Kurunegala is a city in the North Western Province of Sri Lanka. It is the administrative capital of the Kurunegala District and is located approximately 115 kilometers (71 miles) away from the capital city of Colombo. The city is renowned for its rich history and culture, and has long been a major center of Buddhist learning and education.
Kurunegala has a long and fascinating history that can be traced back to the 5th century BC, when the city was a part of the ancient kingdom of Anuradhapura. It is believed that the city was established by King Dutugamunu, who ruled the kingdom from 161 BC to 137 BC. During this period, Kurunegala was an important trading center and was known as a major center of Buddhist learning.
In 1215, the city was conquered by the Chola Empire and remained under their rule until the 13th century. During this period, the city was renamed Kurunegala, which means “City of the Tiger” in Sinhala. The Chola Empire was eventually overthrown by the Sinhalese king Parakramabahu I in 1293, and Kurunegala was once again under Sinhalese rule.
The city was then ruled by a succession of Sinhalese kings until the 16th century, when it was conquered by the Portuguese. The Portuguese were eventually driven out of the city by the Dutch in 1639, and Kurunegala was once again under Sinhalese rule.
In 1796, the city was captured by the British and became part of the British Empire. During the British rule, Kurunegala was an important administrative center and played a major role in the development of the country. It was also during this period that the city began to develop its own distinct identity and culture.
Today, Kurunegala is an important commercial and cultural center in Sri Lanka. It is home to many ancient and historical monuments, including the ancient Buddhist temple of Kandy, the Kurunegala Fortress, and the Kurunegala Lake. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife and its many festivals, such as the annual Kandy Festival.
Kurunegala is a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich and fascinating history. Its long and varied history has shaped the city into the unique and vibrant destination that it is today.