What is the Capital of Sri Lanka? Colombo; Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte

Capital City of Sri Lanka: Colombo & Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte

Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, has two capitals: Colombo and Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. Colombo serves as the commercial capital, while Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, a suburb of Colombo, functions as the legislative capital. Below is an overview of both capitals, including key facts, landmarks, climate, and historical context.

City Overview: Colombo

Colombo is the largest city and the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. It is a major port city and the country’s economic hub. Historically, Colombo was the colonial capital during both the Portuguese and British occupations, and it continues to be the beating heart of modern Sri Lanka. The city is located on the western coast of the island, facing the Indian Ocean.

Colombo’s rich history, blending colonial architecture with Sri Lankan traditions, is evident throughout the city. It has a diverse population, with a mix of Sinhalese, Tamils, Moors, Burghers, and other ethnic groups. This multicultural mix is reflected in its culture, cuisine, festivals, and daily life.

City Facts:

• Area: 37.31 km² (14.4 square miles)
• Population: Approximately 5.6 million (Greater Colombo area, 2021 estimate)
• Time Zone: Sri Lanka Standard Time (SLST), UTC +5:30
• Highest Mountain: Pidurutalagala, located in central Sri Lanka, at an elevation of 2,524 meters (8,281 feet).
• Longest River: Mahaweli River, which flows through the central and eastern parts of the island, spanning 335 km.

City Overview: Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte

Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is the legislative capital of Sri Lanka, located about 15 km from Colombo. The city was established as the capital in 1982, replacing Colombo as the seat of the national parliament. Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is an area of immense political significance, housing important government buildings and institutions.

Despite being a suburb, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte has grown into a thriving city, complete with residential neighborhoods, government offices, and large green spaces. The city has a more tranquil atmosphere compared to the bustling city of Colombo, making it a popular residential area for government officials.

City Facts:

• Area: 16.5 km² (6.4 square miles)
• Population: Approximately 115,000 (2021 estimate)
• Time Zone: Sri Lanka Standard Time (SLST), UTC +5:30
• Highest Mountain: Pidurutalagala, as in Colombo
• Longest River: Mahaweli River

Major Landmarks in Colombo

1. Galle Face Green
   One of Colombo’s most iconic landmarks, Galle Face Green is a large oceanfront park where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the sea breeze, fly kites, or watch the sunset. It was originally created by the Dutch in the 17th century and has become a popular location for leisure and outdoor events.
2. Colombo National Museum
   The National Museum of Colombo is the largest museum in Sri Lanka and provides a deep dive into the country’s history, culture, and art. With its vast collection of artifacts, sculptures, and artwork, the museum offers a comprehensive view of Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms and colonial past.
3. Gangaramaya Temple
   The Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Colombo. It features a unique blend of modern architecture and traditional Sri Lankan design. The temple complex includes a museum, library, and a Buddha statue, making it an important religious and cultural site.
4. Beira Lake
   Situated in the heart of Colombo, Beira Lake offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. You can take boat rides on the lake or simply enjoy a relaxing walk along the shore. The lake also houses the Seema Malaka Temple, designed by Sri Lanka’s famous architect Geoffrey Bawa.
5. Colombo Port
   As the country’s main seaport, the Colombo Port is an essential economic center for Sri Lanka. It is one of the busiest ports in South Asia and plays a vital role in the country’s trade and commerce.

Major Landmarks in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte

1. Parliament of Sri Lanka
   The Sri Lankan Parliament building is located in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. Set amidst a scenic lake, this modern structure is an architectural wonder and an important symbol of Sri Lankan democracy. The parliament is housed on an artificial island in the Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte lake.
2. Buddhasasana Ministry
   The Buddhasasana Ministry, dedicated to the promotion of Buddhism, is also located in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. The ministry plays a vital role in the administration of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist institutions and policies.
3. Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte Lake
   A serene water body located in the heart of the city, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte Lake provides a calm environment and enhances the city’s natural beauty. It is an ideal spot for morning walks and nature lovers.

Climate Overview

Both Colombo and Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte experience a tropical climate, with a distinct wet and dry season. Due to their proximity to the ocean, the city temperatures are generally moderate throughout the year, though the humidity levels can be high.

Monthly Climate Data for Colombo

Month	Average Temperature (°C)	Precipitation (mm)	Sunny Days
January	28°C	100 mm	25
February	29°C	90 mm	25
March	30°C	130 mm	22
April	31°C	140 mm	20
May	30°C	180 mm	18
June	29°C	150 mm	20
July	29°C	110 mm	21
August	29°C	110 mm	22
September	29°C	150 mm	20
October	29°C	250 mm	18
November	29°C	230 mm	18
December	28°C	160 mm	20

Other Cities as Capital in Sri Lanka’s History

1. Anuradhapura (Up to 993 CE)

Anuradhapura was the first capital of Sri Lanka and served as the capital for over 1,300 years from around the 4th century BCE to 993 CE. It is famous for its extensive ruins, including the Sri Maha Bodhi, one of the oldest living trees in the world, believed to be a sapling of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.

2. Polonnaruwa (993 CE – 1070 CE)

After the fall of Anuradhapura to South Indian invaders, the capital moved to Polonnaruwa, which became the capital under King Parakramabahu I. It remained the seat of power until the 12th century. The city is known for its ancient temples, palaces, and reservoirs.

3. Kandy (1592 CE – 1815 CE)

Kandy, located in the central hills of Sri Lanka, was the last independent kingdom of Sri Lanka before the British colonization. The city became the capital in 1592 and remained the seat of the Sinhalese monarchy until it was ceded to the British in 1815.

Country Facts

• Population: Approximately 22 million (2023 estimate)
• Area: 65,610 km² (25,332 square miles)
• Largest City: Colombo
• Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
• Official Language: Sinhala, Tamil (Both official languages)
• ISO Country Codes: LK (Alpha-2), LKA (Alpha-3)
• Government: Presidential Republic
• Independence: February 4, 1948, from the United Kingdom

Sri Lanka has a diverse cultural heritage, with influences from Buddhism, Hinduism, and colonial powers. The country’s economy relies on agriculture, tourism, and exports like tea, rubber, and coconut. The nation’s history is filled with ancient kingdoms, colonial rule, and a complex ethnic makeup, contributing to a unique and fascinating culture that has shaped modern Sri Lanka.