Horana is a vibrant town located in the Kalutara District of Sri Lanka’s Western Province. Positioned strategically on the Colombo–Ratnapura Road (A8), it serves as a key hub connecting the coastal and central regions. Known for its scenic surroundings and economic activity, Horana is a blend of urban convenience and rural charm. The town is home to various government institutions, schools, and health services, making it a central hub for residents in the area. Horana is also home to several prominent educational institutions, including the University of Moratuwa – Faculty of Technology. The local economy thrives on trade, agriculture, and small-scale industries, while markets and retail shops support daily life. Cultural and religious events are deeply rooted in the community, with Buddhist temples and traditional festivals adding to the town’s rich identity. Its proximity to Colombo makes Horana an attractive destination for both settlement and day visits.
Total Population
112,441
GN Divisions
61
Horana: Suburban Charm, Greenery, and Growing Urban Life
A Thriving Town in the Heart of Kalutara District
Nestled in the Kalutara District of Sri Lanka’s Western Province, Horana blends semi-urban development with a lush, green environment. Located approximately 50 km southeast of Colombo, this fast-growing town is gaining recognition for its educational institutions, scenic countryside, and strong community values. Horana serves as a gateway between Colombo and rural Southern Sri Lanka, offering a peaceful yet well-connected lifestyle.
Cultural Identity and Local Spirit
Horana maintains strong cultural roots and a warm community spirit. The town is home to several Buddhist temples, such as Purana Rankoth Viharaya and Sri Rathanasiri Pirivena, which serve as centres for spiritual learning and local events. Cultural celebrations including Vesak, Esala Poya, and annual temple peraheras (processions) bring people together in joyful devotion and tradition.
Modern Infrastructure and Urban Convenience
Horana is evolving with urban development while retaining its natural charm. The town features supermarkets, banks, public markets, clothing stores, and new housing schemes. The Horana Base Hospital and private healthcare providers, such as Medihelp Hospital Horana, ensure quality medical services for residents. Good road networks and increasing public transportation options make it easier to access Colombo and other urban centres.
Education and Industrial Growth
One of Horana’s most notable achievements is its contribution to education. The NSBM Green University Town, Sri Lanka’s first-ever university township, is located in Pitipana, Horana. This institution attracts thousands of students nationwide and has spurred significant growth in local commerce and housing. Industrial zones in Horana, such as the BOI Export Processing Zone, also support employment and regional economic activity.
Natural Beauty and Relaxation
Despite its rapid development, Horana preserves its natural allure. Surrounded by paddy fields, rubber plantations, and scenic hillocks, the town is perfect for a countryside getaway. Small lakes and rivers enhance the aesthetic beauty, offering spots for picnics and quiet reflection. Its cooler, greener environment makes Horana an ideal retreat from the heat of coastal towns.
Community Development and Services
Horana’s local governance is administered by the Horana Divisional Secretariat, which plays an active role in improving infrastructure, promoting environmental awareness, and delivering public services efficiently. The community benefits from a well-managed education system, public libraries, cooperative banks, and government welfare programs.
How to Reach Horana: Inland Accessibility
🚖 By Taxi/Ride-Hailing
Taxi services such as PickMe and Uber operate from Colombo to Horana via the Piliyandala–Kesbewa route. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
🚌 By Bus
Buses regularly travel from Colombo to Horana (e.g., routes 125, 285), as well as to Kalutaa and Ratnapura. The central bus station in Horana is a key transit point.
🚙 By Private Vehicle
Horana is accessible via the B84 (Colombo–Horana) road and the Southern Expressway exit at Gelanigama. It is a preferred choice for those commuting to Colombo on a daily basis.
Horana stands out as a town that harmoniously combines educational excellence, spiritual values, green surroundings, and modern growth. Whether you’re a student, a family, a businessperson, or a traveller, Horana offers a lifestyle of balance, connection, and community.
| GN Code | Name |
|---|---|
| 005 | Kotigamgoda |
| 010 | Pahala Millewa North |
| 015 | Pahala Millewa South |
| 020 | Ihala Millewa North |
| 025 | Ihala Millewa South |
| 030 | Thalagala East |
| 035 | Thalagala North |
| 040 | Thalagala West |
| 045 | Olaboduwa North |
| 050 | Koralaima |
| 055 | Godigamuwa East |
| 060 | Halapitiya |
| 065 | Wellmilla |
| 070 | Godigamuwa West |
| 075 | Palannoruwa |
| 080 | Olaboduwa South |
| 085 | Olaboduwa East |
| 090 | Thalagala South |
| 095 | Pannila |
| 100 | Kahatapitiya |
| 105 | Uduwa North |
| 110 | Kidelpitiya |
| 115 | Gorokgoda |
| 120 | Dambara |
| 125 | Handupelpola |
| 130 | Kuda Uduwa |
| 135 | Maha Uduwa |
| 140 | Kananvila North |
| 145 | Batuvita North |
| 150 | Kumbuka East |
| 155 | Kumbuka South |
| 160 | Kumbuka North |
| 165 | Kumbuka West |
| 170 | Pokunuwita |
| 175 | Batuvita South |
| 180 | Meemana |
| 185 | Kananvila South |
| 190 | Uduwa South |
| 195 | Kirigalahena |
| 200 | Meewanapalana West |
| 205 | Meewanapalana East |
| 210 | Gurugoda |
| 215 | Munagama East |
| 220 | Midellamulahena |
| 225 | Ovitiyagala |
| 230 | Aramanagolla |
| 235 | Werellahena |
| 240 | Kulupana |
| 245 | Kanewala |
| 250 | Henegama |
| 255 | Galedandugoda |
| 260 | Horana North |
| 265 | Munagama West |
| 270 | Dikhenagama |
| 275 | Narthanagala |
| 280 | Horana South |
| 285 | Wewala West |
| 290 | Halthotiyawatta |
| 295 | Mahena |
| 300 | Wewala East |
| 305 | Horana East |
| Service | Contact Number | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|
| 🚓 Horana Police Station | +94 34 226 1222 | Main police station serving Horana & the surrounding areas |
| 🦺 Horana Fire & Rescue Unit | — | Operated under the Kalutara Municipal Council – covers the Horana region |
| 🏥 Horana Base (District General) Hospital | +94 34 226 3404, +94 34 226 0266 | Government Base Hospital Type A, located in Horana town |
| 🏥 Medihelp Hospital Horana | +94 34 226 1999 / 034 226 1115 | Private hospital adjacent to Base Hospital in Horana |
| 🏛️ Horana Divisional Secretariat | +94 34 226 1239 | Central government administrative office for the Horana DS Division |
Best Time to Visit Horana
The best time to visit Horana is between December and March, when the region experiences its dry season. During this period, the weather remains warm and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor exploration, religious visits, and attending cultural festivals. Daytime temperatures typically range from 28°C to 32°C, offering comfortable conditions for travel and sightseeing.
From May to September, the town sees increased rainfall due to the southwest monsoon. While the lush surroundings thrive during this time, travel plans may need flexibility due to intermittent showers. However, this is also when crowds are fewer, offering a more peaceful experience.
November and April are considered shoulder months, with mild weather and fewer tourists. Whether you're visiting Horana for its cultural sites, temples, or local markets, the dry season ensures the best overall experience.
How to Reach – Horana
Horana is a rapidly developing town in the Kalutara District of Sri Lanka’s Western Province. Positioned along the B84 road and well connected to Colombo, Ratnapura, and Matugama, Horana is easily accessible via both public and private transport. Below is a handy guide with distances and estimated travel times from key cities.
| City | Distance | Estimated Travel Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colombo Fort | 45 km | 1 – 1.5 hrs | |
| Panadura | 24 km | 35 – 45 mins | |
| Ratnapura | 62 km | 1.5 – 2 hrs | |
| Matugama | 35 km | 50 mins – 1 hr | |
| Kalutara | 33 km | 45 – 55 mins |
Interactive Map
Geographical Overview – Horana
Horana is a bustling town located in the Kalutara District of Sri Lanka’s Western Province. Positioned around 45 kilometers southeast of Colombo, Horana sits strategically on the B84 road that connects Colombo with Ratnapura. The town is surrounded by lush greenery, rubber plantations, and small water bodies, reflecting its rich agricultural landscape. Horana is also a growing hub for education and industry, thanks to institutions like the NSBM Green University and several emerging business zones. Its accessibility via multiple bus routes and close proximity to towns like Panadura and Bandaragama make it an important link between the coastal and inland regions of the country.
Administrative Information
- Province: Western Province
- District: Kalutara District
- Divisional Secretariat: Horana Divisional Secretariat
- Neighbouring Areas: Bandaragama, Ingiriya, Panadura, Homagama
Local Economy and Services – Horana
Horana's economy is largely driven by agriculture, rubber cultivation, and small-scale industries. The town is renowned for its rubber estates, which contribute significantly to Sri Lanka's export economy. In recent years, Horana has seen a rise in educational and commercial activity, particularly due to the establishment of institutions like the NSBM Green University and the development of new business zones. Local markets, trade centers, and small manufacturing units also play an important role in supporting the town’s economic stability.
Horana provides essential services for residents and visitors alike. The town hosts government offices, public service departments, and health care facilities such as Base Hospital Horana and several private clinics. Public and private schools serve the educational needs of the local population, while reliable banking, telecommunication, and utility services are widely accessible across the town.
Positioned along the Colombo–Ratnapura main road, Horana is well connected by an efficient bus network and emerging transport links, making it a convenient transit town. As infrastructure continues to improve, Horana is becoming an increasingly attractive area for investment, regional business expansion, and sustainable development in the Kalutara District.
Community and Culture – Horana
Horana is a town enriched by its cultural diversity and strong community values. Home to a predominantly Sinhalese population with a presence of Tamil and Muslim communities, Horana showcases a harmonious coexistence that defines its social fabric. The blend of traditions and beliefs contributes to a warm and welcoming atmosphere where respect, cooperation, and shared heritage thrive.
Religious and cultural festivals such as Vesak, Sinhala and Tamil New Year, Deepavali, Ramadan, and Christmas are widely observed with vibrant participation from all communities. These events are celebrated with temple offerings, mosque prayers, colourful decorations, and community feasts that promote unity and cultural understanding. Key spiritual landmarks such as temples, churches, and mosques serve as centers of both worship and social gathering.
Horana’s community spirit is further supported by local associations, youth groups, and cultural clubs that organize events, drama festivals, and sports meets. Educational programs and community halls encourage civic participation, while traditional music, dance, and arts continue to be cherished and passed down through generations. With a strong sense of belonging and active cultural engagement, Horana proudly upholds its legacy of social harmony and cultural richness.
Festivals & Culture – Horana
Horana is a culturally vibrant town in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, where traditions and religious harmony flourish among Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities. The town celebrates major Sri Lankan festivals with enthusiasm and unity, including Vesak, Poson, Deepavali, Ramadan, and Christmas. These festivals bring families and neighbors together in a shared spirit of joy, with lanterns, rituals, parades, and traditional foods creating a colorful and peaceful atmosphere.
Vesak and Poson are deeply rooted in Horana’s Buddhist identity, celebrated with illuminated lanterns, devotional music, and dansal (free food offerings). Deepavali is joyously marked by Hindu families with oil lamps, sweet treats, and religious rituals. The Muslim community comes together for Ramadan and Eid, observing fasting and community giving, while Christmas brings cheer to Christian homes through carols, mass, and shared meals.
Horana also hosts cultural events such as traditional dance performances, school concerts, and New Year pageants that reflect its rich heritage. These festivals and cultural expressions strengthen the bonds among residents, showcasing Horana as a harmonious town that proudly celebrates Sri Lanka’s diversity.
Transportation and Connectivity – Horana
Horana is well-connected to the rest of the Western Province and key urban centers, making it a convenient location for both residents and visitors. Located along the Colombo–Horana–Ratnapura Road (B84), the town links easily to Colombo, Panadura, Ratnapura, and the central highlands. Horana is also accessible via Southern Expressway (E01) through the Gelanigama interchange, ensuring faster travel to Colombo and southern destinations.
The town features a reliable public transport network, with frequent SLTB and private buses connecting Horana to Colombo Fort, Ratnapura, Matugama, and Kalutara. Three-wheelers are widely used for short trips within the town and surrounding villages. In recent years, ride-hailing services like PickMe have expanded their coverage to Horana, offering further convenience for commuters.
While Horana does not have a railway station, nearby towns such as Panadura and Aluthgama provide access to the Coastal Railway Line. The town’s strategic road connections and growing transport services make Horana a transit-friendly hub for business, education, and tourism in the Kalutara District.
Environmental Significance and Sustainability – Horana
Horana is an inland town surrounded by lush greenery, lowland paddy fields, and freshwater ecosystems. The town’s location near the Bolgoda River Basin makes it environmentally significant, contributing to local agriculture, biodiversity, and natural water management. The surrounding landscapes are rich in native flora and fauna, offering a blend of rural beauty and ecological value.
Environmental awareness is growing in Horana, with schools and civic groups organizing initiatives such as tree planting campaigns, environmental education programs, and waste segregation drives. Efforts to preserve green zones and improve waste management are helping to create a cleaner and more sustainable living environment.
Horana’s push towards sustainability also includes promoting organic farming, encouraging renewable energy adoption, and supporting eco-friendly industries. With a balance of development and conservation, Horana is steadily progressing as a model town where community action supports environmental resilience and green living.
Tourism and Attractions – Horana
Horana may be less known on the mainstream tourist trail, but it offers a peaceful escape with a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. The town is home to the Samadhi Buddha Statue at the Horana Raja Maha Viharaya, a tranquil site that reflects the spiritual heritage of the area. Small temples and shrines are scattered throughout the region, providing insight into traditional Sri Lankan Buddhist life.
For nature lovers, Horana’s lush green environment and scenic surroundings offer an inviting backdrop for leisurely exploration. The nearby Bolgoda Lake is a beautiful spot for birdwatching, picnics, and nature photography. The town also serves as a convenient base to explore surrounding areas such as Ingiriya and Madakada Rainforest, known for their rich biodiversity and forest trails.
Horana’s charm lies in its calm and authentic local atmosphere. It is ideal for travelers seeking a quiet getaway, spiritual rejuvenation, or an introduction to rural Sri Lankan life. Its accessibility from Colombo makes it a convenient day-trip destination with cultural depth and natural beauty.
Education and Institutions – Horana
Horana stands as a growing educational hub in the Western Province, offering a range of schools and institutes that serve the town and surrounding rural areas. Leading schools such as Royal College Horana, Taxila Central College, and Vidyarathna Pirivena are known for their commitment to academic excellence, discipline, and extracurricular achievements.
The town also hosts branches of key vocational training centers such as NAITA and the Vocational Training Authority (VTA), which offer practical courses in areas like ICT, mechanical skills, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. These institutions play a vital role in youth empowerment and rural employment development across the Kalutara District.
With a focus on inclusive education, Horana continues to enhance its infrastructure and teaching quality. Access to libraries, tuition services, and digital learning platforms supports students in achieving academic goals while contributing to the intellectual growth of the region.
Healthcare and Medical Services – Horana
Horana provides a dependable mix of public and private healthcare facilities that cater to the needs of its residents and neighboring areas. The primary government institution, Base Hospital Horana, delivers essential medical services including outpatient care, emergency treatment, maternity care, and a range of specialized clinics.
In addition, private hospitals and medical centers such as Sethma Hospital offer diagnostic services, general and specialist consultations, and minor surgeries. Several private clinics, pharmacies, and laboratories further enhance Horana’s healthcare landscape, ensuring accessible medical care for the growing population.
Public health is actively promoted through vaccination drives, school health programs, and wellness campaigns led by local authorities. Community awareness on hygiene, nutrition, and disease prevention plays an important role in maintaining overall health standards in Horana.
Why Visit Horana – Where Nature Meets Progress
Horana, located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Western Province, is a charming inland town known for its lush greenery, serene landscapes, and emerging infrastructure. Surrounded by rubber estates, paddy fields, and small lakes, Horana offers a tranquil rural vibe while maintaining strong connectivity to Colombo via the High-Level Road. Its balance of natural beauty and growing urban development makes it an ideal destination for a peaceful yet engaging getaway.
Visitors can explore local markets, spiritual sites like the Henegama Raja Maha Viharaya, and enjoy scenic drives through verdant countryside. With friendly communities, clean townscapes, and a rising focus on education and public amenities, Horana is gaining popularity among travelers seeking a more grounded and culturally rich experience within close reach of Colombo.