Deep South

  

The Deep South in Sri Lanka mainly belongs to the Hambantota district (an area of 2,593 km²) of which the coastal expanse stretches 151 km from the Tangalle Beach to the Kumana Bird Sanctuary. The Deep South of Sri Lanka is replete with fine tropical beaches, cultural attractions and wildlife reserves. Kataragama, the adobe of God Skanda, the ancient city of Tissamaharama, Sithulpawwa rock monastery, Mulkirigala rock temple and Kirinda Temple are the most visited cultural sites. The Dikwella Beach, Tangalle Beach and Rekawa Beach are the most popular beaches while the wildlife reserves include the Kalamatiya Bird Sanctuary, Bundala National Park, Kumana National Park and Yala National Park.

The prominent towns of Hambantota district include Tangalle, Beliatta, Ambalantota, Tissamaharama and Kataragama.

Hambantota City

Hambantota city located at a distance of 238km from Colombo can be reached via the Colombo – Galle – Matara – Tissamaharama main road.

Hambantota Development Zone, Deep South Sri Lanka

The mega development project at Hambantota is targeted to convert the district into an air-sea trans-shipment hub. Some of the infrastructure includes the Mattala International Airport, Hambantota Harbour, Suriyawewa International Cricket Stadium, an Administrative Complex, Star Hotels, oil refinery and other similar commercial initiatives.

Investment Zone, Hambantota, Deep South Sri Lanka

An Investment Zone of 2000 hectares surrounding the Magampura Mahinda Rajapaksa free port is scheduled to be developed. Magampura is made a free port to attract the investors to the Investment Zone.

The construction of the Matara – Kataragama Railway Line running a distance of 114.5 km began on 5th April 2010 with Chinese aid at an estimated cost of USD366 m and is scheduled to be completed by 2015. Following the launch of Hambantota Development Zone, it is now proposed to extend the Matara-Kataragama railway line to Hambantota.

Deep South Highlights

Hambantota Salt Pans

Hambantota is the center of salt production in Sri Lanka. The city is dominated by shimmering expansive saltpans that stretch along bordering the main road for about 15km. Salt is produced by means of allowing the sea water into the pans called Lewayas that makes the