Morawewa is a historically and culturally significant town located in the Trincomalee District of Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province. The area is named after the ancient “Mora Wewa” (Mora Tank), a reservoir that has supported local agriculture and settlements for centuries. This irrigation tank, believed to have been built during the reign of ancient Sinhala kings, continues to play a crucial role in sustaining the region’s agrarian lifestyle. The surrounding landscape—marked by paddy fields, coconut groves, and scattered forest patches—reflects the deep connection between the people and their environment.
Morawewa is home to a diverse population, including Sinhala, Tamil, and Muslim communities, who have lived together for generations. This multicultural fabric is visible in the town’s religious landmarks, which include Buddhist temples, Hindu kovils, and mosques—each contributing to the social harmony and spiritual richness of the region. Traditional customs, religious festivals, and shared community practices define everyday life here, making Morawewa a symbol of peaceful coexistence.
Agriculture remains the backbone of the local economy, with many families engaged in paddy cultivation, home gardening, and livestock rearing. The ancient irrigation systems still in use today highlight the ingenuity of early water management in the dry zone and continue to support sustainable farming. Additionally, Morawewa is gradually experiencing infrastructural development, with enhanced access to education, healthcare, and transportation connecting it more effectively to urban centers like Trincomalee and Kantale.
The calm and scenic surroundings of Morawewa, combined with its rich cultural heritage and community spirit, make it a promising location for those seeking to experience rural Sri Lanka. It also offers potential for eco-tourism and agricultural investment, particularly for those interested in heritage conservation and sustainable development.
Total Population
2,566
GN Divisions
10
🌿 Why is Morawewa – Sri Lanka Special?
A Historic Village Bridging Heritage and Harmony
Located in the Trincomalee District of Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, Morawewa is a quiet town enriched by ancient irrigation history, multicultural unity, and resilient agricultural life. It’s a place where tradition, water, and community come together beautifully.
🏞️ Legacy of Ancient Water Wisdom
At the heart of Morawewa lies the historic Mora Wewa (tank)—an ancient irrigation marvel that has supported farming communities for centuries. This reservoir still nourishes vast paddy fields, showcasing the ingenuity of early water management.
🌾 A Life Rooted in the Land
Agriculture is the soul of Morawewa, with locals cultivating paddy, coconut, and vegetables. Families here depend on traditional farming systems, passed down through generations, supported by the fertile plains and time-tested irrigation.
🕌 Unity in Diversity
Morawewa is a model of ethnic and religious coexistence, where Sinhalese, Tamils, and Muslims live in harmony. Buddhist temples, Hindu kovils, and mosques share the landscape, reflecting deep respect and shared values.
👨👩👧👦 Strong Bonds, Simple Living
Life in Morawewa flows with the rhythm of the land and the seasons. People value relationships, hospitality, and cultural rituals—from harvest celebrations to religious festivals—which bring families and neighbors together.
🌱 Rural Charm Meets Emerging Development
Though proudly rural, Morawewa is steadily evolving, with better roads, schools, and access to nearby urban centers like Trincomalee and Kantale. It balances modern progress with deep cultural roots, making it a peaceful, promising place for both visitors and residents.
| GN Code | Name in English |
|---|---|
| 005 | Penikatiyawa |
| 010 | Mahathulwewa |
| 015 | Mahadiwul Wewa Stage 02 |
| 020 | Nochchikulam |
| 025 | Morawewa South |
| 030 | Morawewa North |
| 035 | Awwai Nagar |
| 040 | Namalwatta |
| 045 | Kitul Ultuwa |
| 050 | Morawewa Pankulama |
📞 Public Services – Morawewa
| Service | Name | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|
| 🚓 Police Station | Morawewa Police Station | +94 XX XXX XXXX |
| 🏥 Hospital | Morawewa Rural Hospital | +94 XX XXX XXXX |
| 🏛️ Divisional Secretariat | Morawewa Divisional Secretariat | +94 XX XXX XXXX |
| 🩺 MOH Office | Medical Officer of Health (Region) | +94 XX XXX XXXX |
For immediate emergencies, dial 119. Contact the Morawewa Divisional Secretariat for updated service information and verifications.
🌿 Best Time to Visit Morawewa
Morawewa, located in the culturally diverse Trincomalee District of Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, experiences a typical dry zone climate. The best time to visit is from May to September, when dry weather prevails, making it ideal for exploring ancient irrigation systems, local farming culture, and peaceful village life.
🌞 Weather & Seasons
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | May – September | Best time for agricultural tours and local exploration |
| Wet Season (Northeast Monsoon) | October – January | Lush landscapes, ideal for cultural and heritage visits |
| Inter-Monsoon | February – April | Warm weather, great for local festivals and relaxed travel |
🎉 Cultural Events & Festivals
- Thai Pongal: A Tamil harvest festival celebrated with community meals and rituals.
- Vesak & Poson Poya: Celebrated with lanterns, temple activities, and cultural programs.
- Muslim Festivals: Eid celebrations highlight Morawewa’s cultural harmony.
💡 Travel Tips
- Carry a reusable water bottle, especially when visiting rural areas.
- Wear sun protection and light clothing due to high daytime temperatures.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly near religious sites.
- Support local farmers by buying fresh produce or crafts when possible.
📌 Visit Morawewa between May and September to experience its rural charm, ancient water heritage, and warm community atmosphere.
🛏️ Search Places to Stay in Morawewa
🗺️ Geographical Overview of Morawewa
Morawewa is a rural settlement located in the Trincomalee District of Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province. The town is named after the historic Mora Wewa (Mora Tank), an ancient reservoir that continues to support the region’s agriculture and daily life. Positioned along the A12 road, Morawewa lies approximately 40 km west of Trincomalee and about 230 km from Colombo, offering access to both heritage and natural beauty.
The area is characterized by dry zone plains, low-lying agricultural fields, and a network of reservoirs and canals. These features make Morawewa a vital center for irrigation-based farming and rural livelihoods. The landscape includes patches of forest, scrublands, and village settlements, contributing to its ecological value and historical significance as a settlement area dating back to ancient times.
🌍 Location & Surroundings
- Province: Eastern Province
- District: Trincomalee District
- Coordinates: Approx. 8.45° N, 80.85° E
- Nearest Major Town: Kantale (~25 km)
- Distance from Colombo: ~230 km
🌿 Natural Features
- Home to the historic Mora Wewa (reservoir).
- Dry zone farming and tank-based irrigation system.
- Scattered forest patches and village farmlands.
- Traditional agriculture blended with scenic surroundings.
📌 Morawewa stands out as a region where ancient irrigation, agriculture, and peaceful community living define its unique place in Sri Lanka’s Eastern landscape.
🌾 Local Economy & Agriculture in Morawewa
Morawewa, nestled in the heart of Trincomalee District in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, has a local economy rooted in agriculture and traditional livelihoods. The ancient Mora Wewa (tank) and other irrigation structures support extensive paddy cultivation, which serves as the primary occupation and food source for much of the population.
In addition to rice, the community cultivates chili, cowpea, green gram, and maize on seasonal plots. Home gardening and livestock rearing (including poultry and goats) further strengthen household income and food stability. Small-scale trade, local markets, and public employment (such as teaching and civil services) also contribute to the area’s economic resilience.
💼 Key Economic Activities
- Paddy farming supported by the Mora Tank irrigation system.
- Seasonal crop farming (green gram, maize, chili, etc.).
- Livestock and poultry rearing as supplementary income sources.
- Government jobs and small businesses for economic stability.
- Local trade and transport services connecting nearby towns.
🌱 Sustainability & Community Initiatives
Morawewa’s residents are increasingly aware of the importance of sustainable water use and land care. Initiatives are in place to maintain irrigation canals, avoid over-farming, and conserve community forest lands. Women and youth are participating in local cooperative societies and small-scale agribusiness ventures, helping diversify incomes while preserving the village’s natural and cultural heritage.
📌 Morawewa’s economy reflects a balance of tradition, resilience, and stewardship of its historic agricultural heritage.
🤝 Community & Culture in Morawewa
Morawewa, located in the culturally rich Trincomalee District of Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, is home to a close-knit and diverse rural community. It reflects the country’s multicultural identity, where Sinhalese, Tamil, and Muslim families live side by side with mutual respect and cooperation.
Cultural life in Morawewa is shaped by agricultural traditions, religious faith, and a strong sense of social responsibility. Temples, mosques, and churches are active centers of community gatherings and religious observance. The people maintain deep respect for customs, land, and family, with festivals and community events strengthening local unity.
🎉 Key Cultural Highlights
- New Year Celebrations: Both Sinhala and Tamil New Year events bring the community together with games, rituals, and feasting.
- Religious Festivals: Celebrations like Poson, Ramadan, and Deepavali are observed with devotion and hospitality.
- Community Gatherings: Village meetings, harvest events, and temple or mosque activities promote social cohesion.
- Cultural Exchanges: Interfaith respect and shared traditions reflect the unity in Morawewa’s multi-ethnic setting.
🎭 Arts, Music & Local Traditions
Morawewa preserves traditional music, local dances, and oral storytelling—often showcased during festivals and school events. Handicrafts, farming rituals, and shared meals remain an essential part of everyday life. Elders pass down cultural practices, helping the younger generation stay connected to their heritage in an evolving world.
📌 Morawewa’s culture flourishes through its unity in diversity, respect for tradition, and the collective spirit of its people.
🏫 Education & Public Facilities in Morawewa
Morawewa, a developing area in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, provides essential educational and public services that support its multi-ethnic population. While resources are modest, the community shows strong dedication to improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure for long-term development.
Education in Morawewa is centered around government schools that serve both Sinhala and Tamil-speaking students. These schools promote academic achievement while respecting cultural and religious diversity. Community support plays a vital role in maintaining school facilities and promoting learning opportunities for all children.
📚 Educational Institutions
- Primary and secondary schools offering free education under the national curriculum.
- Preschools and early learning centers in local villages.
- Language and religious education through temples, mosques, and churches.
- Occasional NGO-led workshops and skills training programs for youth and adults.
🏥 Public Facilities & Services
- Healthcare: Morawewa District Hospital and nearby rural health centers providing basic medical care.
- Police Station: Ensures community safety and peacekeeping.
- Post Office: Handles mail and small-scale administrative services.
- Divisional Secretariat: Coordinates government services, development projects, and public welfare.
- Community Centers & Playgrounds: Spaces for events, sports, and youth engagement.
Morawewa continues to invest in its future by strengthening basic services and public infrastructure. With community participation and gradual development efforts, the area is working toward creating a more educated, healthy, and empowered society.
📌 Education and essential services in Morawewa are stepping stones toward inclusive progress and community well-being.
🚌 Transportation & Accessibility in Morawewa
Morawewa, located in the Trincomalee District of Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, is accessible mainly via the A12 highway, which connects Trincomalee to other key eastern and northern towns. This route facilitates travel, trade, and connectivity for residents and visitors.
Public and private buses regularly serve Morawewa, linking it to nearby towns such as Kantale, Trincomalee, and Dambulla. Locally, three-wheelers (tuk-tuks), motorcycles, and bicycles are common modes of transport for daily commuting and short-distance travel within the community.
🚆 Rail Connectivity
Morawewa does not have its own railway station. The closest rail access points are at Trincomalee and Habarana, both reachable by road, providing connections to Sri Lanka’s broader rail network.
✈️ Nearest Airports
- Trincomalee China Bay Airport (TRR): About 40 km from Morawewa, offering limited domestic flights.
- Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB): Located approximately 190 km southwest, serving as the main international gateway.
🚍 Local Transportation
- Regular intercity buses along the A12 highway.
- Three-wheelers (tuk-tuks) and motorcycles for village transport.
- Bicycles widely used for short trips by residents.
- Occasional private vehicles for goods and passenger transport.
Despite being a rural area, Morawewa benefits from steady road transport connections that link it to major towns and economic centers, supporting daily life and local commerce.
📌 The A12 highway is the main artery ensuring Morawewa’s accessibility and integration with Eastern Sri Lanka’s transport network.
How to Reach Morawewa
Morawewa is a rural town in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, located along the A12 highway connecting Trincomalee with other key towns. It is accessible by public buses, private vehicles, and three-wheelers. This area serves as a gateway for travelers heading towards the northern and eastern parts of the island.
| City | Distance | Estimated Time | Route Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trincomalee | 40 km | 50 mins | |
| Kantale | 22 km | 30 mins | |
| Dambulla | 120 km | 2 hrs 30 mins | |
| Habarana | 90 km | 2 hrs |
📍 Interactive Route Map
🌳 Why Visit or Invest in Morawewa
Morawewa, located in Sri Lanka’s Trincomalee District, offers rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and growing opportunities for sustainable tourism and agriculture.
Experience Morawewa — where culture, nature, and community come together to offer promising prospects.