Administrative Divisions of Sri Lanka

Prior to the 1987 reforms, administrative tasks were overseen by a district-based civil service, a structure inherited from colonial rule. The introduction of provincial councils marked a significant turning point in Sri Lanka’s governance, empowering local decision-making and autonomy.
At the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, we value the role of decentralized governance in fostering community resilience and empowerment. Collaborating with provincial councils and local communities, we strive to build a resilient and adaptive society capable of tackling present and future challenges effectively.

Administrative Divisions of Sri Lanka

Province

Capital

Area (km²)

Area
(sq mi)

Population

Central Kandy

5,674

2,191

2,423,966

Eastern Trincomalee

9,996

3,859

1,460,939

North Central Anuradhapura

10,714

4,137

1,104,664

Northern Jaffna

8,884

3,430

1,311,776

North Western Kurunegala

7,812

3,016

2,169,892

Sabaragamuwa Ratnapura

4,902

1,893

1,801,331

Southern Galle

5,559

2,146

2,278,271

Uva Badulla

8,488

3,277

1,177,358

Western Colombo

3,709

1,432

5,361,200