Manthai East is a coastal village located in the northern part of Sri Lanka, in the Mullaitivu District. It lies along the western shores of the island, nestled between the Jaffna Peninsula and the Mannar District, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean. This tranquil area is known for its picturesque landscapes, including lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and serene beaches, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Historically, Manthai East has been significant due to its strategic location as a port and trade route. The region has a rich cultural heritage influenced by both Tamil and Sinhala traditions, which are evident in the local festivals, customs, and temples. Despite its calm demeanor, the area has faced challenges, particularly during the Sri Lankan civil conflict, which affected many communities along the northern coastline. Today, however, Manthai East has seen a steady recovery and growth, with increased efforts to revive its agricultural and fisheries industries.
The local economy of Manthai East is primarily based on fishing and agriculture. The region is known for its high-quality produce, including rice, coconuts, and various fruits. The fishing industry, supported by the nearby ocean, contributes significantly to the livelihoods of the community. Many families rely on small-scale fishing, while others engage in farming. With its growing agricultural output and proximity to the coast, Manthai East has also begun to attract small-scale tourism, especially for eco-tourism and heritage tourism.
For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Sri Lanka, Manthai East provides a peaceful and scenic escape, with opportunities for exploring the natural beauty of the area and experiencing authentic village life.
Total Population
8,650
GN Divisions
15
🌊 Why is Manthai East – Sri Lanka Unique?
Manthai East, located in the beautiful northern region of Sri Lanka, is known for its vibrant rural lifestyle, agricultural prosperity, and rich cultural heritage. This area offers a perfect blend of traditional Tamil customs, scenic beauty, and a strong sense of community pride.
🛕 Cultural Significance and Traditions
Manthai East is home to a rich cultural heritage, with numerous Hindu temples and vibrant festivals celebrated throughout the year. The community takes pride in the colorful celebrations of Tamil New Year, harvest festivals, and religious rituals.
🛣️ Strategic Location
Positioned strategically between major agricultural hubs, Manthai East connects various farming communities, facilitating trade and cultural exchange. The location serves as an important center for rural development and regional connectivity.
🌾 Agriculture and Sustainability
Agriculture is the heart of Manthai East, with the fertile soil supporting rice cultivation, vegetable farming, and coconut plantations. The community practices sustainable farming techniques that have been passed down through generations.
🤝 Community and Unity
The people of Manthai East are known for their strong sense of community and unity. Through challenging times, they continue to work together to preserve their traditions and build a brighter future for the next generation.
🏗️ Progress and Development
Manthai East is gradually progressing, with a focus on infrastructure development, improving living standards, and enhancing local services. The development plans aim to maintain a balance between modernity and the area's agricultural and cultural roots.
GN Code and Name in English
| GN Code | Name in English |
|---|---|
| 005 | Ampalpuram |
| 010 | Karumpulliyan |
| 015 | Kollavilankulam |
| 020 | Moonrumurippu |
| 025 | Naddankandal |
| 030 | Oddaruththakulam |
| 035 | Palinagar |
| 040 | Pandiyankulam |
| 045 | Ponnagar |
| 050 | Poovarasankullam |
| 055 | Selvapuram |
| 060 | Siraddikulam |
| 065 | Sivapuram |
| 070 | Vannivilankulam |
| 075 | Vinayagapuram |
Population Change from 2012 to 2024 in Manthai East
| Year | Population | Change from Previous Year |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 7,117 | - |
| 2013 | 7,200 | +83 |
| 2014 | 7,300 | +100 |
| 2015 | 7,450 | +150 |
| 2016 | 7,600 | +150 |
| 2017 | 7,750 | +150 |
| 2018 | 7,900 | +150 |
| 2019 | 8,000 | +100 |
| 2020 | 8,100 | +100 |
| 2021 | 8,200 | +100 |
| 2022 | 8,350 | +150 |
| 2023 | 8,500 | +150 |
| 2024 | 8,650 | +150 |
Manthai East Contact Information
Location: Manthai East Police Station, Northern Province, Sri Lanka
Contact Number: 0212 060 003
Location: Manthai East Hospital, Northern Province, Sri Lanka
Contact Number: 021 228 3475
Best Time to Visit Manthai East, Sri Lanka
Manthai East, located in the beautiful northern region of Sri Lanka, offers a serene escape amidst nature's beauty. The best time to visit this peaceful village is dependent on weather patterns, festivals, and activities you wish to enjoy. Here's everything you need to know to plan your visit to Manthai East.
The best time to visit Manthai East is during the **dry season** from **May to September**. The weather during these months is warm with less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring temples, enjoying the countryside, and visiting local farms. The temperatures range between 27°C to 32°C, which is pleasant for sightseeing and leisurely walks.
The **monsoon season** runs from **October to December**, with heavy rainfall. While this may deter some visitors, the monsoon brings out the lush greenery of the area, and if you're interested in photography or experiencing the countryside in its most vibrant state, this is the season for you. However, travel may be difficult due to occasional flooding in rural areas, and outdoor activities may be limited.
The **shoulder season**, which is from **January to April**, offers a good balance of moderate weather and fewer crowds. The temperature is cooler, ranging from 25°C to 30°C, making it comfortable for exploring local attractions without the intense heat of summer. This is a great time for travelers who prefer a quieter experience with a mix of clear skies and some occasional light rain.
If you're looking to experience local culture, visiting Manthai East during one of its major **Hindu festivals**, such as **Tamil New Year (April)** or the **Navaratri festival (September/October)**, would provide a unique experience. The temples are beautifully decorated, and cultural events like traditional dances, rituals, and processions bring life to the village.
Manthai East offers spectacular sunrise and sunset views. The early mornings are ideal for a peaceful stroll through the fields or a visit to the temples, while evenings offer stunning sunsets over the paddy fields and distant hills. Plan to be outdoors during these hours to enjoy the natural beauty of the landscape.
How to Reach Manthai East
Manthai East, located in the Kilinochchi District of Northern Sri Lanka, is a culturally rich region with lush landscapes, farming communities, and Tamil heritage. It is easily accessible by road from other major cities in Sri Lanka.
| City | Distance | Estimated Time | Route Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jaffna | 20 km | 30 – 35 mins | |
| Colombo | 420 km | 8 – 9 hrs | |
| Kilinochchi | 80 km | 1.5 – 2 hrs | |
| Vavuniya | 160 km | 3.5 – 4 hrs | |
| Mannar | 135 km | 3 – 3.5 hrs |
🗺️ Interactive Route Map
Geographical Overview of Manthai East, Sri Lanka
Manthai East is a rural area located in the Kilinochchi District of northern Sri Lanka. The region is known for its fertile lands, rich agricultural resources, and proximity to the coastal regions. As part of the Jaffna Peninsula, Manthai East plays a vital role in the local economy through agriculture and fishing.
Manthai East is situated along the northwestern coastline of Sri Lanka, with lush agricultural fields surrounding the area. The landscape is characterized by expansive paddy fields, coconut groves, and scenic views of the ocean. The terrain is primarily flat with a few rolling hills in the surrounding areas, offering beautiful vistas of nature and rural life.
Manthai East experiences a tropical climate, with high temperatures throughout the year, ranging from 25°C to 32°C. The region sees two monsoon seasons: the **Northeast Monsoon** (from October to January), which brings heavy rainfall, and the **Southwest Monsoon** (from May to September), which provides additional moisture. The dry season, from March to September, is the best time for outdoor activities and travel.
Manthai East is strategically located, approximately **20 km** from **Mannar**, a town known for its historical significance and coastal beauty. The area is also around **90 km** away from **Jaffna**, the cultural capital of the Northern Province. The town’s proximity to **Kilinochchi** (approximately 80 km) connects it to other major towns in the region.
The fertile soil of Manthai East supports a variety of crops, including rice, vegetables, and coconuts. Fishing is another significant activity in the region due to its coastal location. Local lakes and rivers provide fresh water for agriculture, and the surrounding natural environment contributes to the biodiversity of the area, with a variety of plant and animal species.
Manthai East is located near several noteworthy attractions, including the historic **Mannar Fort**, the **Ramanathan Pillaiyar Kovil**, and the scenic **Mannar Island**. The surrounding areas offer opportunities for eco-tourism, including bird watching and fishing trips.
Local Economy and Agriculture – Manthai East
Manthai East, located in the Kilinochchi District of Northern Sri Lanka, has a thriving agricultural sector that plays a crucial role in the local economy. The region’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with rice farming, coconut cultivation, and vegetable farming forming the backbone of the local livelihood. The coastal proximity also allows for a strong fishing industry, contributing to the region's economic vitality.
Agriculture in Manthai East is characterized by the cultivation of staple crops like **rice**, **coconuts**, and a variety of **vegetables**. The fertile lands, nourished by the region's natural irrigation systems and the proximity to freshwater lakes, make it ideal for large-scale rice production. Paddy fields stretch across much of the area, and local farmers primarily practice traditional farming methods.
In addition to rice, **coconut farming** is a significant part of Manthai East's agricultural economy. Coconut trees are found across the region, and their products, such as copra and coconut oil, are essential to the local market. The region also cultivates **tropical fruits** like bananas, papayas, and mangoes. These crops are vital not only for local consumption but also for trade with neighboring regions.
Being located near the northern coastline, **fishing** is a major source of income in Manthai East. The coastal waters are rich in fish, and local fishermen use traditional methods to catch a variety of fish and seafood. Fish such as **tuna**, **mackerel**, and **prawns** are regularly caught and sold in local markets or transported to larger towns for further distribution. Fishing also supports related industries, including seafood processing and export.
Apart from crop farming and fishing, livestock farming also plays an important role in the local economy. Many residents engage in **dairy farming**, raising cattle for milk production, which is a staple in the local diet. **Goat farming** and **poultry** are also common, with the meat and eggs providing additional sources of income for the farmers.
The majority of the population in Manthai East is employed in agriculture, with many working directly on farms, plantations, or in related industries like coconut processing and fishing. **Small businesses** are also growing in the region, with local shops selling agricultural produce, fishing gear, and household items. Manthai East is becoming a regional hub for trade in agricultural goods, with roads and infrastructure gradually improving to facilitate better connectivity and economic growth.
Education and Public Facilities – Manthai East
Manthai East, located in the Kilinochchi District, Sri Lanka, offers a range of educational and public facilities that support the community's growth and development. Education, healthcare, and essential services are key aspects of life in the region, ensuring that the people have access to basic needs and opportunities for advancement.
Education plays a vital role in Manthai East, with several **government schools** offering primary and secondary education to children. Local schools cater to the educational needs of the Tamil community, providing a foundation for students to pursue further education. The **Manthai East Government School** is one of the major institutions that provide free education, following the national curriculum.
In addition to government-run schools, there are also a number of **private tuition centers** that offer supplementary education to students, particularly in subjects such as mathematics, languages, and science. However, access to higher education remains a challenge due to limited infrastructure, and many students pursue **tertiary education** in nearby towns such as **Kilinochchi** and **Jaffna**, where universities and vocational training centers are located.
Healthcare in Manthai East is provided primarily by the **Manthai East Hospital**, which offers basic medical services, including general checkups, maternity care, vaccinations, and emergency treatment. The hospital serves as the first point of contact for medical care in the region, though more specialized treatment is available in larger hospitals in **Kilinochchi** and **Jaffna**.
In addition to the hospital, there are **community health centers** that offer preventive care and treatment for common illnesses. The **Sri Lanka Red Cross Society** also provides support for health campaigns, particularly for **vector-borne diseases** and sanitation programs, ensuring that the community remains healthy and safe.
**Access to clean drinking water** has been a major focus in Manthai East, with ongoing efforts to improve water supply systems. The local authorities have implemented a **pipe-borne water system** that provides safe drinking water to many parts of the village, although some rural areas may still rely on **bore wells**.
Sanitation facilities, including public toilets and waste management systems, have also been improved in recent years. However, challenges remain, especially in more remote areas, where the infrastructure may be underdeveloped.
Manthai East is well-connected to nearby towns like **Kilinochchi**, **Jaffna**, and **Mannar** via the **A9 highway**, which is the main route for travelers and goods. Local **buses** and **three-wheeler taxis** are common modes of transportation, ensuring easy access to the surrounding regions.
The village is also close to **Kilinochchi Railway Station**, which connects it to the rest of the island via Sri Lanka's railway network, providing further accessibility for education, healthcare, and work opportunities.
Transportation and Accessibility – Manthai East
Manthai East, located in the Kilinochchi District of Northern Sri Lanka, enjoys strategic connectivity to the rest of the island through various transportation networks. The region is easily accessible by road, rail, and other means of transportation, which ensures that both locals and visitors can travel to and from the area conveniently.
The main road connecting **Manthai East** to other towns is the **A9 Highway**, which is part of the central arterial road network running from **Colombo** to **Jaffna**. This highway is crucial for connecting the northern regions of Sri Lanka, making Manthai East easily accessible by **private vehicles**, **buses**, and **three-wheelers**.
**Local bus services** provide convenient travel within the region and to nearby towns like **Kilinochchi**, **Jaffna**, and **Mannar**. Buses are frequent and affordable, serving as a primary mode of transportation for daily commutes.
**Manthai East** benefits from its proximity to the **Kilinochchi Railway Station**, which is part of the **Sri Lanka Railways** network. The railway offers an essential service connecting the **northern provinces** with the **south** of Sri Lanka. The trains from **Kilinochchi** travel to major stations like **Colombo**, **Anuradhapura**, and **Jaffna**, allowing easy access for long-distance travel.
The **Kilinochchi Railway Station** is a key transportation hub for the region, and residents of Manthai East frequently use it to travel for work, education, and business purposes.
In addition to buses, **private vans** and **shared taxis** are common for short-distance travel within the region. These services are affordable and often serve areas not directly accessible by larger buses.
While **Manthai East** does not have its own airport, the nearest airport is the **Jaffna International Airport**, located approximately **80 km** away from the village. The airport offers domestic flights that connect the region to **Colombo** and other parts of Sri Lanka, making it convenient for those traveling by air.
**Manthai East** is close to the coast, and although there is limited water transport infrastructure, the region is accessible via small boats and ferries to nearby **Manthai East Port** for **fishing** and **local trade** activities. The sea routes are particularly important for the fishing community in the area.
The local infrastructure in **Manthai East** continues to improve with efforts to enhance **road conditions** and **public transport networks**. In addition to transportation, the area is also working on expanding **telecommunication networks** and **internet connectivity**, ensuring that residents and businesses remain connected to the broader region.
Emerging Rural Enterprises – Manthai East
Manthai East, a rural region located in the Kilinochchi District of Sri Lanka, has seen a rise in innovative and sustainable enterprises in recent years. These emerging businesses are reshaping the local economy and providing new opportunities for the community. From agriculture to local handicrafts, here’s an overview of the growing rural enterprises in Manthai East.
**Agriculture** remains the backbone of the economy in Manthai East, but new trends in **organic farming** and **agri-businesses** are on the rise. Many local farmers have shifted towards more sustainable and organic farming practices, producing fruits, vegetables, and grains that are sold in **local markets** and even **exported** to larger towns and cities. Additionally, the demand for **organic coconut products** such as oil and flour has led to the creation of small-scale coconut processing businesses.
Being close to the coast, **fishing** is a major industry in Manthai East. In addition to traditional fishing, there are emerging **seafood processing** enterprises that help improve the value of locally caught fish and seafood. Small **fish processing units** have been established, providing employment for the local community and adding value to the local catch. This enterprise is now moving towards exporting dried fish, seafood snacks, and processed fish products to larger markets.
Manthai East is also seeing the rise of **handicraft enterprises**, where local artisans create traditional products such as **woven baskets**, **handmade jewelry**, and **cloth-based items** like saris and shawls. These items, often made using **locally sourced materials**, reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. With the support of **local tourism**, these crafts are now being marketed outside of the region, contributing to both cultural preservation and economic growth.
**Eco-tourism** is another emerging sector in Manthai East. Entrepreneurs in the region are focusing on sustainable tourism that highlights the natural beauty of the area, including its beaches, lagoons, and rural landscapes. Small **eco-friendly lodges** and **nature tours** have been established, catering to tourists interested in experiencing authentic Sri Lankan village life while respecting environmental sustainability. These eco-tourism ventures also create employment and raise awareness about environmental conservation.
In addition to traditional industries, there is a rise in **small businesses** and **startups** in sectors such as **retail**, **hospitality**, and **IT services**. Local entrepreneurs are opening small shops that sell handmade goods, local produce, and even provide services like **tailoring** and **mechanical repair**. Some startups are beginning to focus on **technology-driven services**, including **mobile app development** and **digital marketing** for local businesses. These small businesses are critical to diversifying the local economy.
To support the growing agricultural sector, several **agricultural cooperatives** have been established in the region. These cooperatives allow local farmers to pool resources, share equipment, and access bulk purchasing, making farming more cost-effective and productive. Additionally, the **government** and **NGOs** provide **financial support** and **training programs** to help local entrepreneurs in agriculture and fisheries improve their techniques and expand their markets.
🛏️ Search Places to Stay in Manthai East
📸 Why Visit or Invest in Manthai East
Manthai East, located in the Kilinochchi District of Sri Lanka’s Northern Province, is a rural gem blending agriculture, fishing, and cultural tourism. Its peaceful environment, agricultural lands, and welcoming communities make it ideal for eco-tourism, rural businesses, and sustainable investments.
- 🚤 Strategic Location: Easily accessible from Kilinochchi and nearby towns, close to scenic landscapes and agricultural hubs. Ideal for agro-tourism, eco-resorts, and fishing-based industries.
- 🏝️ Natural & Scenic Attractions: Known for its lush agricultural fields, lagoons, and eco-friendly landscapes. Perfect for nature walks, birdwatching, and eco-tourism.
- 🌾 Agriculture & Fisheries: The area is known for coconut farming, paddy cultivation, and fishing. Strong potential for value-added agro products and seafood.
- 🏡 Community & Cultural Tourism: Opportunities for homestays, local festivals, cycling tours, and cultural experiences with Tamil farming communities.
Whether you are a traveller, entrepreneur, or investor, Manthai East offers a harmonious mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and promising investment prospects.