Sooriyawewa is a developing town located in the Hambantota District of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province. Known for its peaceful rural setting and agricultural heritage, Sooriyawewa has gained national attention as the home of the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, attracting sports enthusiasts and tourists alike. The town is surrounded by scenic paddy fields, reservoirs, and traditional villages, offering a glimpse into authentic southern Sri Lankan life. Over the years, Sooriyawewa has seen significant development in infrastructure, education, and transport, making it a key location in the region’s growth. Its strategic position near the Mattala International Airport and the Hambantota Port further enhances its importance. Whether you’re visiting for cricket, cultural exploration, or rural charm, Sooriyawewa provides a welcoming atmosphere and growing opportunities. The town continues to balance progress with its strong community values and natural beauty, making it a rising destination in southern Sri Lanka.
Total Population
52,098
GN Divisions
21
Sooriyawewa: Growing Heritage and Sporting Pride – A Dynamic Town in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province
Located in the Hambantota District of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, Sooriyawewa is a semi-urban town that blends rural charm with modern development. Known for its scenic reservoirs, agricultural traditions, and national cricketing significance, Sooriyawewa offers a unique mix of quiet countryside life and emerging infrastructure. The area is surrounded by dry zone vegetation, peaceful villages, and irrigation tanks that sustain farming and daily life.
Home of National Sporting Spirit
One of Sooriyawewa’s standout features is the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, a world-class venue that hosts local and international matches. This landmark has placed the town on the national map, drawing visitors, players, and sports fans to its peaceful setting. Beyond cricket, Sooriyawewa holds a strong connection to farming communities, temples, and nature-based livelihoods.
Agriculture, Culture, and Daily Life
Farming is central to life in Sooriyawewa, with paddy, chena cultivation, vegetables, and fruits making up most of the economic activity. The town is known for its community-based living, where neighbours support each other and traditions are passed from generation to generation. Temples and religious centres serve as focal points for events, rituals, and festivals. A calm but productive daily rhythm defines life here.
A Town in Transition – Services and Infrastructure
Sooriyawewa is undergoing steady development, with schools, healthcare centres, government offices, and local businesses improving access to services. The Sooriyawewa Divisional Secretariat plays a key role in managing growth, local governance, and support for farming and welfare programs. New roads, marketplaces, and public service centres are uplifting the area’s living standards.
Nature, Simplicity, and Local Warmth
Despite development, the town preserves its natural beauty and rural simplicity. Visitors will encounter water reservoirs like Ranmuduwewa and Weliwewa, green home gardens, and the warm hospitality of the local people. Wildlife, migratory birds, and village customs all coexist, offering photographers and explorers a peaceful landscape to appreciate.
Getting to Sooriyawewa – Access and Transport
🚖 By Taxi/Ride-Hailing – Located about 25–30 minutes from Hambantota town and easily accessible by private vehicle.
🚌 By Bus – Connected via regional bus services running between Hambantota, Ambalantota, Sooriyawewa, and Matara.
🚆 By Train – The nearest railway stations include Beliatta and Matara, with onward buses or tuk-tuks to Sooriyawewa.
| GN Code | Name |
|---|---|
| 005 | Ihala Kumbukwewa |
| 010 | Mahagalwewa |
| 015 | Meegaha Jandura |
| 020 | Ranmuduwewa |
| 025 | Weliwewa |
| 030 | Suravirugama |
| 035 | Samajasewapura |
| 040 | Weeriyagama |
| 045 | Hathporuwa |
| 050 | Weniwal Ara |
| 055 | Aliolu Ara |
| 060 | Sooriyawewa Town |
| 065 | Viharagala |
| 070 | Beddewewa |
| 075 | Mahawelikada Ara |
| 080 | Andarawewa |
| 085 | Namadagaswewa |
| 090 | Mahapelessa |
| 095 | Bediganthota |
| 100 | Habaraththawala |
| 105 | Wediwewa |
| Service | Contact Number | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|
| 🚓 Sooriyawewa Police Station | +94 47 223 0022 | Ensures public safety, law enforcement, and traffic regulation within Sooriyawewa and neighboring areas. Assists with community policing and emergency response. |
| 🏥 Divisional Hospital – Sooriyawewa | +94 47 223 0250 | Government healthcare facility offering outpatient care, emergency services, maternity support, and inpatient facilities. Covers most surrounding GN divisions. |
| 🏥 Private Medical Clinic – Sooriyawewa Town | Varies by provider | Several small private clinics operate in the town center providing general consultations, diagnostics, and minor medical services. |
| 🏛️ Sooriyawewa Divisional Secretariat | +94 47 223 0230 | Main local government administrative body managing public services, development projects, welfare programs, and citizen records. |
| 🧾 MOH Office – Sooriyawewa | +94 47 223 0295 | Coordinates maternal and child healthcare, public vaccination campaigns, dengue prevention, and sanitation inspections across the division. |
Best Time to Visit Sooriyawewa
The best time to visit Sooriyawewa is from December to April, during the dry season in Sri Lanka’s southern region. This period features warm, sunny weather with average temperatures ranging from 27°C to 32°C, making it ideal for sightseeing, rural exploration, and attending events at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium. The dry conditions also support outdoor farming visits and peaceful walks near reservoirs and paddy fields.
From May to September, the Yala monsoon brings occasional rain and overcast skies. While showers may affect some outdoor plans, this is a great time to witness the greenery of Sooriyawewa’s agricultural zones, including chena lands and tank-fed rice fields. Cultural activities, indoor visits, and slow-paced village life are best enjoyed during this period.
October and November serve as transitional months with mixed weather, including light rains and cooler breezes. Fewer tourists visit during this time, offering a more peaceful experience. Overall, the months from December to April provide the most favourable climate for exploring the scenic, cultural, and sporting highlights of Sooriyawewa.
How to Reach – Sooriyawewa
Sooriyawewa is a prominent town in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, situated within the Hambantota District. Known for its rural charm, cricket stadium, and developing infrastructure, it is easily accessible from key southern towns and cities. Whether you’re arriving to attend a match at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium or explore its cultural and agricultural roots, this guide will help you navigate the routes.
| City | Distance | Estimated Travel Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hambantota | 26 km | 30 – 35 mins | |
| Ambalantota | 23 km | 25 – 30 mins | |
| Tangalle | 45 km | 1 – 1.2 hrs | |
| Matara | 85 km | 1.5 – 2 hrs | |
| Colombo Fort | 225 km | 4 – 5 hrs |
Interactive Map
Geographical Overview – Sooriyawewa
Sooriyawewa is a semi-urban town situated in the Hambantota District of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province. Located about 26 km from Hambantota town, it lies within Sri Lanka’s dry zone and is surrounded by reservoirs, chena farms, and rural settlements. The area is known for its flat dry terrain, interspersed with irrigation canals and tanks such as Ranmuduwewa and Weliwewa, which support extensive farming activities. The town’s strategic location between Hambantota, Ambalantota, and Beliatta makes it a well-connected hub, especially due to the presence of the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium. Sooriyawewa’s environment combines traditional agricultural heritage with emerging infrastructure, offering both cultural richness and modern development potential.
Administrative Information
- Province: Southern Province
- District: Hambantota District
- Divisional Secretariat: Sooriyawewa Divisional Secretariat
- Neighbouring Areas: Hambantota, Ambalantota, Beliatta, Angunukolapelessa
Local Economy and Services – Sooriyawewa
Sooriyawewa’s economy is primarily driven by agriculture, with paddy cultivation, vegetable farming, and chena (slash-and-burn) agriculture forming the backbone of local livelihoods. The area is also known for dry zone farming supported by irrigation tanks such as Weliwewa and Ranmuduwewa. Livestock farming, particularly cattle and poultry, plays a vital role in household incomes. In addition to agriculture, small-scale trading, transport services, and food stalls contribute to the town’s growing economic diversity.
Public services in Sooriyawewa include the Divisional Hospital – Sooriyawewa, several private clinics, and the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) office responsible for public health campaigns and sanitation. Educational needs are met by a number of government schools, while vocational and technical education is accessible in nearby Hambantota. The Sooriyawewa Divisional Secretariat manages local governance, infrastructure, and social service programs for the region.
The town is connected to the wider Hambantota District by well-maintained roads and regular bus services. Sooriyawewa also benefits from its strategic proximity to the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport and the Mahinda Rajapaksa Cricket Stadium, attracting both visitors and investment. Despite development, the area retains its rural charm and strong community spirit rooted in agriculture and local enterprise.
Community and Culture – Sooriyawewa
Sooriyawewa is home to a strong and resilient rural community deeply connected to the land and traditional practices. The majority of the population consists of Sinhalese Buddhists, with Tamil and Muslim minorities contributing to the area’s multicultural identity. Families here often live close to one another, maintaining close-knit relationships that support agricultural work, social events, and religious observances.
Community life revolves around Buddhist temples, with major events such as Vesak, Poson, and temple peraheras bringing people together in celebration and devotion. Small Christian and Islamic places of worship also serve local families, promoting interfaith harmony and social unity. Cultural values such as hospitality, mutual respect, and support for elders are deeply embedded in everyday life.
Sooriyawewa also celebrates traditional arts through folk music, harvest rituals, and village sports events. Schoolchildren often engage in dance, singing, and sports competitions held during Avurudu (New Year) and other seasonal festivals. These shared activities promote social cohesion and provide youth with opportunities for leadership and cultural expression, making Sooriyawewa a culturally vibrant part of southern Sri Lanka.
Festivals & Culture – Sooriyawewa
Sooriyawewa, located in the dry zone of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, proudly upholds the island’s rich cultural and religious traditions. The community is predominantly Sinhalese Buddhist, with Tamil and Muslim populations contributing to its vibrant cultural fabric. Major annual celebrations include Vesak, Poson, Esala Perahera, Sinhala and Tamil New Year, Ramadan, and Deepavali, fostering unity across faiths and generations.
Vesak and Poson bring the temples of Sooriyawewa to life with glowing lanterns, devotional songs, and storytelling displays. Free dansal (alms-giving) stalls reflect the values of generosity and community service. The Esala Perahera, held at local temples and cultural centers, features traditional dancers, drummers, and processions that light up the village with colour and sound. Muslim and Hindu communities mark Ramadan, Eid, and Deepavali with prayers, feasts, and gatherings that highlight Sooriyawewa’s religious harmony.
The Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a major highlight in April, celebrated with joy through traditional games, cooking rituals, and community visits. Schools and village centers organize cultural events showcasing dance, drama, and music. From harvest festivals to temple feasts and school concerts, Sooriyawewa's calendar is filled with moments that strengthen cultural identity, faith, and the spirit of togetherness.
Transportation and Connectivity – Sooriyawewa
Sooriyawewa, located in the Hambantota District of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, enjoys good connectivity via a network of regional roads and highways. The town lies inland from Hambantota and Ambalantota, with primary access routes including the Sooriyawewa–Hambantota Road and links to the A2 coastal highway. Its central position makes it a convenient transit point to southern hubs, agricultural zones, and sports venues like the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium.
Public transport is available through frequent bus services that connect Sooriyawewa with Hambantota, Ambalantota, Beliatta, and Embilipitiya. Within the town and surrounding GN divisions, tuk-tuks and motorbikes are widely used for short trips, daily errands, and accessing farms and local services. Many residents also rely on private vehicles for commuting and transporting goods to regional markets.
While Sooriyawewa does not have a railway station, the nearest stations are in Beliatta and Mattala (Airport railway link), reachable by road in 30–45 minutes. From these stations, travelers can access the Southern railway line that connects to Matara, Galle, and Colombo. Additionally, Sooriyawewa is within close proximity to the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA), enhancing its air travel access. Overall, the town offers dependable transport options for both locals and visitors.
Environmental Significance and Sustainability – Sooriyawewa
Sooriyawewa, located in Sri Lanka’s dry zone within the Hambantota District, is known for its dry plains, tank-irrigated paddy fields, chena cultivation, and scattered scrub forests. These ecosystems are crucial for maintaining biodiversity in the region, supporting native flora, migratory birds, and small wildlife species adapted to arid environments. Large irrigation reservoirs like Weliwewa and Ranmuduwewa not only sustain agriculture but also contribute to local groundwater replenishment and aquatic habitats.
The community is increasingly embracing sustainable agricultural methods such as crop rotation, organic fertilizer use, and natural pest control. Water conservation practices are vital in this dry region, and many farmers use regulated irrigation to minimise waste. Locals also participate in reforestation campaigns and awareness programs promoting the reduction of plastic pollution and responsible land use.
Environmental education is integrated into school curriculums, and youth groups often lead cleanup drives and awareness events. By blending traditional dry-zone farming wisdom with modern sustainability efforts, Sooriyawewa is gradually building a resilient, eco-conscious community that balances rural development with environmental stewardship.
Tourism and Attractions – Sooriyawewa
Sooriyawewa, nestled in the dry zone of Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, offers a unique blend of rural charm and modern landmarks. While not a mainstream tourist destination, it attracts visitors with its serene agricultural landscapes, traditional lifestyle, and cultural significance. Sooriyawewa is ideal for travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences in Sri Lanka’s hinterlands.
A highlight of Sooriyawewa is the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, which hosts national and international matches, drawing sports fans from across the country. Beyond the stadium, visitors can explore peaceful Buddhist temples, traditional chena farms, and irrigation reservoirs such as Weliwewa and Ranmuduwewa. These settings offer insights into local farming methods, dry-zone ecology, and community traditions.
Sooriyawewa also provides access to broader regional attractions such as the Bundala National Park, Hambantota coastal belt, and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport. Visitors interested in eco-tourism, birdwatching, or cultural exploration can use Sooriyawewa as a quiet base to explore southern Sri Lanka. With its authentic rural atmosphere and emerging facilities, Sooriyawewa offers a refreshing contrast to the island’s coastal tourism zones.
Education and Institutions – Sooriyawewa
Sooriyawewa, a steadily developing town in the Hambantota District, recognises education as a vital pillar for regional progress. The area is served by several key schools including Sooriyawewa National School and a range of primary and secondary government schools across its GN divisions. These institutions focus on academic excellence, personal development, and promoting participation in extracurricular activities such as sports and cultural events.
Students in Sooriyawewa have access to subjects in science, mathematics, arts, commerce, and ICT. Supplementary education is provided through private tuition classes, English language institutes, and after-school programs. Vocational training centers in nearby towns such as Hambantota, Ambalantota, and Embilipitiya offer skill-based education in agriculture, mechanics, IT, and construction, empowering youth to pursue diverse career paths.
Education in Sooriyawewa is strongly supported by community involvement. Parents, teachers, and local leaders collaborate in organising school events, environmental initiatives, and cultural competitions. With increasing emphasis on digital literacy and life skills, Sooriyawewa is nurturing a generation of students who are well-prepared to contribute to the sustainable growth of the region and beyond.
Healthcare and Medical Services – Sooriyawewa
Sooriyawewa provides essential healthcare services through a network of public hospitals, private clinics, and community-based health initiatives. The primary public facility is the Divisional Hospital – Sooriyawewa, which offers outpatient services, maternal and child health care, emergency treatment, and basic inpatient facilities. This hospital serves residents across multiple GN divisions in the region, ensuring access to critical medical support.
The Medical Officer of Health (MOH) Office – Sooriyawewa coordinates vital public health services such as immunization drives, dengue control, sanitation awareness, and nutrition programs. Several private medical clinics, dispensaries, and pharmacies operate within the town, providing general consultations, minor procedures, and access to prescribed medicines. In addition, some residents rely on Ayurvedic centers for traditional herbal treatments and holistic wellness approaches.
For advanced diagnostics and specialist care, patients often travel to major hospitals in Hambantota, Embilipitiya, or the Teaching Hospital – Karapitiya in Galle. With a mix of government-supported services, private options, and traditional healing practices, Sooriyawewa ensures that its growing population has access to reliable and inclusive healthcare.
Why Visit Sooriyawewa – Heritage, Sport & Rural Life
Sooriyawewa, located in Sri Lanka’s sun-drenched Southern Province, is a unique destination where rural tradition, natural beauty, and national pride converge. Known for its dry-zone agricultural charm, traditional lifestyles, and the iconic Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, Sooriyawewa offers a refreshing blend of community warmth and modern relevance.
Whether you're strolling through chena fields, exploring quiet village roads, or attending a live cricket match, Sooriyawewa offers visitors a chance to connect with the authentic rhythm of life in Sri Lanka’s heartland. Local reservoirs, temples, and seasonal festivals highlight the area’s cultural and environmental richness. Far from the crowded tourist trails, Sooriyawewa welcomes you with its grounded simplicity, friendly residents, and the promise of meaningful, off-the-beaten-path experiences.