Ampara

Avatar photo hashini sandeepani
July 28, 2025
15 min read

Ampara is a vibrant district located in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, celebrated for its cultural diversity, pristine coastline, and historical significance. Home to Sinhalese, Tamil, and Muslim communities, the area is a living mosaic of traditions and festivals. Ampara's landscape varies from golden beaches and lagoons to lush paddy fields and ancient ruins. Popular attractions include the Gal Oya National Park, known for its boat safaris, and the historic Deegavapi Stupa. With its unique blend of nature, heritage, and local hospitality, Ampara offers an enriching experience for those looking to explore Sri Lanka’s eastern charm.

Total Population

750,000

GN Divisions

100

Where Coastal Beauty Meets Cultural Harmony

Ampara – The Eastern Crossroads of Nature and Heritage

Nestled in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, Ampara is a district known for its rich biodiversity, cultural diversity, and agricultural strength. With an estimated 2025 population of over 700,000, Ampara combines serene rural life with coastal beauty and historical significance.

Diverse Landscapes and Natural Attractions

From golden beaches and coastal lagoons to fertile plains and dense forests, Ampara is home to a wide range of natural wonders. The Gal Oya National Park is especially popular for its boat safaris and wildlife, while the serene Senanayake Samudraya reservoir adds to the region’s ecological charm.

Agricultural Vitality and Rural Economy

Agriculture is the backbone of Ampara’s economy, with vast rice fields, sugarcane, and vegetable cultivation supporting thousands of families. The region plays a significant role in Sri Lanka’s food production and agrarian development.

Cultural Coexistence and Religious Landmarks

Ampara is a vibrant mosaic of ethnic groups including Sinhalese, Tamils, and Muslims. This diversity is reflected in the peaceful coexistence of mosques, temples, and churches, as well as in the district's many cultural and religious festivals.

Education, Health, and Public Services

The district offers a growing network of schools, technical colleges, and medical facilities, supporting both urban and rural populations. Government institutions and local initiatives work together to enhance the quality of life and regional development.

Transport and Regional Access

  • 🚗 By Road: Ampara is well connected to major cities like Batticaloa, Monaragala, and Colombo via A-class highways.
  • 🛫 By Air: The nearby domestic airport at Ampara (Gal Oya) provides limited but growing air access.

A Gateway to the East

With its blend of natural splendor, cultural depth, and agricultural strength, Ampara stands as a dynamic district offering a truly Eastern Sri Lankan experience.

GN Code Name in English
005Ridee Ela
010Bakmeedeniya
015Dehiattakandiya
020Kadirapura
025Mawanagama
030Lihiniyagama
035Serupitiya
040Sadamadulla
045Sandunpura
050Paranagama
055Ihalagama
060Nawa Medagama
065Wewmedagama
005Galode
010Palathuruwella
015Pulungasmulla
020Serankada
025Unapana
030Hagamwela
035Kirawana
040Padiyathalawa
045Thalapitaoya Left
050Saranagama
055Pallegama
060Moradeniya
065Thalapitaoya South
070Holike
075Kehelulla
080Miriswatta
085Kolamanthalawa
090Dorakumbura
095Marangala
100Komana
005Bogamuyaya
010Tempitiya
015Poolawala
020Bedirekka
025Unuwathura Bubula
030Eddapola
035Thapelpola
040Mahaoya
045Samagipura
050Borapola
055Kelavinna
060Dambadeniya
065Kekirihena
070Kudaharasgala
075Lahugala
080Pollebedda
085Aranthalawa
005Piyangala
010Nugelanda North
015Nugelanda South
020Bakkiella
025Rajagalathenna South
030Rajagalathenna North
035Gonagolla
040Galapitagala West
045Galapitagala East
050Kothmale
055Mayadunna
060Nawagiriyawa
065Bandaradoowa
070Lathugala
075Bokkabedda
080Kohombana
085Walgampura
090Weeranketagoda
095Senagama North
100Senagama South
105Gonagala
110Veheragama East
115Veheragama West
120Gamunupura
125Siyambalawewa
130Rajagama North
135Rajagama South
140Suhadagama North
145Suhadagama South
150Kumarigama
155Komariya
160Udagirigama West
165Udagirigama East
170Galahitiyagoda
175Mahakandiya
180Kahatagasyaya
185Welikahagolla
190Dematamalpelessa
195Uhana
200Uhana Thissapura West
205Uhana Thissapura East
210Udayapura
215Sandanadapura
220Weeragoda North
225Weeragoda South
230Dadayamthalawa West
235Dadayamthalawa East
240Vijayapura East
245Vijayapura West
250Kumudugama
255Ruhunugama
260Buddhangala
265Bridge Camp
270Himidurawa
275Abhayapura
005Dambethalawa
010Samapura
015Karangawa
020Gemunupura
025Thissapura
030Nawagampura
035Senanayakepura
040Jayawardhanapura
045Indrasarapura
050Mihindupura
055Saddhathissapura
060Kotavehera
065Paragahakele East
070Paragahakele West
005Akkaraipattu 7/2
010Akkaraipattu 7/1
015Kolavil South
020Kolavil North
025Alayadivembu Central
030Akkaraipattu 7/5
035Wachchikuda
040Kannakikiramam 01
045Aligambai
050Akkaraipattu 7/4
055Akkaraipattu 7/3
060Akkaraipattu 7
065Akkaraipattu 8
070Sinnamugathuwaram
075Kolavil 03
080Navatkadu
085Kolavil 02
090Kolavil 01
095Panamkadu
100Sinnapanamkadu
105Kannakikiramam 02
110Alayadivembu
005Keenawatta
010Muwangala
015Galmaduwa
020Uksiripura
025Helagampura
030Karalewa
035Hingurana
040Diviyagala
045Padagoda
050Pahalalanda
055Hindakalugama
060Kalugolla
065Dewalahida
070Koknahara
075Moragahapallama
080Damana
085Alahena
090Madawalalanda
095Madana
100Eggaloya
105Kethsirigama
110Galkanda
115Pallanoya
120Kivulegama
125Thimbirigolla
130Ambalanoya
135Veheragala
14018A . Janapadaya
145Thottama
150Kumana
155Wadinagala
160Pannalgama
165Bakmitiyawa
005Thambattai 2
010Thambattai 1
015Thambiluvil 1 West
020Thambiluvil 1 East
025Thambiluvil 1 South
030Sagamam
035Thambiluvil 2 West
040Thambiluvil 2 North
045Thambiluvil 2 East
050Thirukkovil 3
055Thirukkovil 1
060Thirukkovil 2
065Vinayagapuram04
070Vinayagapuram-01
075Vinayagapuram-02
080Thirukkovil 4
085Kanchirankuda
090Kanchikudiyaru
095Vinayagapuram-03
100Sangamankiramam
105Thandiyadi
110Thangavelayuthapuram
005Sangaman Kandy
010Sinna Ulla
015Sinna Puthukudiruppu
020Victor Estate Unit 2
025Vattivelly
030Victor Estate Unit 1
035Razak Moulana Nagar
040Sarvothayapuram
045Pothuvil 02 - Unit II
050Kundumadu
055Pothuvil 01 - Unit II
060Pakkiyawathe Unit 2
065Pasarichchenai
070Pottuvil Town
075Pakkiyawatta Unit 1
080Komari Unit 02
085Komari unit 01
090Kalappukattu
095Jalaldeen Square
100Hithayapuram Unit 2
105Hithayapuram Unit1
110Kanakar Kiramam
115Hijra Nagar
120Pottuvil 01 - Unit I
125Madhuranchenai
130Inspector Etham
135Pottuvil 02 - Unit 1
005Kandahindagama
010Hulannuge West
015Hulannuge
020Lahugala Peranigama
025Lahugala
030Dewalagoda
035Pansalgoda
040Panama West
045Shasthrawela
050Panama Central
055Panama North
060Panama South

📞 Public Services – Ampara

Service Contact Number Additional Info
🚓 Ampara Police Station +94 63 22 222 61 Maintains public order and provides law enforcement services in Ampara town
🏥 Ampara General Hospital +94 63 22 223 31 Major healthcare facility providing inpatient, outpatient, and emergency services
🏛️ Ampara District Secretariat +94 63 22 223 00 Handles administration, disaster management, and development programs
ℹ️ Municipal Council – Ampara +94 63 22 222 41 Manages urban planning, sanitation, and local public services
🏣 Main Post Office – Ampara +94 63 22 222 81 Provides mail, courier, and financial transaction services

🕰️ Best Time to Visit Ampara, Sri Lanka

The best time to visit Ampara is during the dry season from May to September, when the weather is sunny and ideal for exploring beaches, wildlife parks, and cultural landmarks. These months offer the most pleasant conditions for outdoor activities and nature tourism.

From May to July, coastal areas like Arugam Bay come alive with surfers, nature lovers, and travelers seeking pristine shorelines and vibrant seaside communities.

The months of August and September provide slightly cooler temperatures and less crowded attractions—great for visiting inland temples, paddy fields, and national parks like Gal Oya.

December to March can also be pleasant, though occasional rainfall may occur. The landscape remains lush, and it's a good time for birdwatching and eco-tourism activities around reservoirs and forests.

🌧️ Avoid: the October to early November monsoon, when heavy rains may disrupt travel plans, flood low-lying areas, and hinder access to some natural attractions.

For a culturally rich experience, plan your visit around local events like the Muslim Ramadan and Eid celebrations, Tamil and Sinhala New Year festivals, or traditional temple processions in rural villages.

How to Reach Ampara

Located in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, Ampara is accessible via major road networks and nearby rail links. While the town does not have direct train access, travelers can reach it by bus, private vehicle, or connecting from Batticaloa or Badulla. The scenic drive reveals coastal lagoons, paddy fields, and local villages en route.

📍 City 📏 Distance ⏱️ Time 🗺️ Route
Batticaloa ≈ 60 km ≈ 1h 30m
Colombo ≈ 360 km ≈ 7h
Monaragala ≈ 90 km ≈ 2h

🌍 Interactive Google Map

🌄 Geographical Overview – Ampara

Ampara is situated in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, serving as the administrative center of the Ampara District. It lies approximately between 7.30°–7.35° N latitude and 81.65°–81.70° E longitude, located on flat to gently undulating terrain near the eastern coast.

The area has an average elevation of about 30–50 m (98–164 ft) above sea level, characterized by vast agricultural plains, wetlands, and irrigation reservoirs that support paddy cultivation and other crops.

Ampara experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, with annual rainfall averaging around 1,200–1,600 mm. Temperatures typically range from 26–32 °C, with a warm and humid atmosphere throughout the year. The dry season coincides with the northeast monsoon, while the southwest monsoon brings moderate rains.

The district is rich in natural water bodies, including large tanks and rivers, fostering biodiversity and agricultural productivity. Surrounding ecosystems include dry zone forests and scrublands, home to diverse wildlife.

This geographical setting positions Ampara as a vital agricultural hub in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, with growing potentials for agro-based industries, fisheries, and eco-tourism.

💼 Local Economy and Services – Ampara

The economy of Ampara is primarily driven by agriculture, fisheries, and livestock farming. Major crops include paddy, maize, sugarcane, and coconut, supported by extensive irrigation schemes and favorable climatic conditions.

Ampara’s location near key highways and proximity to coastal areas enhances trade, transportation, and access to regional markets. Small and medium enterprises, retail shops, and service sectors contribute significantly to local livelihoods.

Essential public services such as educational institutions, government administrative offices, healthcare facilities, and cooperative societies support community well-being and socio-economic development.

Development efforts focus on upgrading irrigation infrastructure, road networks, and electricity supply, alongside initiatives promoting sustainable fishing and agro-processing industries to strengthen Ampara’s economy.

🤝 Community and Culture – Ampara

The community of Ampara is culturally diverse, comprising mainly Sinhalese, Tamil, and Muslim populations, living together with a strong tradition of tolerance and coexistence.

Cultural life revolves around religious festivals and rituals such as Vesak, Ramadan, and Thai Pongal, which bring people together through traditional music, dance, communal feasts, and prayers, celebrating the rich multicultural heritage of the region.

Traditional crafts, weaving, and artisanal skills are practiced alongside agricultural livelihoods. Local folklore, storytelling, and the preservation of languages enrich the social fabric and identity of the Ampara community.

Residents take pride in their diverse cultural heritage and natural environment, fostering community ties that promote harmony, resilience, and shared respect for traditions and nature.

🎉 Festivals & Culture – Ampara

Ampara celebrates a rich blend of festivals reflecting its multicultural community. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year (Avurudu) is widely observed with joyous gatherings, traditional games, and special foods that bring people together across ethnic lines.

Islamic festivals such as Ramadan and Eid hold significant importance, featuring communal prayers, feasting, and charitable activities, highlighting the deep spiritual and social ties within the Muslim community.

Hindu festivals like Thai Pongal and Navaratri are celebrated with vibrant rituals, temple ceremonies, and cultural performances, expressing devotion and cultural pride.

These festivals contribute to Ampara’s lively cultural mosaic, where diverse traditions coexist and blend, fostering mutual respect and a shared sense of community.

🚗 Transportation and Connectivity – Ampara

Ampara is well connected by the Eastern Highway (A27) and other regional roads, linking it to major cities such as Batticaloa, Polonnaruwa, and Monaragala. This strategic location supports trade and travel across the Eastern Province and beyond.

Public transportation includes regular bus services operated by SLTB and private operators, providing routes to nearby towns and cities. While Ampara does not have a railway station, the nearest rail access points are located in Batticaloa and Polonnaruwa.

Local transport relies on three-wheelers, bicycles, and motorcycles, facilitating mobility within the town and neighboring villages. The town’s transport network supports access to agricultural zones, markets, and coastal areas.

🌿 Environmental Significance and Sustainability – Ampara

Ampara lies within Sri Lanka’s dry zone and features important ecosystems such as dry forests, wetlands, and irrigation tanks that support diverse wildlife and sustain agriculture.

The region’s extensive irrigation reservoirs and rivers are critical for water management, enabling year-round farming and supporting biodiversity in otherwise arid conditions.

Environmental efforts in Ampara focus on sustainable water use, forest preservation, combating land degradation, and promoting climate-resilient farming practices to ensure long-term ecological balance.

Conservation projects and eco-tourism initiatives aim to protect Ampara’s unique habitats while enhancing local livelihoods through community-based resource management and environmental education.

🏞️ Tourism and Attractions – Ampara

Ampara serves as a gateway to the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, offering visitors a mix of natural beauty and historical sites.

Key attractions include the Gal Oya National Park, renowned for its wildlife safaris, and the serene Deegavapi Raja Maha Vihara, an ancient Buddhist temple with archaeological significance. The nearby coastline offers beautiful beaches and opportunities for fishing and water sports.

Ampara’s local markets and festivals provide rich cultural experiences, where visitors can engage with traditional crafts, cuisine, and vibrant community life.

With its blend of nature, history, and multicultural charm, Ampara offers an inviting destination for travelers interested in exploring Sri Lanka’s lesser-known eastern landscapes.

📚 Education and Institutions – Ampara

Ampara hosts a range of educational institutions including primary schools, secondary schools, and central colleges that follow Sri Lanka’s national curriculum, serving its multi-ethnic population.

Several schools emphasize language education, agriculture, and technical skills, reflecting the region’s cultural diversity and economic base.

Vocational training centers and technical colleges provide courses in areas such as IT, fisheries, engineering, and hospitality, supporting youth empowerment and workforce readiness.

Community education programs, adult literacy initiatives, and government-supported learning centers help enhance educational access and lifelong learning opportunities across the district.

🏥 Healthcare and Medical Services – Ampara

Ampara is supported by a network of healthcare facilities including the main Ampara District General Hospital, which provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services, emergency care, maternity wards, and diagnostic services.

Numerous Peripheral Units, Medical Officer of Health (MOH) offices, and rural clinics ensure medical access across the district, especially in remote and agricultural areas.

Traditional medicine is also practiced widely, with several Ayurvedic and indigenous treatment centers offering alternative healthcare options.

Public health programs in Ampara emphasize disease control, maternal and child health, nutrition, and sanitation, with support from community health workers and midwives enhancing overall population health.

🌾 Ampara – Heart of Eastern Agriculture, Diverse Cultures & Natural Wonders

Nestled in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, Ampara is a vibrant district known for its extensive agricultural lands, irrigation tanks, and rich farming traditions supporting paddy, sugarcane, and coconut cultivation.
The area’s multicultural heritage is reflected in its festivals, religious sites, and community harmony among Sinhalese, Tamil, and Muslim populations, making Ampara a mosaic of cultures.
Ampara offers nature lovers and cultural explorers alike access to wildlife parks, historic temples, and coastal beauty, promising a diverse and authentic eastern Sri Lankan experience.

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