Oddusuddan is a tranquil village located in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, within the Ampara District. It is known for its rural charm, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. The village is predominantly inhabited by agricultural communities who rely on farming as their primary livelihood. Paddy cultivation, along with other crops like coconut, vegetables, and fruits, plays a central role in the local economy.
One of the key features of Oddusuddan is its close-knit community, where family ties and traditions are deeply rooted. The people of Oddusuddan live a simple, peaceful life, often characterized by the rhythm of agricultural activities. The village also serves as a gateway to nearby tourist destinations in the Ampara District, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic rural Sri Lanka, with its open fields, rustic lifestyle, and natural beauty.
The area is home to various places of cultural and religious significance, with Buddhist temples and shrines scattered throughout the region. These religious sites are places of tranquility, where locals and visitors alike seek solace and spiritual connection. Furthermore, Oddusuddan is strategically located near key roads, making it accessible to surrounding towns and cities.
For tourists, Oddusuddan offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of urban life, with activities such as nature walks, village tours, and exploration of the region’s agricultural practices. The warm hospitality of the villagers makes it a welcoming destination for those looking to experience the authentic charm of rural Sri Lanka. Visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty, including nearby rivers and forests, which provide excellent opportunities for eco-tourism and wildlife watching.
Total Population
17,000
GN Divisions
27
🌊 Why is Oddusuddan – Sri Lanka Unique?
Oddusuddan, located in the beautiful northern region of Sri Lanka, is known for its vibrant rural lifestyle, agricultural prosperity, and rich cultural heritage. This area offers a perfect blend of traditional Tamil customs, scenic beauty, and a strong sense of community pride.
🛕 Cultural Significance and Traditions
Oddusuddan is home to a rich cultural heritage, with numerous Hindu temples and vibrant festivals celebrated throughout the year. The community takes pride in the colorful celebrations of Tamil New Year, harvest festivals, and religious rituals.
🛣️ Strategic Location
Positioned strategically between major agricultural hubs, Oddusuddan connects various farming communities, facilitating trade and cultural exchange. The location serves as an important center for rural development and regional connectivity.
🌾 Agriculture and Sustainability
Agriculture is the heart of Oddusuddan, with the fertile soil supporting rice cultivation, vegetable farming, and coconut plantations. The community practices sustainable farming techniques that have been passed down through generations.
🤝 Community and Unity
The people of Oddusuddan are known for their strong sense of community and unity. Through challenging times, they continue to work together to preserve their traditions and build a brighter future for the next generation.
🏗️ Progress and Development
Oddusuddan is gradually progressing, with a focus on infrastructure development, improving living standards, and enhancing local services. The development plans aim to maintain a balance between modernity and the area's agricultural and cultural roots.
GN Codes and Names in English
| GN Code | Name in English |
|---|---|
| 005 | Ampagamam |
| 010 | Ganesapuram |
| 015 | Ithupuram |
| 020 | Kanakaradnapuram |
| 025 | Karuvalankandal |
| 030 | Kachchilaimadu |
| 035 | Kathaliyarsamalankulam |
| 040 | Koolamurippu |
| 045 | Manavalanpaddamurippu |
| 050 | Mankulam |
| 055 | Muththaiyankaddukulam |
| 060 | Muththuvinayakapuram |
| 065 | Oddusuddan |
| 070 | Olumadu |
| 075 | Othiyamalai |
| 080 | Palampasi |
| 085 | Pandaravanni |
| 090 | Panikkankulam |
| 095 | Peraru |
| 100 | Periyaiththimadu |
| 105 | Periyakulam |
| 110 | Puliyankulam |
| 115 | Thachchadampan |
| 120 | Thanduvan |
| 125 | Thaddayamalai |
| 130 | Thirumurukandy |
| 135 | Vithiyapuram |
Population Growth of Oddusuddan (2012 - 2024)
| Year | Population | Estimated Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 15,721 | - |
| 2024 (Estimate) | ~17,000 | ~8.1% |
Oddusuddan Contact Information
Location: Oddusuddan Police Station, Northern Province, Sri Lanka
Contact Number: 0213 202 417
Location: Oddusuddan Hospital, Northern Province, Sri Lanka
Contact Number: · 0212 061 727
Best Time to Visit Oddusuddan, Sri Lanka
Oddusuddan, located in the northern region of Sri Lanka, offers a peaceful retreat with its natural beauty. The best time to visit Oddusuddan depends on weather patterns, festivals, and activities you wish to enjoy. Here’s a guide to help you plan your visit to Oddusuddan.
The best time to visit Oddusuddan is during the **dry season** from **May to September**. The weather during these months is warm with less rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as exploring temples, enjoying the countryside, and visiting local farms. The temperatures range from 27°C to 32°C, offering pleasant conditions for sightseeing and leisurely walks.
The **monsoon season** runs from **October to December**, bringing heavy rainfall. While this may limit some outdoor activities, the monsoon season enhances the lush greenery of the area, making it ideal for photography and those seeking the countryside in its most vibrant state. However, occasional flooding and travel difficulties can occur in rural areas.
The **shoulder season**, from **January to April**, offers moderate weather and fewer crowds. The temperature is cooler, ranging from 25°C to 30°C, making it comfortable for exploring local attractions without the intense summer heat. It’s a great time for quieter experiences with a mix of clear skies and light rain.
If you wish to experience local culture, visit Oddusuddan during major **Hindu festivals**, such as **Tamil New Year (April)** or the **Navaratri festival (September/October)**. These events bring vibrant cultural celebrations, with decorated temples and traditional dances, rituals, and processions that animate the village.
Oddusuddan offers stunning sunrise and sunset views. Early mornings are perfect for a peaceful stroll through the fields or visiting temples, while evenings offer breathtaking sunsets over paddy fields and distant hills. Make sure to be outdoors during these hours to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
How to Reach Oddusuddan
Oddusuddan, located in the Kilinochchi District of Northern Sri Lanka, is a culturally rich region with lush landscapes, farming communities, and Tamil heritage. It is easily accessible by road from other major cities in Sri Lanka.
| City | Distance | Estimated Time | Route Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jaffna | 20 km | 30 – 35 mins | |
| Colombo | 420 km | 8 – 9 hrs | |
| Kilinochchi | 80 km | 1.5 – 2 hrs | |
| Vavuniya | 160 km | 3.5 – 4 hrs | |
| Mannar | 135 km | 3 – 3.5 hrs |
🗺️ Interactive Route Map
Geographical Overview of Oddusuddan, Sri Lanka
Oddusuddan is a rural area located in the Kilinochchi District of northern Sri Lanka. The region is known for its fertile lands, rich agricultural resources, and proximity to the coastal regions. As part of the Jaffna Peninsula, Oddusuddan plays a vital role in the local economy through agriculture and fishing.
Oddusuddan is situated along the northwestern coastline of Sri Lanka, with lush agricultural fields surrounding the area. The landscape is characterized by expansive paddy fields, coconut groves, and scenic views of the ocean. The terrain is primarily flat with a few rolling hills in the surrounding areas, offering beautiful vistas of nature and rural life.
Oddusuddan experiences a tropical climate, with high temperatures throughout the year, ranging from 25°C to 32°C. The region sees two monsoon seasons: the **Northeast Monsoon** (from October to January), which brings heavy rainfall, and the **Southwest Monsoon** (from May to September), which provides additional moisture. The dry season, from March to September, is the best time for outdoor activities and travel.
Oddusuddan is strategically located, approximately **20 km** from **Mannar**, a town known for its historical significance and coastal beauty. The area is also around **90 km** away from **Jaffna**, the cultural capital of the Northern Province. The town’s proximity to **Kilinochchi** (approximately 80 km) connects it to other major towns in the region.
The fertile soil of Oddusuddan supports a variety of crops, including rice, vegetables, and coconuts. Fishing is another significant activity in the region due to its coastal location. Local lakes and rivers provide fresh water for agriculture, and the surrounding natural environment contributes to the biodiversity of the area, with a variety of plant and animal species.
Oddusuddan is located near several noteworthy attractions, including the historic **Mannar Fort**, the **Ramanathan Pillaiyar Kovil**, and the scenic **Mannar Island**. The surrounding areas offer opportunities for eco-tourism, including bird watching and fishing trips.
Local Economy and Agriculture – Oddusuddan
Oddusuddan, located in the Kilinochchi District of Northern Sri Lanka, has a thriving agricultural sector that plays a crucial role in the local economy. The region’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with rice farming, coconut cultivation, and vegetable farming forming the backbone of the local livelihood. The coastal proximity also allows for a strong fishing industry, contributing to the region's economic vitality.
Agriculture in Oddusuddan is characterized by the cultivation of staple crops like **rice**, **coconuts**, and a variety of **vegetables**. The fertile lands, nourished by the region's natural irrigation systems and the proximity to freshwater lakes, make it ideal for large-scale rice production. Paddy fields stretch across much of the area, and local farmers primarily practice traditional farming methods.
In addition to rice, **coconut farming** is a significant part of Oddusuddan's agricultural economy. Coconut trees are found across the region, and their products, such as copra and coconut oil, are essential to the local market. The region also cultivates **tropical fruits** like bananas, papayas, and mangoes. These crops are vital not only for local consumption but also for trade with neighboring regions.
Being located near the northern coastline, **fishing** is a major source of income in Oddusuddan. The coastal waters are rich in fish, and local fishermen use traditional methods to catch a variety of fish and seafood. Fish such as **tuna**, **mackerel**, and **prawns** are regularly caught and sold in local markets or transported to larger towns for further distribution. Fishing also supports related industries, including seafood processing and export.
Apart from crop farming and fishing, livestock farming also plays an important role in the local economy. Many residents engage in **dairy farming**, raising cattle for milk production, which is a staple in the local diet. **Goat farming** and **poultry** are also common, with the meat and eggs providing additional sources of income for the farmers.
The majority of the population in Oddusuddan is employed in agriculture, with many working directly on farms, plantations, or in related industries like coconut processing and fishing. **Small businesses** are also growing in the region, with local shops selling agricultural produce, fishing gear, and household items. Oddusuddan is becoming a regional hub for trade in agricultural goods, with roads and infrastructure gradually improving to facilitate better connectivity and economic growth.
Education and Public Facilities – Oddusuddan
Oddusuddan, located in the Kilinochchi District, Sri Lanka, offers a range of educational and public facilities that support the community's growth and development. Education, healthcare, and essential services are key aspects of life in the region, ensuring that the people have access to basic needs and opportunities for advancement.
Education plays a vital role in Oddusuddan, with several **government schools** offering primary and secondary education to children. Local schools cater to the educational needs of the Tamil community, providing a foundation for students to pursue further education. The **Oddusuddan Government School** is one of the major institutions that provide free education, following the national curriculum.
In addition to government-run schools, there are also a number of **private tuition centers** that offer supplementary education to students, particularly in subjects such as mathematics, languages, and science. However, access to higher education remains a challenge due to limited infrastructure, and many students pursue **tertiary education** in nearby towns such as **Kilinochchi** and **Jaffna**, where universities and vocational training centers are located.
Healthcare in Oddusuddan is provided primarily by the **Oddusuddan Hospital**, which offers basic medical services, including general checkups, maternity care, vaccinations, and emergency treatment. The hospital serves as the first point of contact for medical care in the region, though more specialized treatment is available in larger hospitals in **Kilinochchi** and **Jaffna**.
In addition to the hospital, there are **community health centers** that offer preventive care and treatment for common illnesses. The **Sri Lanka Red Cross Society** also provides support for health campaigns, particularly for **vector-borne diseases** and sanitation programs, ensuring that the community remains healthy and safe.
**Access to clean drinking water** has been a major focus in Oddusuddan, with ongoing efforts to improve water supply systems. The local authorities have implemented a **pipe-borne water system** that provides safe drinking water to many parts of the village, although some rural areas may still rely on **bore wells**.
Sanitation facilities, including public toilets and waste management systems, have also been improved in recent years. However, challenges remain, especially in more remote areas, where the infrastructure may be underdeveloped.
Oddusuddan is well-connected to nearby towns like **Kilinochchi**, **Jaffna**, and **Mannar** via the **A9 highway**, which is the main route for travelers and goods. Local **buses** and **three-wheeler taxis** are common modes of transportation, ensuring easy access to the surrounding regions.
The village is also close to **Kilinochchi Railway Station**, which connects it to the rest of the island via Sri Lanka's railway network, providing further accessibility for education, healthcare, and work opportunities.
Transportation and Accessibility – Oddusuddan
Oddusuddan, located in the Kilinochchi District of Northern Sri Lanka, enjoys strategic connectivity to the rest of the island through various transportation networks. The region is easily accessible by road, rail, and other means of transportation, which ensures that both locals and visitors can travel to and from the area conveniently.
The main road connecting **Oddusuddan** to other towns is the **A9 Highway**, which is part of the central arterial road network running from **Colombo** to **Jaffna**. This highway is crucial for connecting the northern regions of Sri Lanka, making Oddusuddan easily accessible by **private vehicles**, **buses**, and **three-wheelers**.
**Local bus services** provide convenient travel within the region and to nearby towns like **Kilinochchi**, **Jaffna**, and **Mannar**. Buses are frequent and affordable, serving as a primary mode of transportation for daily commutes.
**Oddusuddan** benefits from its proximity to the **Kilinochchi Railway Station**, which is part of the **Sri Lanka Railways** network. The railway offers an essential service connecting the **northern provinces** with the **south** of Sri Lanka. The trains from **Kilinochchi** travel to major stations like **Colombo**, **Anuradhapura**, and **Jaffna**, allowing easy access for long-distance travel.
The **Kilinochchi Railway Station** is a key transportation hub for the region, and residents of Oddusuddan frequently use it to travel for work, education, and business purposes.
In addition to buses, **private vans** and **shared taxis** are common for short-distance travel within the region. These services are affordable and often serve areas not directly accessible by larger buses.
While **Oddusuddan** does not have its own airport, the nearest airport is the **Jaffna International Airport**, located approximately **80 km** away from the village. The airport offers domestic flights that connect the region to **Colombo** and other parts of Sri Lanka, making it convenient for those traveling by air.
**Oddusuddan** is close to the coast, and although there is limited water transport infrastructure, the region is accessible via small boats and ferries to nearby **Oddusuddan Port** for **fishing** and **local trade** activities. The sea routes are particularly important for the fishing community in the area.
The local infrastructure in **Oddusuddan** continues to improve with efforts to enhance **road conditions** and **public transport networks**. In addition to transportation, the area is also working on expanding **telecommunication networks** and **internet connectivity**, ensuring that residents and businesses remain connected to the broader region.
Emerging Rural Enterprises – Oddusuddan
Oddusuddan, a rural region located in the Kilinochchi District of Sri Lanka, has seen a rise in innovative and sustainable enterprises in recent years. These emerging businesses are reshaping the local economy and providing new opportunities for the community. From agriculture to local handicrafts, here’s an overview of the growing rural enterprises in Oddusuddan.
**Agriculture** remains the backbone of the economy in Oddusuddan, but new trends in **organic farming** and **agri-businesses** are on the rise. Many local farmers have shifted towards more sustainable and organic farming practices, producing fruits, vegetables, and grains that are sold in **local markets** and even **exported** to larger towns and cities. Additionally, the demand for **organic coconut products** such as oil and flour has led to the creation of small-scale coconut processing businesses.
Being close to the coast, **fishing** is a major industry in Oddusuddan. In addition to traditional fishing, there are emerging **seafood processing** enterprises that help improve the value of locally caught fish and seafood. Small **fish processing units** have been established, providing employment for the local community and adding value to the local catch. This enterprise is now moving towards exporting dried fish, seafood snacks, and processed fish products to larger markets.
Oddusuddan is also seeing the rise of **handicraft enterprises**, where local artisans create traditional products such as **woven baskets**, **handmade jewelry**, and **cloth-based items** like saris and shawls. These items, often made using **locally sourced materials**, reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. With the support of **local tourism**, these crafts are now being marketed outside of the region, contributing to both cultural preservation and economic growth.
**Eco-tourism** is another emerging sector in Oddusuddan. Entrepreneurs in the region are focusing on sustainable tourism that highlights the natural beauty of the area, including its beaches, lagoons, and rural landscapes. Small **eco-friendly lodges** and **nature tours** have been established, catering to tourists interested in experiencing authentic Sri Lankan village life while respecting environmental sustainability. These eco-tourism ventures also create employment and raise awareness about environmental conservation.
In addition to traditional industries, there is a rise in **small businesses** and **startups** in sectors such as **retail**, **hospitality**, and **IT services**. Local entrepreneurs are opening small shops that sell handmade goods, local produce, and even provide services like **tailoring** and **mechanical repair**. Some startups are beginning to focus on **technology-driven services**, including **mobile app development** and **digital marketing** for local businesses. These small businesses are critical to diversifying the local economy.
To support the growing agricultural sector, several **agricultural cooperatives** have been established in the region. These cooperatives allow local farmers to pool resources, share equipment, and access bulk purchasing, making farming more cost-effective and productive. Additionally, the **government** and **NGOs** provide **financial support** and **training programs** to help local entrepreneurs in agriculture and fisheries improve their techniques and expand their markets.
🛏️ Search Places to Stay in Oddusuddan
📸 Why Visit or Invest in Oddusuddan
Oddusuddan, located in the Kilinochchi District of Sri Lanka’s Northern Province, is a rural gem blending agriculture, fishing, and cultural tourism. Its peaceful environment, agricultural lands, and welcoming communities make it ideal for eco-tourism, rural businesses, and sustainable investments.
- 🚤 Strategic Location: Easily accessible from Kilinochchi and nearby towns, close to scenic landscapes and agricultural hubs. Ideal for agro-tourism, eco-resorts, and fishing-based industries.
- 🏝️ Natural & Scenic Attractions: Known for its lush agricultural fields, lagoons, and eco-friendly landscapes. Perfect for nature walks, birdwatching, and eco-tourism.
- 🌾 Agriculture & Fisheries: The area is known for coconut farming, paddy cultivation, and fishing. Strong potential for value-added agro products and seafood.
- 🏡 Community & Cultural Tourism: Opportunities for homestays, local festivals, cycling tours, and cultural experiences with Tamil farming communities.
Whether you are a traveller, entrepreneur, or investor, Oddusuddan offers a harmonious mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and promising investment prospects.