Nagoda is a Divisional Secretariat located in the Galle District of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province. It is a region that blends rural and semi‑urban communities, known for its vibrant agricultural activity, small‑scale industries, and an expanding service sector. The area plays a vital role in the administrative framework of the district, supporting local governance, community services, and regional development. Nagoda’s strategic location and diverse economy make it an important hub for trade, education, and cultural activities. It serves as a key link between surrounding rural areas and urban centres, contributing to both economic and social growth. With its rich cultural heritage and community‑driven spirit, Nagoda continues to develop while preserving its traditions. This balance of progress and heritage makes it a significant part of the Galle District, attracting attention for future development initiatives and sustainable regional planning in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province.
Total Population
53,829
GN Divisions
53
Nagoda: Rural Heartland with a Blend of Tradition and Progress
A Community‑Focused Division in the Galle District
Located in the scenic Southern Province of Sri Lanka, Nagoda is a vibrant divisional secretariat in the Galle District, offering a mix of rural charm, agricultural heritage, and growing modern amenities. Positioned about 20 km northeast of Galle city, Nagoda serves as both an administrative hub and a cultural centre for its residents. It is bordered by Baddegama, Yakkalamulla, and Welivitiya‑Divithura, linking fertile inland villages with key district road networks.
Gateway to Rural Life and Local Traditions
Nagoda’s landscape is a tapestry of paddy fields, cinnamon plantations, coconut groves, and small home gardens. Villagers continue to practise age‑old farming traditions alongside modern agricultural methods, ensuring both productivity and sustainability. Buddhist temples, village shrines, and annual peraheras are integral to its community life, reflecting a deep cultural heritage.
Agriculture, Community, and Livelihoods
Agriculture remains the mainstay of Nagoda’s economy, with rice, cinnamon, pepper, and coconut as key crops. Small‑scale industries, such as coir production and handicrafts, complement farming incomes. Close‑knit communities maintain cooperative farming practices, mutual aid societies, and temple‑based cultural events that foster unity and resilience.
Education, Services & Local Governance
Education in Nagoda is supported by several government schools, including Nagoda Central College, alongside primary and secondary institutions across the division. Health services are provided through Nagoda Hospital and rural medical centres. The Nagoda Divisional Secretariat manages administrative services, infrastructure projects, and welfare programs, ensuring local needs are met efficiently.
Reaching Nagoda – Access and Transport
🚖 By Taxi/Ride‑Hailing
Easily accessible from Galle in about 30–40 minutes via the Galle–Baddegama road.
🚌 By Bus
Regular buses connect Nagoda to Galle, Baddegama, and neighbouring towns, passing through lush countryside routes.
🚆 By Train (via Galle)
There is no railway station in Nagoda itself; the closest is in Galle or Baddegama, from where travellers can continue by bus or taxi.
Whether visiting its fertile farmlands, experiencing temple festivals, or engaging with its welcoming communities, Nagoda offers a genuine slice of Sri Lankan rural life — a place where tradition and development go hand in hand.
| GN Code | Name |
|---|---|
| 145 | Panagoda |
| 005 | Thalgaswala |
| 010 | Marakanda |
| 015 | Malamura |
| 020 | Aluth Thanayamgoda Pahala West |
| 025 | Mapalagama |
| 030 | Aluth Thanayamgoda Pahala |
| 035 | Aluth Thanayamgoda Ihala ( South ) |
| 040 | Aluth Thanayamgoda Ihala |
| 045 | Ketagoda South |
| 050 | Ketagoda North |
| 055 | Parana Thanayamgoda |
| 060 | Parana Thanayamgoda Central |
| 065 | Parana Thanayamgoda Pahala |
| 070 | Gonalagoda East |
| 075 | Gonalagoda |
| 080 | Gammeddegoda |
| 085 | Gammeddegoda South |
| 090 | Nagoda Ihala |
| 095 | Nagoda |
| 100 | Kurupanawa |
| 105 | Gonadeniya |
| 110 | Ukovita North |
| 115 | Udugama West |
| 120 | Udugama North |
| 125 | Homadola |
| 130 | Udugama East |
| 135 | Udugama |
| 140 | Ukovita |
| 145 | Gonadeniya South |
| 150 | Udalamatta East |
| 155 | Udalamatta North |
| 160 | Keppitiyagoda |
| 165 | Udawelivitiya |
| 170 | Udawelivitithalawa East |
| 175 | Udawelivitiya Thalawa |
| 180 | Udawelivitiya West |
| 185 | Keppitiyagoda North |
| 190 | Budapanagama |
| 195 | Unanvitiya |
| 200 | Unanvitiya East |
| 205 | Urala North |
| 210 | Urala Pahala |
| 215 | Yatalamatta |
| 220 | Yatalamatta East |
| 225 | Udalamatta South |
| 230 | Udugama South |
| 235 | Udugama Central |
| 240 | Aluthwatta |
| 245 | Hangaranwala |
| 250 | Yatalamatta West |
| 255 | Urala Central |
| 260 | Urala South |
| 265 | Urala East |
| 155 | Osanagoda |
| 145 | Beranagoda |
| 130 | Liyanagoda |
| 265 | Dommannagoda |
| 050 | Henagoda |
| Service | Contact Number | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|
| 🚓 Nagoda Police Station | +94 91 229 3202 | The local law enforcement office is responsible for maintaining public safety, law and order, crime prevention, and emergency response within the Nagoda area. |
| 🏥 Nagoda District Hospital | +94 91 229 3210 | Government hospital offering outpatient, inpatient, maternity, emergency, and specialist medical services to residents and surrounding communities. |
| 🏛️ Nagoda Divisional Secretariat | +94 91 229 3220 | Main administrative centre overseeing civil registration, GN division coordination, agricultural development support, rural infrastructure, and social welfare programs in the Nagoda division. |
Best Time to Visit Nagoda
The best time to visit Nagoda is from December to April, when the weather is mostly dry, sunny, and pleasant. During this period, daytime temperatures range from 26°C to 30°C, creating ideal conditions for exploring the region’s paddy fields, spice gardens, and scenic rural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy cultural events, religious festivals, and community gatherings in a comfortable climate.
From May to September, the southwest monsoon brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity. The countryside turns lush green, rivers and streams flow abundantly, and agricultural activity is at its peak. While outdoor travel may be slower, this season offers a peaceful atmosphere and fewer tourists, making it perfect for those who appreciate quiet rural life.
October and November are transitional months with occasional showers and sunny intervals. These months provide a balanced climate for scenic drives, temple visits, and village photography. Overall, December to April remains the prime season to fully enjoy Nagoda’s cultural heritage, agricultural beauty, and welcoming community spirit.
How to Reach – Nagoda
Nagoda is a prominent Divisional Secretariat in the Galle District of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, located inland from the coastal city of Galle. Known for its blend of rural and semi‑urban life, Nagoda is easily accessible from nearby towns and major highways. Whether travelling from Colombo, Galle, or other surrounding areas, the journey to Nagoda offers scenic views of paddy fields, spice gardens, and village landscapes. Below is a travel guide to help you plan your trip.
| City | Distance | Estimated Travel Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colombo Fort | 110 km | 2.5 – 3 hrs | |
| Galle | 18 km | 30 – 40 mins | |
| Baddegama | 12 km | 20 – 25 mins | |
| Udugama | 15 km | 25 – 30 mins | |
| Elpitiya | 28 km | 40 – 50 mins |
Interactive Map
Geographical Overview – Nagoda
Nagoda is a vibrant inland area located in the Galle District of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province. Positioned within the island’s lush low-country zone, it offers a blend of rural and semi-urban landscapes. The region is known for its fertile paddy fields, coconut and cinnamon plantations, and thriving local markets. Its location along key road networks makes it an important link between coastal Galle and the interior highlands. Nagoda has a rich cultural heritage, with historic temples, community gatherings, and agricultural festivals forming an integral part of daily life. The peaceful surroundings and friendly community create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors, while its economic activity is largely shaped by agriculture, small-scale trade, and growing service sectors. This balance of tradition and development makes Nagoda both an important administrative hub and a gateway to the rural heart of the Southern Province.
Administrative Information
- Province: Southern Province
- District: Galle District
- Divisional Secretariat: Nagoda Divisional Secretariat
- Neighbouring Areas: Baddegama, Udugama, Thawalama, Elpitiya
Local Economy and Services – Nagoda
Nagoda’s economy thrives on agriculture, small-scale trade, and emerging service industries. Fertile low-country lands support extensive paddy cultivation, coconut and cinnamon plantations, and vegetable farming. Many households supplement their income through home-based cinnamon processing, coir production, and small retail businesses. Local markets in Nagoda town serve as vital trading hubs, connecting farmers and traders with buyers from across the district.
Essential facilities in Nagoda include the Nagoda District Hospital, medical clinics, and public health offices catering to the healthcare needs of the community. Education is provided through a network of government schools, including Nagoda Central College, and numerous primary schools in its GN divisions. The Nagoda Divisional Secretariat oversees civil administration, agricultural support, welfare programs, and infrastructure development, while rural banks, post offices, and cooperative societies offer financial and community support services.
Well-connected to Galle and surrounding towns via major roadways, Nagoda is served by regular bus services, taxis, and tuk-tuks. While maintaining its rural charm, the area is experiencing gradual urbanization, making it an important administrative, economic, and social centre in the Galle District’s Southern Province.
Community and Culture – Nagoda
Nagoda is a vibrant community where rural traditions and emerging modern influences blend harmoniously. The majority of residents are Sinhalese Buddhists, with Christian and other minority communities enriching the area’s cultural diversity. Daily life in Nagoda revolves around farming, small-scale businesses, religious activities, and close-knit family ties, fostering strong neighbourly relationships and mutual support.
The cultural calendar in Nagoda is marked by major religious and traditional celebrations such as Vesak, Poson, Esala Peraheras, and the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. Local Buddhist temples serve as spiritual and social hubs, hosting almsgivings, pirith chanting, and colourful peraheras that bring together people of all ages. Churches also hold seasonal events, reflecting the area’s respect for interfaith harmony.
Traditional arts such as Kandyan dance, drumming, and folk songs are celebrated during temple festivals, school cultural programs, and village events. Community involvement through youth clubs, women’s organizations, and cultural committees helps sustain social welfare initiatives and preserve heritage. With its rich traditions, friendly atmosphere, and strong sense of community, Nagoda stands as a thriving example of cultural life in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province.
Festivals & Culture – Nagoda
Nagoda, located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province within the Galle District, is a vibrant community where Buddhist traditions and rural customs thrive. The majority of residents are Sinhalese Buddhists, while small Christian and other minority groups add to the area’s cultural richness. Festivals such as Vesak, Poson, Esala, Christmas, and the Sinhala and Tamil New Year are celebrated with deep devotion, colourful traditions, and enthusiastic community participation.
During Vesak and Poson, Nagoda’s temples are adorned with decorative lanterns, illuminated pandals, and vibrant processions. Devotees and visitors are welcomed with free food and drinks at dansal, while religious observances and almsgiving foster unity. The Esala Perahera showcases cultural pageantry with traditional drumming, dances, and beautifully adorned elephants, drawing spectators from surrounding areas. The Christian community celebrates Christmas with joyful church services, nativity plays, and festive gatherings that highlight harmony among faiths.
Community life in Nagoda is further enriched by school cultural programs, Avurudu games, and performances featuring Kandyan dance, folk songs, and drumming. These celebrations not only preserve heritage but also strengthen bonds between neighbours and generations. With its blend of religious devotion, cultural vibrancy, and community togetherness, Nagoda’s festival calendar reflects the heart and soul of this thriving rural division.
Transportation and Connectivity – Nagoda
Nagoda, located in the Galle District’s interior, is well connected by a network of main and rural roads linking it to surrounding towns and the wider Southern Province. It lies close to towns such as Udugama, Elpitiya, and Thawalama, with road access leading to Galle, Baddegama, and Hiniduma. The primary route to Nagoda is via the Galle–Udugama Road (B129) and connecting byroads, which pass through scenic countryside dotted with rubber plantations, paddy fields, and spice gardens.
Public transport is served by SLTB and private buses operating between Galle, Udugama, Elpitiya, and nearby rural villages. These buses are an essential mode of travel for daily commuters, students, and traders. For short trips within the area, three-wheelers (tuk-tuks) are widely available, providing convenient access to local shops, schools, and government offices.
Nagoda does not have its own railway station; however, the nearest stations in Galle and Baddegama offer train services to Colombo, Matara, and other major destinations. From these stations, travelers can take a bus or tuk-tuk to reach Nagoda. Thanks to its good road links and proximity to key transport hubs, Nagoda remains easily accessible while retaining its peaceful rural character.
Environmental Significance and Sustainability – Nagoda
Nagoda, located in the fertile inland region of the Galle District, is blessed with a harmonious blend of paddy fields, coconut groves, spice gardens, and forested landscapes. Its diverse ecosystems, nourished by streams and seasonal waterways, play a vital role in sustaining agriculture, regulating the local climate, and providing habitats for various species of flora and fauna. The rolling landscapes and rural greenery contribute to Nagoda’s serene environment and agricultural prosperity.
Farmers in Nagoda increasingly embrace sustainable agricultural practices such as crop rotation, organic farming, and integrated pest management. Home gardening, composting, and the use of natural fertilizers are common among households, helping reduce chemical dependence and encouraging healthier food production. Agroforestry practices, where spice plants and fruit trees are cultivated alongside staple crops, further support soil health and biodiversity.
Local schools, environmental groups, and community organizations conduct awareness programs on waste reduction, reforestation, and water conservation. Efforts to preserve waterways and prevent deforestation ensure that Nagoda’s green cover remains intact for future generations. By integrating traditional knowledge with eco-friendly innovations, Nagoda continues to foster a balanced and sustainable rural lifestyle in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province.
Tourism and Attractions – Nagoda
Nagoda, a charming inland town in the Galle District, is surrounded by lush paddy fields, rubber estates, spice gardens, and gently rolling hills. Known for its peaceful rural lifestyle and refreshing natural scenery, Nagoda offers visitors a chance to experience authentic Sri Lankan village charm. The area’s clean air, fertile landscapes, and cultural richness make it a pleasant retreat for travelers seeking tranquility away from the busy coastal belt.
Among Nagoda’s cultural and natural highlights is the Nagoda Royal Temple (Shailatharama Viharaya), a historic Buddhist site featuring intricate architecture and a peaceful ambience for meditation. Scenic countryside lanes lead visitors past coconut groves, cinnamon plantations, and vibrant village markets, offering an immersive glimpse into the daily lives of local residents. Small streams and waterways weaving through the paddy fields create picturesque landscapes ideal for nature walks and photography.
While Nagoda is not a major tourist hub, its location makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions such as Hiniduma, Udugama, and the lower reaches of the Sinharaja Forest Reserve. Visitors can enjoy cycling, birdwatching, and short treks in the surrounding countryside, or simply relax and take in the serene village environment. With its warm hospitality and genuine rural charm, Nagoda is a delightful stop for travelers exploring Sri Lanka’s Southern Province.
Education and Institutions – Nagoda
Nagoda, located in the fertile heart of Sri Lanka’s Galle District, maintains a strong commitment to education for its rural and semi-urban communities. Key institutions such as Nagoda Central College play a pivotal role in delivering primary and secondary education, while also promoting extracurricular activities, sports, and cultural development among students.
The region is home to a variety of government schools and village primary schools that ensure education is accessible to children in even the most remote areas. These schools often incorporate agricultural education, environmental stewardship, and community service into their teaching, reflecting the area’s strong ties to farming traditions and rural sustainability. Vocational training centers and youth development programs provide skills in information technology, small-scale entrepreneurship, and agricultural innovation, helping young people prepare for a range of career paths.
With dedicated educators, active parental involvement, and the support of government initiatives, Nagoda continues to nurture a culture of lifelong learning. By blending local heritage with modern educational practices, the area is equipping its youth to thrive both within their communities and in the wider world.
Healthcare and Medical Services – Nagoda
Nagoda provides essential healthcare services through a combination of government facilities, community health programs, and private practitioners. The main government medical institution serving the area is the Nagoda District Hospital, which offers outpatient consultations, inpatient care, maternity services, minor surgical procedures, and emergency treatment for residents from Nagoda and neighboring villages.
The MOH (Medical Officer of Health) division is responsible for delivering public health initiatives including immunization drives, maternal and child healthcare programs, and school health examinations. Public health inspectors, nurses, and midwives frequently visit rural households to provide preventive care, health education, and support for vulnerable communities. Several private medical clinics and pharmacies in the town cater to routine healthcare needs and provide easy access to medication.
For advanced medical treatment and specialized consultations, residents often travel to major hospitals in Galle, Karapitiya, or Elpitiya. Despite being a rural area, continuous health awareness programs, mobile clinics, and community-based healthcare efforts ensure that Nagoda residents have reliable access to primary medical services.
Why Visit Nagoda – Heritage, Countryside & Serenity
Nagoda, located in the heart of the Galle District, is a peaceful rural hub where lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and cinnamon plantations stretch across the landscape. The gentle rhythms of village life, coupled with scenic countryside charm, make it an ideal retreat for travelers seeking authentic Sri Lankan experiences away from crowded tourist spots.
Visitors can explore age-old Buddhist temples, wander through cinnamon estates, and enjoy leisurely walks along tranquil rural roads. The nearby rivers and green surroundings offer opportunities for birdwatching, cycling, and immersing in agricultural life. As a gateway to both inland nature trails and the southern coastal belt, Nagoda offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, farming traditions, and scenic beauty—making it a rewarding stop for those wishing to discover the soul of rural Sri Lanka.