What Is Sri Lanka’s Official Capital?
Sri Lanka has two capitals with distinct roles: Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is the official legislative capital, where the Parliament of Sri Lanka is located. Colombo remains the de facto center for executive, judicial, commercial, and diplomatic activities.
Official Capital (Administrative)
In 1977, the government decided to move the capital from Colombo to Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. The new Parliament building was inaugurated in 1982, marking its official designation as the capital, to relieve congestion in Colombo. The "new" capital is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, is the house of the Parliament of Sri Lanka and other government institutions.
Commercial Capital
Colombo is the executive and judicial capital, as well as the largest city and the main hub for business, tourism, and international diplomacy. While many government functions have moved to Kotte, Colombo hosts most embassies, corporations, and cultural institutions.
Why does Sri Lanka have Two Capitals?
This dual-capital system was introduced to decentralize administration and reduce congestion in Colombo. While Kotte officially became the capital in 1982 (with parliamentary sessions beginning in the new building that year), Colombo continues to function as the practical capital in many respects, especially in business and diplomacy.
Technically, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is the official capital. But Colombo is often referred to as the "real" capital due to its economic dominance, international recognition, and urban prominence.
Facts about the Historic Capitals of Sri Lanka
Below is a list of the old capitals of Sri Lanka:
| Historical Period | Capital City |
Notes |
|
Ancient (4th century BC–11th century AD) |
Anuradhapura |
First major capital; center of Buddhism and monarchy |
|
Medieval (11th–13th century) |
Polonnaruwa |
Followed Anuradhapura, known for its advanced irrigation and architecture |
|
Late Medieval (14th–16th century) |
Kotte |
Capital of the Kingdom of Kotte; now part of the modern capital |
| Colonial (1815–1948) | Colombo | Capital under British rule; retained after independence until 1982 |
So, while Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is the official administrative and legislative capital, Colombo still holds significant importance as the commercial and judicial capital, and is often the city most tourists and international visitors associate with "the capital" due to its size and economic activity.
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