Kebithigollewa is a peaceful town located in the Anuradhapura District of Sri Lanka’s North Central Province. Surrounded by lush paddy fields, ancient tanks, and forested landscapes, Kebithigollewa offers a serene rural charm that captivates both nature lovers and cultural explorers. Though often overlooked in mainstream tourism, this region holds significant historical and ecological value. Located about 60 km from the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Kebithigollewa serves as a vital connector between key regions in the north and central parts of Sri Lanka.
The town is predominantly agricultural, with many local families depending on farming, especially paddy and vegetable cultivation. Visitors can experience authentic village life, traditional hospitality, and the simplicity of a slow-paced lifestyle. Kebithigollewa is also known for its natural water reservoirs, local temples, and spiritual significance, attracting pilgrims and spiritual seekers alike.
In recent years, Kebithigollewa has gained attention for its role in rural development and post-conflict rehabilitation. The area reflects resilience and community strength, making it an ideal destination for responsible tourism and cultural immersion.
For travelers exploring beyond the typical tourist trails, Kebithigollewa is a rewarding stop that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting for heritage exploration, eco-tourism, or community engagement, Kebithigollewa offers a meaningful and memorable Sri Lankan experience. Easily accessible by road from Anuradhapura and Vavuniya, it stands out as a peaceful haven away from the crowded cities — a true hidden gem in the dry zone heartland of Sri Lanka.
Total Population
~26,068
GN Divisions
26
🌿 Why is Kebithigollewa – Sri Lanka Special?
A Silent Storyteller in Sri Lanka’s Northern Heart
Kebithigollewa, nestled in the tranquil dry zone of Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, is more than just a dot on the map — it’s a place where time slows down and nature, heritage, and humanity thrive in quiet harmony. Often overlooked by mainstream travel routes, this resilient region near the Anuradhapura border has stories carved into every tree, tank, and trail.
🏞️ Natural Tranquillity Beyond the Tourist Trail
Fringed by thick dry-zone forests, ancient tanks like Padaviya and Mahadiulwewa, and traditional farming landscapes, Kebithigollewa is an eco-traveler’s dream. The sunrises here paint the skies in hues of gold and red, reflecting off water surfaces while birds echo their calls through the trees. The untouched beauty of the region makes it ideal for wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and soulful photography.
🕊️ History, Healing & Resilience
Kebithigollewa has witnessed the harsh echoes of conflict — but from that, it has risen stronger. A place where temples, stone inscriptions, and tank systems whisper ancient engineering marvels, and where every local has a story of survival and peacebuilding. Visitors here feel not just welcome but grounded in the quiet strength of the community’s past and present.
🍛 Authentic Flavours & Village Traditions
From freshly picked manioc and spicy curries to smoky coconut sambol and wood-fired rice, Kebithigollewa’s cuisine is hearty, local, and unforgettable. Whether shared during a pola (market day) or under a tree at a humble village shop, food here carries the taste of homegrown love and generational skill.
🤝 Where Every Stranger Becomes Family
Perhaps Kebithigollewa’s most treasured feature is its people. Villagers greet with sincerity, offer guidance with pride, and share their homes with heart. Visitors quickly become part of the rhythm — helping in a field, sipping tea with elders, or chatting with schoolchildren eager to show their English.
🚜 A Rising Hub for Rural Innovation
Today, Kebithigollewa is transforming. Local youth lead digital literacy programs, farmer cooperatives adopt smart agriculture practices, and women’s groups create handmade goods that sustain their families. It’s a place for purposeful travel — where your visit can make a difference.
| GN Code | Name |
|---|---|
| 005 | Halmillawatiya |
| 010 | Kanugahawewa |
| 015 | Herathhalmillewa |
| 020 | Bellankadawala |
| 025 | Punchimudagama |
| 030 | Wahalkada D 6 |
| 035 | Wahalkada D 5 |
| 040 | Wahalkada D 4 |
| 045 | Kahatagollewa |
| 050 | Thammannawa |
| 055 | Kunchuttuwa |
| 060 | Galawewa |
| 065 | Thiththagonewa |
| 070 | Kurulugama |
| 075 | Sinhala Etaweerawewa |
| 080 | Ethalviddawewa |
| 085 | Gonumeriyawa |
| 090 | Kabithigollewa |
| 095 | Ihala Usgollewa |
| 100 | Aiyathigewewa |
| 105 | Bandaraulpatha |
| 110 | Kiriketuwawe |
| 115 | Gonuhaddenawa |
| 120 | Thibiriwewa |
| 125 | Kirimatiyawa |
| 130 | Watthewewa |
| Year | Estimated Population |
|---|---|
| 2012 | 22,325 |
| 2013 | ~22,612 |
| 2014 | ~22,908 |
| 2015 | ~23,214 |
| 2016 | ~23,530 |
| 2017 | ~23,857 |
| 2018 | ~24,196 |
| 2019 | ~24,545 |
| 2020 | ~24,906 |
| 2021 | ~25,279 |
| 2022 | ~25,663 |
| 2023 | ~26,061 |
| 2024 | ~26,068 |
- Police Station: 025-2298622 / 071-8591215
- Hospital: 0252 298 661
Best Time to Visit Kebithigollewa, Sri Lanka
The best time to visit Kebithigollewa is during the dry season from May to September, when the weather is warm, skies are clear, and rural landscapes are at their most picturesque. Located in Sri Lanka’s North Central dry zone, Kebithigollewa experiences a tropical climate, with average daytime temperatures ranging between 28°C to 33°C. This period is ideal for nature walks, exploring village life, visiting nearby tanks like Padaviya and Mahadiulwewa, and enjoying scenic sunrises across misty paddy fields.
The rainy season typically arrives between October and January, bringing life to the surrounding forest and farmland but also causing occasional travel disruptions on rural roads. However, this time is perfect for eco-tourists interested in birdwatching, lush greenery, and experiencing the agricultural rhythms of the region.
For those looking to explore local culture, April is also a festive month, with Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations bringing villages to life with traditional games, rituals, and food. The cooler months of December and January offer a break from the intense heat, making outdoor exploration more comfortable, especially for international travelers.
In summary, for the clearest skies and ease of travel, May to September is ideal. For lush scenery and cultural events, consider the transitional months of April or December.
How to Reach Kebithigollewa
Kebithigollewa, a serene village in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is accessible from major cities like Colombo, Anuradhapura, and Vavuniya. This rural haven is surrounded by scenic tank reservoirs, forests, and farmlands. Use the table below to explore travel routes, distances, and Google Maps links to plan your journey.
| City | Distance | Estimated Time | Route Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colombo | 252 km | 6 – 7 hrs | |
| Anuradhapura | 58 km | 1 hr 30 mins | |
| Vavuniya | 42 km | 1 hr | |
| Medawachchiya | 28 km | 40 mins |
📍 Interactive Route Map
Geographical Overview – Kebithigollewa
Province: North Central Province
District: Anuradhapura
Divisional Secretariat: Kebithigollewa Divisional Secretariat
Neighbouring Areas: Padaviya, Medawachchiya, Horowpothana, Vavuniya
Local Economy and Agriculture – Kebithigollewa
Kebithigollewa’s economy is deeply rooted in agriculture, with the majority of residents relying on farming, livestock rearing, and home gardening for their livelihoods. The region’s location in the dry zone of Sri Lanka makes it ideal for cultivating drought-resistant crops, while ancient irrigation tanks such as Mahadiulwewa and Padaviya help sustain seasonal farming even during dry months.
The main crops include paddy (rice), chili, peanuts, cowpea, and kurakkan (finger millet), which are grown using both traditional and modern methods. Home gardens often yield vegetables, fruits, and medicinal plants, supporting household needs and small-scale trade at local markets (pola).
Animal husbandry also plays a role, with many families raising cattle, goats, and poultry. Milk production, curd, and treacle (from palmyrah) contribute to both domestic use and minor commercial sales.
In recent years, Kebithigollewa has seen a rise in community-based agricultural cooperatives, youth-led agribusiness startups, and government-sponsored development projects that aim to improve irrigation, seed quality, and market access. These efforts reflect a growing movement towards sustainable rural development and food security.
Whether through age-old farming wisdom or new-generation agricultural training programs, Kebithigollewa’s economy continues to thrive on the land and the resilience of its people.
Community and Culture – Kebithigollewa
Kebithigollewa is home to a warm, close-knit community shaped by resilience, tradition, and deep-rooted cultural values. The village life here revolves around mutual support, religious rituals, and the rhythm of rural living. Despite past challenges due to civil conflict, the people of Kebithigollewa have rebuilt their lives with strength and unity, creating a peaceful environment that reflects both healing and hope.
The majority of the population practices Buddhism, and local temples serve as both spiritual centers and social gathering places. Vesak, Poson, and Sinhala-Tamil New Year are celebrated with devotion and village-wide participation, showcasing cultural heritage through dansalas (free food stalls), lanterns, and traditional games. In some areas, Tamil and Muslim communities live harmoniously, contributing to a rich tapestry of customs and languages.
Folk songs, drumming, and local storytelling traditions are still preserved, especially among the older generation, while youth engage in sports events, dance, and school-led cultural programs. Family bonds and respect for elders remain integral to daily life.
Visitors are often touched by the genuine hospitality of the people—whether it’s a cup of plain tea, a shared home-cooked meal, or a guided walk through the village. Kebithigollewa’s culture isn’t found in museums—it’s alive in its homes, fields, and everyday smiles.
Education & Public Facilities – Kebithigollewa
Kebithigollewa is supported by a network of education and public services that serve both the town and its surrounding rural communities. The heart of its educational system consists of government-run schools, including Kebithigollewa Maha Vidyalaya (providing primary and secondary education) and several smaller village schools where students learn foundational literacy, numeracy, and cultural knowledge. Many schools also offer after-school programs in sports, drama, and Tamil language, fostering holistic student development.
For higher studies, many local youth commute daily to Anuradhapura or Vavuniya, where they can attend vocational colleges, technical training institutes, and national schools. This has enhanced opportunities in fields like agriculture, IT, and healthcare.
Public facilities in Kebithigollewa include the Base Hospital, a police station, a post office, and community spaces such as the Grama Niladhari office, livelihood support centers, and local libraries or reading rooms. These services reflect the community’s emphasis on safety, health, and access to information.
In recent years, grassroots initiatives—like youth-run computer labs, women’s self-help groups, and agricultural extension services—have expanded access to skills training, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship. These efforts are transforming Kebithigollewa from a quiet rural outpost into a hub of opportunity and regional growth.
Transportation & Accessibility – Kebithigollewa
Kebithigollewa is well-connected by road and public transport, making it accessible from major cities in North Central Sri Lanka. The town sits on the B-Grade B283 route, linking Medawachchiya to Kebithigollewa (25.74 km) and B291 from Kebithigollewa to Anuradhapura (59.1 km). Regular SLTB buses depart from the Kebithigollewa depot, covering routes such as 830/5 (to Vavuniya, 24 km), 842/1 (to Anuradhapura, 59 km), and 842/4 (to Medawachchiya, 27.5 km).
For more extended travels, routes like 057‑17 offer direct connections between Colombo and Kebithigollewa, while many inter-provincial buses from Colombo pass through Kebithigollewa via Anuradhapura and Kurunegala. Buses run from early morning (around 6 AM) to early evening, making it suitable for daily commuters as well as tourists
Road conditions are generally good, with wide B-grade highways and regular maintenance—although some rural access roads can become rough during the rainy season. The closest railway station is in Medawachchiya (~28 km away), offering another option for travellers heading to Anuradhapura or Colombo. Private taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available locally for final-mile connectivity.
📸 Why Visit or Invest in Kebithigollewa
Kebithigollewa is a place of resilience, culture, and untapped potential — ideal for meaningful tourism, agricultural innovation, and rural development investment.
- 🕊️ Cultural depth & community spirit: Rich village traditions, strong social bonds, and peaceful coexistence.
- 🌾 Agri-based livelihood: Fertile lands, tank-based irrigation, and a hub for sustainable farming practices.
- 🚀 Rural transformation: Youth-led tech education, grassroots innovation, and growing infrastructure support.
Discover Kebithigollewa — where culture meets opportunity in Sri Lanka’s northern heartland.