Beliatta, a quiet town nestled in Sri Lanka’s southern province, offers a charming blend of rural tranquillity and cultural heritage. Located just inland from Tangalle, Beliatta is surrounded by lush paddy fields, coconut plantations, and scenic village landscapes that reflect traditional southern life. The town is known for its friendly locals, serene atmosphere, and historical temples such as the Mulkirigala Raja Maha Viharaya located nearby. With the development of the Southern Expressway and the opening of the Beliatta Railway Station—Sri Lanka’s southernmost station—the area is becoming increasingly accessible to both locals and travellers. Despite its rural vibe, Beliatta is gradually evolving with modern amenities while preserving its agricultural roots and cultural identity. Whether you’re passing through en route to the coast or exploring the inland villages, Beliatta promises an authentic slice of southern Sri Lankan life, away from crowded tourist spots and into the heart of community and nature.
Total Population
62,793
GN Divisions
76
Beliatta: Southern Charm, Agriculture & Community Spirit
A Flourishing Town in the Heart of Hambantota District
Located in the southern lowlands of Sri Lanka’s Hambantota District, Beliatta is a town that blends traditional village simplicity with steady rural development. Just a short drive inland from Tangalle and nestled between paddy fields and coconut estates, Beliatta is fast becoming an essential cultural and service centre in the Southern Province. It lies along the Southern Expressway and houses the southernmost station on Sri Lanka’s railway network — the Beliatta Railway Station — making it increasingly accessible to both locals and travellers.
A Hub of Agriculture and Local Industry
Beliatta’s economy is rooted in agriculture. Vast paddy fields, banana plantations, coconut groves, and home gardens dominate the landscape. Villagers also engage in traditional livelihoods such as carpentry, coir manufacturing, pottery, and brick-making. The GN Division, such as Puwakdandawa, Getamanna, Godawela, and Galagam, presents unique rural clusters, each contributing to a decentralised but thriving local economy.
The town’s weekly fair, known locally as the Beliatta pola, is a bustling market scene where villagers trade fresh produce, household goods, and handmade products — keeping the rural commerce alive and vibrant.
Culture, Religion & Harmony in Beliatta
Buddhism plays a vital role in daily life, with temples like Wewurukannala Viharaya and smaller village shrines anchoring the spiritual identity of Beliatta’s residents. Religious festivals such as Vesak, Poson, Esala Perahera, and the Sinhala and Tamil New Year are celebrated with much devotion and community participation — featuring lantern displays, temple processions, and cultural performances.
The area is also home to Christian and Muslim communities, adding to its cultural mosaic. Mosques and churches coexist with temples, reflecting Beliatta’s deep-rooted values of religious tolerance and unity.
Education, Health & Government Services
Education in Beliatta is well-supported with institutions like Beliatta Central College, Vidyartha Maha Vidyalaya, and a network of primary and secondary schools spread across GN divisions. Students in these rural areas also benefit from regional vocational training centres offering skills in ICT, mechanical trades, and agricultural science.
Healthcare services are delivered through the Beliatta District Hospital, smaller dispensaries, and Ayurvedic centres. Community midwives, pharmacies, and mobile clinics help cover the healthcare needs of both town residents and surrounding villages.
Administrative services are managed under the Beliatta Divisional Secretariat, which oversees 76 GN Divisions, ensuring delivery of government support, Samurdhi benefits, and development projects that empower rural livelihoods.
Reaching Beliatta – Transport Options
🚖 By Taxi or Expressway Exit
Travelling from Colombo via the Southern Expressway (E01) takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Exit at Walasmulla or Beliatta interchange, then continue via regional roads.
🚌 By Bus
Beliatta is well-connected with frequent buses from Tangalle, Walasmulla, Matara, and Hambantota. Long-distance buses to Colombo and other urban centres also stop in town.
🚆 By Train
The Beliatta Railway Station is the southern terminus of the coastal railway line, connecting directly with Colombo Fort, Galle, and Matara. It has made travel more comfortable and has played a key role in revitalising the local economy and tourism potential.
Whether you’re a traveller seeking authentic southern charm or a local appreciating your hometown’s deep roots, Beliatta offers a life enriched by nature, tradition, and connection. With its growing transport links, commitment to education, and resilient rural economy, Beliatta is more than just a town —it’s the living heartbeat of southern Sri Lanka.
| GN Code | Name |
|---|---|
| 005 | Maligathenna |
| 010 | Udugalmotegama |
| 015 | Pallattara West |
| 020 | Pallattara South |
| 025 | Pallattara East |
| 030 | Nugewela |
| 035 | Ihala Beligalla East |
| 040 | Wadiya |
| 045 | Ihala Beligalla West |
| 050 | Beligalla North |
| 055 | Beligalla South |
| 060 | Dammulla East |
| 065 | Dammulla West |
| 070 | Pattiyawela |
| 075 | Tharaperiya |
| 080 | Nihiluwa West |
| 085 | Indiketiyagoda |
| 090 | Nihiluwa East |
| 095 | Waharakgoda North |
| 100 | Waharakgoda South |
| 105 | Kahawatta |
| 110 | Kosgahagoda |
| 115 | Agulmaduwa |
| 120 | Aranwela North |
| 125 | Karambaketiya |
| 130 | Galwewa |
| 135 | Godawela |
| 140 | Panamulla |
| 145 | Ambagasdeniya |
| 150 | Getamanna North |
| 155 | Eldeniya |
| 160 | Getamanna West |
| 165 | Getamanna East |
| 170 | Mahaheella East |
| 175 | Kambussawala West |
| 180 | Kambussawala East |
| 185 | Beliatta West |
| 190 | Beliatta Town |
| 195 | Puwakdandawa North |
| 200 | Puwakdandawa East |
| 205 | Aranwela West |
| 210 | Sitinamaluwa West |
| 215 | Sitinamaluwa North |
| 220 | Sitinamaluwa East |
| 225 | Sitinamaluwa South |
| 230 | Pahalagoda |
| 235 | Medagoda |
| 240 | Beliatta South |
| 245 | Kudaheela East |
| 250 | Kudaheela North |
| 255 | Mahaheella West |
| 260 | Mahaheella North |
| 265 | Getamanna South |
| 270 | Nayakawatta |
| 275 | Ambala North |
| 280 | Ambala West |
| 285 | Miriswatta |
| 290 | Kudaheela South |
| 295 | Ovilana |
| 300 | Mihindupura |
| 305 | Palapotha East |
| 310 | Palapotha West |
| 315 | Dedduwawala East |
| 320 | Dedduwawala |
| 325 | Galagama North |
| 330 | Galagama West |
| 335 | Galagama South |
| 340 | Galagama East |
| 350 | Nakulugamuwa North |
| 355 | Wewdaththa |
| 360 | Nakulugamuwa West |
| Service | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| 🚓 Beliatta Police Station | 0472 266 222 (under Tangalle Police Division) |
| 🏥 District Hospital – Beliatta | 0472 265 231 |
| 🏛️ Beliatta Divisional Secretariat | 0472 265 226 (General Line – Beliatta DS) |
| 🚒 Fire & Rescue (Tangalle Fire Brigade) | 0472 244 444 (serves Beliatta area) |
| 📮 Beliatta Post Office | 0472 265 251 |
| 🚌 Beliatta Bus Depot (SLTB) | 0472 265 210 |
| 🚉 Beliatta Railway Station (Terminus) | 0472 266 257 |
Best Time to Visit Beliatta
The best time to visit Beliatta is between December and March, when the climate is dry, sunny, and ideal for exploring the region’s rich agricultural landscapes and cultural sites. Average daytime temperatures during this period range from 28°C to 32°C, making it comfortable for visiting temples, participating in local festivals, and exploring surrounding paddy fields and weekly markets such as the Beliatta Pola.
The southwest monsoon season, lasting from May to September, brings rainfall and lush greenery to the region. While outdoor activities may be slightly restricted during this time, the landscape becomes especially vibrant. It’s a perfect season for those who enjoy photography, quiet retreats, and observing the farming rhythms in GN divisions like Getamanna, Galagama, and Puwakdandawa.
April and November are transitional months with moderate rainfall and occasional sunshine. These months offer a quieter experience for visitors, with opportunities to witness religious celebrations, traditional cooking, and local village life. However, for the most favourable and accessible travel conditions, December to March remains the top recommendation for visiting Beliatta.
How to Reach – Beliatta
Beliatta, located in Sri Lanka’s Hambantota District, is a culturally rich and agriculturally vibrant town known for its peaceful rural charm. With the Southern Expressway and Beliatta Railway Station enhancing its accessibility, the town is well-connected to many southern and western cities. Whether you're visiting local temples, paddy fields, or village fairs, below is a helpful travel guide to reach Beliatta from nearby major cities.
| City | Distance | Estimated Travel Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colombo Fort | 170 km | 3.5 – 4 hrs | |
| Galle | 80 km | 1.5 – 2 hrs | |
| Matara | 35 km | 45 – 55 mins | |
| Hambantota | 60 km | 1 – 1.5 hrs | |
| Walasmulla | 12 km | 15 – 20 mins | |
| Tangalle | 18 km | 25 – 30 mins |
Interactive Map
Geographical Overview – Beliatta
Beliatta is a charming inland town located in the Hambantota District of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province. Surrounded by expansive paddy fields, coconut plantations, and quiet village roads, Beliatta retains a strong rural character while gradually embracing modern infrastructure. Known for its cultural heritage, agricultural productivity, and warm community spirit, Beliatta serves as a key service and administrative center for many surrounding GN divisions. It is home to the southernmost railway station in Sri Lanka, making it increasingly accessible for travelers heading to or from the southern coast. The town balances tradition and development, offering a genuine insight into life in Sri Lanka’s deep south.
Administrative Information
- Province: Southern Province
- District: Hambantota District
- Divisional Secretariat: Beliatta Divisional Secretariat
- Neighbouring Areas: Tangalle, Walasmulla, Weeraketiya, Ambalantota
Local Economy and Services – Beliatta
Beliatta’s local economy is deeply rooted in agriculture, with paddy cultivation, banana farming, coconut estates, and home gardening forming the backbone of rural livelihoods. Many residents are also engaged in traditional industries such as brick-making, pottery, coir production, and carpentry. The weekly fair, locally known as the Beliatta pola, serves as a vital marketplace for farmers, vendors, and artisans to trade fresh produce and handmade goods, sustaining a vibrant village economy.
Beliatta provides a variety of essential services to residents across its 76 GN Divisions. The area is home to the Beliatta District Hospital, Ayurvedic centers, pharmacies, and private clinics offering healthcare services. Education is a key priority, with institutions such as Beliatta Central College and Vidyartha Maha Vidyalaya providing secondary education, while numerous government schools support younger students. The Beliatta Divisional Secretariat, post office, and cooperative societies ensure access to administrative, welfare, and financial services across the region.
Well-connected by the Southern Expressway and home to Sri Lanka’s southernmost railway station, Beliatta has become more accessible than ever. Regular bus services, tuk-tuks, and private transport link the town to Tangalle, Walasmulla, and Matara. Despite its ongoing development, Beliatta maintains its quiet, community-oriented charm — making it a thriving yet tranquil place to live, work, and explore in Southern Sri Lanka.
Community and Culture – Beliatta
Beliatta is a close-knit and culturally rich town where tradition, spirituality, and rural simplicity guide everyday life. The majority of the population is Sinhalese and Buddhist, with Christian and Muslim communities living peacefully in surrounding GN divisions. Social life is deeply interwoven with agriculture, education, and religious practices, creating a sense of unity, shared values, and generational continuity among residents.
Key religious events such as Vesak, Poson, Esala Perahera, and the Sinhalese and Tamil New Year are celebrated across the town with great devotion. Villages organize dansals, lantern displays, and temple processions that bring together families and youth in shared celebration. Local temples, including the historic Wewurukannala Viharaya nearby, serve not only as places of worship but also as centers for education, charity, and community guidance.
Cultural preservation is a strong focus in Beliatta, with traditional dance, drum performances (beraya), and school concerts showcasing folk heritage. Community development is further supported by youth clubs, women’s societies, and cooperative movements that promote wellness, education, and local leadership. The harmonious blend of cultural pride and collective responsibility makes Beliatta a true reflection of the spirit of Southern Sri Lanka.
Festivals & Culture – Beliatta
Beliatta, nestled among lush paddy fields and traditional village settlements in Sri Lanka’s deep south, is a town steeped in spiritual devotion and cultural vibrancy. The majority of residents are Sinhalese Buddhists, with smaller Christian and Muslim communities contributing to the town’s peaceful diversity. Major religious and cultural events such as Vesak, Poson, Esala Perahera, Christmas, and the Sinhala and Tamil New Year are celebrated across the region with great enthusiasm.
During Vesak and Poson, temples like those in Getamanna and Galagama are illuminated with intricate lanterns and devotional lights. Villagers come together for dansals, religious sermons, and night-time chanting. The Esala Perahera, especially in nearby temple precincts, features traditional drummers, dancers, flag bearers, and symbolic rituals. Meanwhile, Christian families in Beliatta Town and nearby GN divisions celebrate Christmas with nativity events, carols, and festive meals, highlighting the town’s spirit of unity and coexistence.
Traditional customs such as Avurudu games, village fairs, school concerts, and cultural shows are central to preserving Beliatta’s rich folk heritage. These community-driven celebrations unite generations, strengthen bonds, and reflect the deep cultural pride of the people. With its harmonious blend of spirituality, celebration, and rural beauty, Beliatta provides a truly authentic Southern Sri Lankan cultural experience.
Transportation and Connectivity – Beliatta
Beliatta, situated in the Hambantota District of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, has rapidly improved its connectivity in recent years. It is conveniently located just inland from Tangalle and is accessible via the A2 coastal highway and the Southern Expressway (E01), with exits at Walasmulla and Beliatta. This strategic location makes Beliatta an important transit hub for travelers heading to the deep south.
The town is well-served by regular SLTB and private buses that operate to and from Matara, Tangalle, Walasmulla, and even Colombo. These routes are essential for daily commuting, market visits, and school transport. Tuk-tuks (three-wheelers) and motorbikes are widely used by locals for short-distance travel, especially to GN divisions, farms, and community centers.
A significant advantage for Beliatta is the presence of the Beliatta Railway Station — the southernmost station on Sri Lanka’s railway network. It connects directly to Colombo Fort, Galle, Matara, and beyond via the Southern Railway Line. This infrastructure development has enhanced both passenger travel and the movement of goods, making Beliatta a growing center of rural accessibility and transport integration in the south.
Environmental Significance and Sustainability – Beliatta
Beliatta, located in Sri Lanka’s Hambantota District, is known for its rich agricultural lands and environmentally diverse surroundings. The area is a patchwork of paddy fields, coconut plantations, banana groves, and natural wetlands that support both biodiversity and traditional farming. The town’s inland location, paired with seasonal monsoon rains, helps sustain fertile soil and clean water systems crucial for agricultural success.
Farmers across Beliatta are increasingly adopting eco-friendly agricultural methods such as organic composting, natural pest control, intercropping, and use of indigenous seed varieties. Home gardens are common in many GN divisions, contributing to food security and lowering dependence on external resources. Rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation are promoted, especially in drier months, to ensure water conservation across both household and farmland use.
Community groups, schools, and temples frequently organize clean-up programs, tree planting, and awareness campaigns focused on protecting natural water streams and reducing plastic waste. These grassroots efforts, supported by local leadership and NGOs, are helping Beliatta move toward a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future—one rooted in respect for both nature and community well-being.
Tourism and Attractions – Beliatta
Beliatta, located in the heart of the Hambantota District, offers a serene inland experience enriched with agricultural beauty, religious heritage, and growing access to key southern destinations. While not widely commercialized, its proximity to Tangalle, Walasmulla, and the southern coastal belt makes it an ideal stopover for those exploring the deeper cultural and rural side of Southern Sri Lanka.
Tourists can explore charming rural landscapes filled with banana plantations, paddy fields, and village trails. Religious landmarks like the Wewurukannala Raja Maha Viharaya — one of the tallest seated Buddha statues in Asia — are easily accessible and offer both spiritual and historical insight. Traditional weekly markets, temple festivals, and scenic backroads provide an authentic village experience, ideal for slow travel and cultural immersion.
For nature lovers, Beliatta serves as a quiet base to access nearby eco-spots such as the Rekawa Turtle Sanctuary, Tangalle beaches, and inland forest reserves. With its calm pace, welcoming locals, and untapped tourism potential, Beliatta is a hidden gem awaiting discovery in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province.
Education and Institutions – Beliatta
Beliatta, located in the Hambantota District of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, places a strong emphasis on education and community development. The town is anchored by Beliatta Central College, a well-established school offering both primary and secondary education, known for its academic standards, sports excellence, and cultural engagement.
Several government primary schools across Beliatta’s 76 GN divisions support early childhood education and foundational learning. Institutions such as Vidyartha Maha Vidyalaya and nearby zonal schools provide access to Ordinary and Advanced Level studies. Additionally, the region offers vocational training centers and technical education programs in agriculture, ICT, construction, and entrepreneurship—empowering youth with hands-on skills for the future.
Educational growth in Beliatta is driven by dedicated teachers, active school development committees, and strong community support. Government initiatives and local efforts ensure inclusive access to quality learning, making Beliatta a nurturing environment for academic achievement and skill-based progress in Southern Sri Lanka.
Healthcare and Medical Services – Beliatta
Beliatta provides a reliable healthcare system through its blend of government health institutions, private clinics, and community-based medical support. The primary facility is the Beliatta District Hospital, which offers outpatient care, emergency services, maternity units, and minor surgical procedures, serving residents from surrounding GN divisions as well.
The Medical Officer of Health (MOH) – Beliatta Division oversees key preventive health programs such as immunization, school health screenings, maternal and child care, and public health awareness campaigns. A dedicated network of public health midwives, nurses, and field officers ensures that families, especially in remote villages, receive timely guidance and support. Numerous pharmacies, ayurvedic centers, and general medical practitioners are also available for daily needs and consultations.
For specialist care and advanced treatments, residents often travel to larger hospitals in Matara, Tangalle, or the Teaching Hospital in Karapitiya. However, Beliatta’s local services continue to expand, supported by school health camps, mobile clinics, and health promotion units working together to ensure that rural and urban populations alike have access to affordable, quality care.
Why Visit Beliatta – Rural Heritage & Southern Warmth
Beliatta, tucked between Sri Lanka’s southern coastline and its fertile inland landscapes, is a peaceful town that offers visitors a true taste of village life. Framed by lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and scenic backroads, Beliatta stands out as a serene escape from the crowded tourist hubs, while still being just a short journey from Tangalle and Walasmulla.
Here, guests can stroll through vibrant weekly markets, observe traditional pottery and brick-making, and connect with villagers whose livelihoods are steeped in agriculture and local craftsmanship. Whether it's sharing a cup of tea at a roadside stall, attending a temple perahera, or exploring a quiet GN division by tuk-tuk, Beliatta offers meaningful rural experiences. Its deep-rooted community spirit, cultural richness, and growing accessibility via expressway and railway make it a rewarding stop for travelers seeking authenticity in Southern Sri Lanka.