Lankapura, located in the Polonnaruwa District of Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, is a tranquil and culturally rich region that remains largely undiscovered by mainstream tourism. Surrounded by ancient irrigation systems, lush paddy fields, and historic ruins, Lankapura offers a unique glimpse into the island’s glorious past and vibrant rural life. This region was once a significant part of the ancient Polonnaruwa Kingdom, making it a must-visit destination for history lovers and cultural explorers alike.
What makes Lankapura truly special is its peaceful environment, where tradition meets resilience. Local communities thrive on agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, supported by time-tested irrigation techniques inherited from the ancient Sinhalese civilization. Visitors to Lankapura can witness traditional village lifestyles, engage with welcoming locals, and explore Buddhist temples that reflect the deep-rooted spirituality of the area.
Lankapura is also an ideal base for those exploring nearby attractions like the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa, Minneriya National Park – famous for its elephant gatherings – and the awe-inspiring Dimbulagala Monastery. Its strategic location, rural charm, and historical depth make it perfect for off-the-beaten-path travel enthusiasts.
For travelers seeking authenticity, nature, and history, Lankapura offers a truly immersive experience. Whether you’re a cultural photographer, a history buff, or someone searching for Sri Lanka’s hidden treasures, Lankapura deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. Plan your visit to Lankapura and experience the quiet beauty of one of Sri Lanka’s most soulful regions.
Total Population
36,452
GN Divisions
28
🌾 Why is Lankapura – Sri Lanka Special?
A Tapestry of Heritage, Spirituality, and Rural Revival
Lankapura, tucked away in the heart of the Polonnaruwa District in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, is a hidden cultural treasure where ancient legacies and rural life flourish side by side. Known for its historic roots, serene landscapes, and strong community spirit, Lankapura offers a refreshing escape from busy tourist trails.
💧 Ancient Waters, Living Lands
Lankapura inherits the wisdom of Sri Lanka’s ancient hydraulic civilization. The region is nourished by time-tested irrigation systems and tanks (wewa), ensuring bountiful paddy harvests even in the driest months. These waters continue to sustain both agriculture and daily life—just as they did centuries ago.
🚜 Village Strength & Timeless Agriculture
Agriculture is more than an occupation in Lankapura—it’s a way of life. Traditional rice paddies, chena cultivation, and home gardens reflect generations of knowledge. With an increasing focus on organic farming and sustainable methods, the local economy is finding new balance between heritage and innovation.
🛕 Spiritual Roots & Sacred Spaces
Lankapura is steeped in Buddhist history, dotted with lesser-known temples, ancient stupas, and village shrines. These sacred places, often surrounded by lush greenery, offer moments of quiet reflection and local legend.
🏫 Community-Driven Development
Despite its rural setting, Lankapura is embracing change. From rural schools and youth tech programs to women-led craft businesses and local cooperatives, the town is growing with resilience and purpose. Educational outreach and government support are slowly transforming lives.
🍛 Flavours of the Countryside
Lankapura’s kitchens serve up authentic Sri Lankan village cuisine—from wood-fired dhal curry and warm rice to sweet kiri pani (curd and treacle). Meals are often shared in clay pots, under thatched roofs, with stories passed between generations.
🌱 Sustainable & Soulful
Eco-conscious youth initiatives, forest preservation efforts, and clean-up drives reflect a growing environmental awareness. Lankapura’s next generation is shaping a future that respects the past.
🏞️ Why Visit Lankapura?
For travelers seeking authenticity, Lankapura is a soulful destination. Whether you’re drawn to its spiritual silence, golden paddy fields, local markets, or the warmth of its people—Lankapura invites you to pause, connect, and rediscover simplicity.
| GN Code | Name |
|---|---|
| 005 | Weli Ela |
| 010 | Maha Kirimetiya |
| 015 | Buddhayaya |
| 020 | Sungavila |
| 025 | Jayabima |
| 030 | Jayapura |
| 035 | Nelumpura |
| 040 | Patunugama |
| 045 | Munisirigama |
| 050 | Pansalgodella |
| 055 | Gal Amuna |
| 060 | Hingurakdamana |
| 065 | Gemunupura |
| 070 | Senanayakapura |
| 075 | Debarella |
| 080 | Somapura |
| 085 | Abhayapura |
| 090 | Sanghabodhi Gama |
| 095 | Pulasthigama |
| 100 | Kegalugama |
| 105 | Thalpotha |
| 110 | Bauddhartha Gama |
| 115 | Lankapura |
| 120 | Rifaipura |
| 125 | Al Hilalpura |
| 130 | Thambala |
| 135 | Onegama Muslimgama |
| 140 | Weerapura |
- Hospital: 027 224 2261
Best Time to Visit Lankapura, Sri Lanka
Lankapura, nestled in the Polonnaruwa District of Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, enjoys a dry-zone climate that makes it accessible almost year-round. However, to enjoy the best of its natural beauty, historical charm, and rural life, certain months offer more favourable weather conditions and vibrant experiences.
✅ Ideal Travel Period: May to September
Why it’s the Best:
These months fall within the dry season for North Central Sri Lanka. Skies are mostly clear, humidity is manageable, and rainfall is minimal—perfect for exploring temples, ancient irrigation systems, and paddy fields without interruption.What to Do:
Visit Buddhist temples and ancient village shrines.
Walk through rice fields during the harvest season.
Attend local festivals and markets in full swing.
🌧️ Avoid the Heavy Monsoon: October to January
Inter-monsoon rains arrive during this period, making roads muddy and outdoor activities more difficult.
Flooding can occasionally occur, especially in low-lying agricultural areas.
🌿 Off-Season Benefits: February to April
Transition months with occasional showers but lush greenery.
Fewer tourists mean more authentic interactions with locals.
Ideal for nature photography and spiritual retreats.
🎉 Festivals & Cultural Highlights
Sinhala and Tamil New Year (April):
A beautiful time to witness traditional games, rituals, and community events.Paddy Harvest Season (August–September):
Experience traditional threshing methods and participate in local ceremonies.
📌 Summary Table
| Month | Weather | Experience Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| May–Sept | Dry & sunny | Ideal for sightseeing & farming life |
| Oct–Jan | Rainy & humid | Avoid due to monsoon rains |
| Feb–Apr | Mild, occasional rain | Green landscapes & festive ambience |
🧳 Travel Tips
Pack light cotton clothes and a hat for daytime heat.
Bring insect repellent, especially during the rainy season.
Use sun protection even on cloudy days.
Conclusion:
The best time to visit Lankapura is from May to September, when you can fully explore its historic, agricultural, and cultural charm under clear skies. For travellers seeking quiet retreats and rural experiences, even the off-season months offer unique rewards.
How to Reach Lankapura
Lankapura, located in Sri Lanka’s Polonnaruwa District, is a peaceful rural destination with easy access from Polonnaruwa town, Anuradhapura, and Dambulla. Although not directly connected to a railway line, well-maintained roads make it convenient for travelers. Below is a table with route distances, estimated travel times, and Google Maps links to help plan your visit to Lankapura efficiently.
| City | Distance | Estimated Time | Route Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colombo | 230 km | 5.5 – 6 hrs | |
| Polonnaruwa | 20 km | 30 min | |
| Anuradhapura | 75 km | 2 – 2.5 hrs | |
| Dambulla | 65 km | 1.5 – 2 hrs |
📍 Interactive Route Map
Geographical Overview – Lankapura
Province: North Central Province
District: Polonnaruwa District
Divisional Secretariat: Lankapura Divisional Secretariat
🗺️ Neighbouring Areas:
Polonnaruwa Town – A historic city with UNESCO World Heritage status, located southwest of Lankapura.
Welikanda – A key junction town providing access to the Batticaloa District via the A11 highway.
Dimbulagala – Known for its sacred monastery and dense forest reserve, located to the south.
Aralaganwila – An agricultural zone and gateway to Wasgamuwa National Park, southeast of Lankapura.
Thamankaduwa – A neighboring administrative division and commercial area near Polonnaruwa.
Pulasthigama – A local rural area with farming communities and irrigation systems.
📌 Summary:
Lankapura is centrally positioned within Polonnaruwa District, connecting several culturally significant and agriculturally rich regions. It lies within Sri Lanka’s dry zone, surrounded by irrigation tanks and paddy fields, making it an ideal location for both rural development and cultural tourism.
Local Economy and Agriculture – Lankapura
Lankapura’s economy is deeply rooted in agriculture, reflecting the essence of Sri Lanka’s rural heartland. As a prominent divisional secretariat in the Polonnaruwa District, Lankapura thrives on traditional farming, water management, and community-based trade practices.
🚜 Rice Farming – The Lifeblood of Lankapura
The majority of residents engage in paddy cultivation, with both Yala and Maha seasons being crucial to the local income. Farmers depend on ancient tanks (wewa) such as Jayabima Wewa and Sungavila Wewa, which continue to supply water through traditional canal systems. The land’s flat terrain and dry-zone climate make it ideal for large-scale rice production.
🌿 Chena Cultivation and Home Gardens
In addition to paddy fields, many villagers practice chena cultivation—a shifting agricultural method where crops like maize, cowpea, sesame, and green gram are grown. Families also maintain home gardens, growing vegetables, fruits, and herbs for personal use and local sale.
🐄 Livestock and Dairy Farming
Livestock plays a supporting role in the economy. Cattle and goats are raised for milk and meat, while poultry farming is becoming popular among smallholders seeking supplemental income. Locally produced buffalo curd and ghee are sought after in surrounding towns.
🛒 Village Markets and Cooperatives
Weekly pola (village markets) are vibrant economic centers where farmers sell fresh produce, grains, spices, and handmade goods. Agricultural cooperatives and government-backed programs provide credit facilities, seed distribution, and fertilizer subsidies to support rural livelihoods.
🌱 Emerging Trends
Lankapura is slowly embracing sustainable agriculture and organic farming techniques, with NGOs and government initiatives promoting composting, rainwater harvesting, and agro-tourism. Youth are also being introduced to smart farming and digital tools to modernize traditional methods.
✅ Summary:
The local economy of Lankapura is a blend of tradition and transition—deeply reliant on rice farming, strengthened by mixed agriculture, and poised for eco-friendly innovations. Its rural economy not only feeds the people but also preserves a way of life that is rich in knowledge and resilience.
Community and Culture – Lankapura
Lankapura is more than just a farming region—it is a vibrant and close-knit community that reflects the heart and soul of rural Sri Lanka. With strong cultural roots, time-honoured traditions, and a deep sense of unity, Lankapura’s residents proudly uphold values that have been passed down through generations.
🧑🌾 A Close-Knit Rural Community
The people of Lankapura are known for their warm hospitality, resilience, and communal lifestyle. Villages function as extended families, where neighbours support one another during festivals, harvests, and life events. Elders play a guiding role in community decisions, and many households span multiple generations.
🪔 Buddhist Heritage and Spiritual Life
Lankapura is deeply influenced by Buddhist teachings and rituals. Small village temples and ancient shrines are central to community life, serving as places for prayer, meditation, and gatherings. The Poya days are observed with temple visits and acts of merit, reinforcing spiritual harmony in daily routines.
🎉 Festivals and Celebrations
The community celebrates Sinhala and Tamil New Year (Avurudu) with traditional games, food, and rituals. Vesak, Poson, and Katina are marked with illuminated lanterns, almsgivings, and processions. These events strengthen community bonds and showcase cultural unity.
🎭 Arts, Crafts, and Oral Traditions
Though primarily agricultural, Lankapura nurtures local folk music, dance, and storytelling. Elder villagers often recount tales from the Mahavamsa or local folklore, preserving oral history. Handicrafts made from clay, coconut shells, and woven palmyrah are still practiced in some households.
📚 Education and Social Initiatives
Schools in Lankapura are central to both learning and community engagement. Local youth are encouraged to participate in environmental clubs, sports meets, and volunteer programs. Women’s societies and youth forums lead many grassroots projects, including literacy drives, clean-up campaigns, and cultural exhibitions.
✅ Summary:
The community of Lankapura is a shining example of rural Sri Lankan life—deeply spiritual, culturally rich, and socially united. Through festivals, temple traditions, education, and everyday kindness, Lankapura keeps its heritage alive while embracing the promise of progress.
Education and Public Facilities – Lankapura
Lankapura, though a rural region in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, is steadily advancing in education and public service infrastructure. The government’s efforts, along with community involvement, have helped foster an environment that supports basic education, healthcare, safety, and civic development for all residents.
🏫 Education: Nurturing the Next Generation
Lankapura is home to several government-run schools that serve the educational needs of children from primary to secondary levels. Institutions like Lankapura Central College, Sungavila Maha Vidyalaya, and Jayabima Vidyalaya provide free education under the national curriculum. These schools not only offer academic programs but also extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and environmental clubs.
To bridge the digital divide, ICT (Information and Communication Technology) labs have been introduced in selected schools, and community centers are being equipped with computers and internet access for youth education and job readiness.
🏥 Healthcare Services
While Lankapura does not have a large hospital, residents benefit from local Divisional Health Offices, MOH clinics, and rural hospitals such as Pulasthigama Rural Hospital. Basic services include maternal care, immunization, outpatient treatment, and health awareness programs.
For emergencies or specialized care, District General Hospital – Polonnaruwa is located within an accessible distance and offers advanced medical treatment, diagnostics, and inpatient facilities.
🚓 Safety and Administrative Services
Lankapura Police Station ensures public safety, conflict resolution, and law enforcement across the division. The presence of Grama Niladhari offices, Agricultural Extension Services, and Samurdhi Offices makes it easier for citizens to access welfare programs, subsidies, and legal documentation.
🏛️ Other Public Facilities
Public Libraries: Available within school premises or community centers for student use.
Post Offices and Banks: Provide basic communication and financial services, especially for farmers and pensioners.
Divisional Secretariat: The Lankapura Divisional Secretariat acts as the central hub for civil administration, issuing birth certificates, permits, and managing disaster response plans.
Community Halls: Host events, health clinics, training programs, and Avurudu festivals.
✅ Summary:
Lankapura’s public facilities and education system reflect a growing commitment to development in rural Sri Lanka. With improving schools, expanding healthcare, and accessible civic services, the region is empowering its community with the tools for a better future.
Community and Culture – Lankapura
Despite its rural setting, Lankapura is reasonably well-connected to major towns and cities in Sri Lanka’s North Central and Eastern regions. Whether you’re a local commuter, farmer transporting goods, or a traveler heading off the beaten path, Lankapura offers dependable transportation options and growing accessibility.
🛣️ Road Connectivity
Lankapura is accessible via a network of B-class and rural roads, many of which branch off from the A11 (Maradankadawala–Batticaloa Road) and nearby A06 (Habarana–Trincomalee Road). These roads link Lankapura to:
Polonnaruwa (20 km) – The nearest urban center with banks, supermarkets, and hospitals
Welikanda (15–20 km) – A junction point connecting to Batticaloa and Trincomalee
Dimbulagala & Aralaganwila – Nearby rural divisions with cultural and agricultural significance
Road conditions range from paved tar surfaces to gravel roads in interior villages, with recent improvements made under rural infrastructure programs.
🚐 Public Transport Options
SLTB Buses: State-run buses operate from Polonnaruwa and Welikanda to Lankapura daily, covering routes during school and office hours.
Private Vans & Taxis: Available for hire from Polonnaruwa town or nearby hubs.
Three-wheelers (Tuk-tuks): A common and affordable option for short-distance travel between villages, schools, markets, and clinics.
🚆 Rail Access
Lankapura itself does not have a railway station, but the closest station is:
Polonnaruwa Railway Station (on the Batticaloa Line) – Approx. 30 minutes away by road
Offers daily services to Colombo Fort, Batticaloa, Gal Oya, and Minneriya
🛩️ Nearest Airport
Hingurakgoda Domestic Airport (China Bay Air Base – VCCG)
Located about 40 km from Lankapura, it serves chartered flights and military operations.For international travel, Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Katunayake is approx. 220 km away.
✅ Summary
| Mode of Transport | Access Point | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| 🚗 By Road | Polonnaruwa (20 km) | ~30 mins |
| 🚆 By Train | Via Polonnaruwa Station | ~30–40 mins |
| ✈️ By Air | Hingurakgoda Domestic Airport | ~1 hr |
| 🚍 By Bus | SLTB & Private buses from Polonnaruwa | Frequent |
| 🛺 By Tuk-tuk | Local travel within Lankapura villages | Widely used |
Conclusion:
Lankapura may be off the tourist trail, but it is far from isolated. With road access to cultural cities, bus and rail connections, and growing infrastructure, it is a rural destination that remains reachable and welcoming to all types of travelers.
📸 Why Visit or Invest in Lankapura
Lankapura offers a unique combination of agricultural heritage, cultural depth, and sustainable community development — making it a promising destination for rural tourism and eco-friendly investment.
- 🌾 Agricultural stronghold: Surrounded by paddy fields and traditional irrigation tanks, Lankapura is a key rice-producing region.
- 🛕 Cultural and spiritual depth: Home to ancient Buddhist temples, rural shrines, and folklore that connect to Sri Lanka’s historic roots.
- 🚜 Rural authenticity: Experience village life, home gardens, and traditional festivals in a peaceful, nature-filled setting.
- 🌱 Emerging opportunities: Ideal for eco-tourism, organic farming, and community-based projects with growing youth engagement.
Discover Lankapura — where timeless culture meets tomorrow’s green potential.