Uva Province (ඌව පළාත / ஊவா மாகாணம்)
Uva is Sri Lanka’s second least populated province, with over 1,187,335 citizens, created in 1896. It consists of two administrative districts: Badulla and Monaragala. The provincial capital and economic center is Badulla. Uva is bordered by Eastern, Southern, and Central provinces, renowned for its dramatic topography, world-class tea country, and legendary historical heritage.
History of Uva Province
Uva Province has a rich legacy of historical incidents dating back to the legendary Ravana Era. Ancient sites identify that King Ravana governed the country based from Badulla, with Ravana Waterfalls, Stripura Curve Tunnel Complex, Ravana Cave, Hakgala Mountain, and Diurumwela Temple deeply intertwined with these stories.
The historic Mahiyangana Raja Maha Vihara stands as the sanctified place of the first visit of Lord Buddha to Sri Lanka. The province is also renowned for the 1818 freedom uprising (the Third Kandyan War) against British colonial rule, led by the national hero Monarawila Keppetipola Disawe.
Mountains & Geography
Uva’s symbolic mountain is Namunukula, standing tallest among the mountain range surrounding Badulla town. On a clear day, one can witness spectacular panoramic views of Welimada basin, Katharagama, and Hambantota beach from its summit.
Haputale mountain range features its highest peak, Kirigalpottha, while Haputale-Beragala gap offers breathtaking vistas of Southern and Sabaragamuwa provinces. The region is nurtured by Mahaweli and Menik rivers, and home to iconic attractions like Dunhinda Falls and the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge.
Iconic Landmarks of Uva Province
