Hambantota
The natural harbour at Godawaya, Ambalantota was a popular anchorage for traders from Siam, China, and Indonesia during the time of the Kingdom of Ruhuna. The port where these traders docked their "Sampans" or large boats became known as "Sampantota" and later as "Hambantota." The Hambantota District, part of the traditional south known as Ruhuna, has a rich history dating back to ancient times when it was the centre of a flourishing civilization. The region was blessed with fertile fields and an impressive irrigation network, and it played a vital role in building the Sri Lankan nation and nurturing Buddhist culture. The area is home to many historical sites, including the large Tissamaharama temple, built close to Hambantota to house a sacred tooth relic.
