambulla Cave Temple, and the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka. These sites highlight the rich cultural and natural heritage of the region.
Administration
Under the 13th Amendment to the Constitution of Sri Lanka, the Central Province was granted a provincial council in 1987, providing a measure of self-governance. The modern administrative structure replaced the colonial Mudaliyar system, with governance now undertaken by locally elected officials.
Economy
The province's economy is predominantly driven by agriculture, particularly the cultivation of tea, which thrives in the high-altitude areas. The region also benefits from tourism, with visitors drawn to its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The city of Hatton is a key center for the tea industry.
Education
Central Province is home to numerous educational institutions, including prestigious schools and universities. The University of Peradeniya, located near Kandy, is one of the leading universities in Sri Lanka.