Kahawatta, a picturesque town nestled in the central mountains of Sri Lanka, embodies the rich tapestry of the country’s natural and cultural heritage. Located in the Ratnapura District of the Sabaragamuwa Province, it sits at an elevation of 710 meters (2,330 feet) above sea level, offering breathtaking views and a cooler climate compared to the lowlands. With a population of 43,298, Kahawatta is a vibrant community known for its contributions to Sri Lanka’s tea and gem industries.
Kahawatta’s landscape is dominated by expansive tea plantations, a testament to the region’s historical and ongoing significance to Sri Lanka’s tea industry. These lush green estates not only contribute to the economy through the production of high-quality tea but also offer a scenic beauty that attracts tourists and nature lovers. Alongside tea, Kahawatta is part of Sri Lanka’s renowned gem belt, with the local gem industry contributing to the town’s prosperity and fame on both a national and international scale.
Total Population
43,298
GN Divisions
22
The historical significance of Kahawatta is enriched by its connection to local folklore, particularly its association with the Maha Saman Devalaya in Ratnapura. The town’s name, meaning “turmeric garden” in Sinhala, reflects its historical role in providing turmeric to this revered temple, highlighting the cultural and spiritual connections that have shaped the area’s identity.
Strategically situated at the intersection of the Nonagama – Pelmadulla Road (A18) and the Watapotha – Opanayake Road, Kahawatta enjoys significant connectivity to major towns and cities. Its position on the banks of the Wey Ganga further adds to its scenic charm and agricultural potential. Being approximately 30 kilometers southeast of Ratnapura and around 100 kilometers southeast of Colombo, Kahawatta is accessible yet tranquilly removed from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
In contemporary times, Kahawatta has managed to preserve its traditional roots while embracing modernity. The town and its surrounding areas continue to thrive on agriculture, with tea and gems remaining the cornerstone of its economy. However, it is also seeing gradual development in terms of infrastructure, education, and tourism, balancing progress with the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage.
| GN Code | Name in English |
|---|---|
| 005 | Yainna |
| 010 | Nugawela West |
| 015 | Nugawela East |
| 020 | Weladura |
| 025 | Bungiriya |
| 030 | Uwa Hawpe |
| 035 | Yatagare |
| 040 | Madalagama Colony |
| 045 | Panapitiya North |
| 050 | Nambuluwa |
| 055 | Atakalanpanna |
| 060 | Pahamunupanna |
| 065 | Kalalella |
| 070 | Panapitiya South |
| 075 | Gabbela |
| 080 | Endana |
| 085 | Madalagama |
| 090 | Miyanawita West |
| 095 | Miyanavita East |
| 100 | Kiranodagama |
| 105 | Pannila |
| GN Code | Name in English |
|---|---|
| 005 | Rawanakanda |
| 010 | Gallenakanda |
| 015 | Kattadikanda |
| 020 | Waleboda North |
| 025 | Bellankanda |
| 030 | Bolthumbe |
| 035 | Pinnawala |
| 040 | Udagama |
| 045 | Madhdhegama |
| 050 | Pidaligannawela |
| 055 | Ihalagalagama |
| 060 | Wiharawela |
| 065 | Kuburutheniwala |
| 070 | Belihuloya |
| 075 | Yakdehiwala |
| 080 | Muththettuwegama |
| 085 | Puwakgahawela |
| 090 | Budunwela |
| 095 | Halpe |
| 100 | Niththamaluwa |
| 105 | Kumbalgama |
| 110 | Kinchigune |
| 115 | Karagasthalawa |
| 120 | Seelogama |
| 125 | Imbulpe |
| 130 | Passaramulla |
| 135 | Alakolaella |
| 140 | Atawakwela |
| 145 | Kanathiriyanwela |
| 150 | Pallewela |
| 155 | Gurubewila |
| 160 | Pandheniya |
| 165 | Pagalowita |
| 170 | Madhdhethalawa |
| 175 | Amuwathugoda |
| 180 | Medagedaragoda |
| 185 | Aluthnuwara |
| 190 | Thotapalla |
| 195 | Ulupitiya |
| 200 | Mamalgaha |
| 205 | Welanhinna |
| 210 | Amupitiya |
| 215 | Naluwela |
| 220 | Wegapitiya |
| 225 | Morahela |
| 230 | Oluganthota |
| 235 | Rathmalawinna |
| 240 | Karadiyamulla |
| 245 | Hatharabage |
| 250 | Thunkinda |
- Police Station: 045-2270822 / 045-2270488
- Hospital: +94 452 270 261