Provinces of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is divided into nine provinces, each with its own unique characteristics, and special gems of places to get married.
| Central | Eastern | North Central |
| Northern | North Western | Sabaragamuwa |
| Southern | Uva | Western |
Famous for its ‘Ceylon tea’, the central province is a very important international religious centre. Once the seat of the Sinhala dynasty, the chief city of Kandy is surrounded by magnificent mountains and situated on the banks of Sri Lanka’s longest river, the Mahaweli Ganga. Here lies the Sri Dalada Maligawa or The Temple of the Tooth Relic, that encases an original tooth of the Gautama Buddha. This temple filled ancient city plays host to the famous Esala Perahera, a religious procession during the month of July that lasts for ten days. The central province is also home to The Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya. The massive 147 acre patch boasts flora from every part of the world and cannot be missed. An ideal sight-seeing option for post wedding days.
The eastern province of Sri Lanka has been a war torn province to communal violence. However its slow recovery from the damage of the civil war has resulted in a laid back lazy charm. The harbour in the largest town of Trincomalee is famous for its deep water anchorages which are the largest in the world. Tourists flock to the Arugam Bay for its superb surf and the Colonial Batticaloa offers you historical insights into the colonial period.
How about solemnizing wedding vows in royal surroundings? The city of Anuradhapura was once the power capital of Sri Lanka for more than 1500 years, and has a regal air about it. Here stands the sacred Sri Maha Bodhiya tree. Legend has it that a branch of the Bodhi Tree, under which the great Buddha was enlightened, was brought to the shores of Lanka in 245 BC. The Sri Maha Bodhiya is revered by Buddhists all over the world. The primeval city of Polonnaruwa is perhaps one of the best designed archaeological sites till date that is indeed worth a visit.
Northern Sri Lanka is still on the road to recovery from the civil war. Because of the after conflict activity by the security forces, travel to this province is highly cautioned and not advised to do so. The capital of this province is Jaffna, which has been a subject of contention in the international scene.
The North Western province of Sri Lanka is a rich archaeological site brimming with citadels and palatial remains that were built by great kings of the past. The natives of this province celebrate many religious festivals with pomp and glory that highlights the spirit of Sri Lanka and its hearty people. The hustle and bustle of the coastal fishing villages will definitely leave impressions in your mind’s eye. Moreover, the beaches here provide you an excellent range of aqua sport and splendid coral views that will leave you wanting for more.
Sri Lanka’s gems have never escaped the eye of prominent personalities like King Solomon and Marco Polo. Ratnapura, the gem mining epicentre of the country is freckled with gem workshops and museums that display some brilliant collections of precious stones like sapphires, rubies, topaz etc. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness gem mining, gem cutting and gem polishing operations. So why not get married in this sparkling land of gems? The Udawalawe National Park is also an important attraction for wildlife lovers.
Southern Sri Lanka is also replete with wildlife sanctuaries, ancient wonder, pristine beaches, sacred shrines and scenic splendour. The traditional arts and craft is a distinct diversion from the rest, giving your wedding day an ‘arty’ touch. Watch the mask carvers of Ambalangoda create unique masks out of soft wood and then paint them in bright colours. Mat weaving is another tradition followed by the rural people, and a must watch that will cease to amaze you. Else head to watch the mystical Kolam dance performances from dusk into the wee hours of dawn.
Create romantic memories in the evergreen tea estates of this hilly paradise. Popular tea manufacturers such as Lipton Tea cultivate their tea plantations in Haputale, a small city in Uva. The Dambatenne Tea factory is a tea processing unit built by Sir Thomas Lipton, that still retains century old manufacturing equipment. So don’t pass the opportunity to observe traditional tea making methods and to sample different varieties of tea. Uva is also known for the legendary Duhinda waterfall. So pick up your camera and blow your mind watching mother nature’s creative brilliance.
Colombo in the western province is Sri Lanka’s commercial capital. Colombo’s culture, lifestyle and cuisine has Portuguese, Dutch and British influences. Walk along the cobblestoned paths of Pettah bazaar for great bargains. Get married in the luxury hotels of this power capital. Enjoy a picnic at the Galle Face or watch the popular Elephant Show at the Dehiwala Zoo. Learn about the history of Sri Lanka’s heritage at the National Museum or spend a quiet moment at the Dutch Wolvendaal Church.
Find out more about getting married in Sri Lanka in our Sri Lankan Wedding Guide or visit our Sri Lankan Wedding Directory to start planning your dream wedding.
