Southern Province, Sri Lanka

The Southern Province is one of the nine provinces of Sri Lanka, serving as a significant administrative region in the country. The province gained its status as an administrative entity following the 13th Amendment to the Constitution of Sri Lanka in 1987, establishing provincial councils as a legal framework.

Geography and Administrative Divisions

The Southern Province encompasses three districts: Galle District, Matara District, and Hambantota District. These districts are further divided into administrative units known as divisional secretariats, which originated from the historical feudal counties or korales and ratas.

Major Cities

Galle: Known for its rich history and the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle is a crucial economic and cultural hub of the province.
Matara: Positioned on the southern coast, Matara serves as a pivotal city for commerce and education, offering access to scenic beaches and the ancient Dondra Head Lighthouse.
Hambantota: Emerging as a key urban center, particularly with the development of the Hambantota Port and the adjacent Ruhunu Magampura Mahinda Rajapaksa International Port.

Economy

The economy of the Southern Province is predominantly based on agriculture and fisheries, with significant contributions from tourism due to its picturesque landscape and cultural heritage. The province is also home to a number of tea and rubber plantations, which are part of the country's traditional agricultural exports.

Culture and Heritage

The Southern Province is rich in cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites, temples, and colonial-era architecture. The province is famed for its vibrant festivals and traditional dances. The Kataragama festival attracts devotees from various parts of the country and beyond.

Transportation

Transportation infrastructure in the Southern Province has seen significant improvements with the development of the Southern Expressway, Sri Lanka's first expressway, enhancing connectivity between the province and the capital city, Colombo.

Education

The province hosts several educational institutions, ranging from primary schools to higher education facilities. Institutions like the University of Ruhuna contribute significantly to the educational landscape by offering diverse programs and specialized research opportunities.