Pelmadulla

Formation
of the
Pelmadulla
History of the Human
Settelment
Department of Town &
Country Planning,
University Of Moratuwa
Registration No: 102353B

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Map 1
Background Information of Pelmadulla
The city which I selected is rich from valuable rare gems & has very ancient history that is
Pelmadulla. If you travel in Colombo –Embilipitiya or Colombo-Badulla road you can see this
town area. It is situated in Rathnapura District in Sabaragamuwa Province
Pelmadulla is Divisional Secretarial Division & it consists of 37 GN divisions These 37 GN
divisions consist one hundred & eleven villages. In this assignment I selected only 6 GN
divisions. Pelmadulla town, Pelmadulla gama, Ganegama, Pahala Bopitiya, Rilhena &
Udathula are that selected GN divisions. Pelmadulla is situated in Denawaka dhow which
boader to Kuttapitiya- Hunuwala Mountain range in North & Kiribathgala Mountain range in
South.
Location Map of Pelmadulla

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Google Image of Pelmadulla Town Area

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Story of the Formation of Pelmadulla
Denawaka
In very first time this area called as Denawaka. Because of the Denawaka river goes through
this area. Also, Denawaka is located between hilltop of Kiribathgala & hilltop of Kuttapitiya.
So, this area called as “Dona Wakka” after it became “Denawaka”
In polonnaruwa era this was the famous name for Pelmadulla. Not only in polonnaruwa era
but also “Vihara Asina” in era of Kandy this area was called as Denawaka. Now also some
people this area as Denawaka. (Reference: Book of Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume ii, Page 458)
According to Historical Content
Location of Denawaka was very important to use as for defensive fortress in the past time.
According to the historical content army of King Parakramabhahu i went through this area
for subjugation to Ruhuna. At that time they made defensive fortress at Denawaka. This is
the one historical content for Denawaka.
Asawedu who was the major of Portuguese been to aggression for upcountry of Sri Lanka.
According to the historical content he also made defensive camp at Denawaka area.
(Reference: Book of Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume ii, Page 458)
Denawaka, Then it became a Pelmadulla
According to the Sinhala Language
The name “Pelmadulla” was made of by joining two words. “Pel” & “Madulla”. In Sinhala
“Pel” means temporary build little houses & “Madulla” means a group. So Pelmadulla
means a group of temporary builds little houses.
According to Historical Legend
After the King Parakramabahu I became as the king he wanted to capture the Ruhuna area
also. But at that moment the symbol of kingship, tooth relic had belonged to the queen
Sugala who was mother of King Manbharana. So the king wanted to get the tooth relic from
queen Sugala. When queen Sugala act in knowledge about that thing she protest to protect
the symbol of kingship from Parakramabahu. The way which queen & her army went
belonged to Rathnapura District. Meanwhile that journey the army and queen had rested by
marking some small huts in an area of Rathnapura District. The place which those huts was
situated called as “Pelmadulla”. (Reference: Book of Sabaragamu Wanshakathwa volume i, page 266-
268, Book of Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume ii, page 627)

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Picture 1
According to the folk Tale
Once upon a time some merchants who have went to sell
their goods in carts has rested in this area by marking huts
because of the difficult journey. As the result of that, place
called as Pelmadulla. (Reference from people’s interview)
In My Opinion
According to the Mahawanshawa Queen Sugala who mother of king Manabharana had stay
there by marking group of huts as the historical legend
According to the folk tale group of merchants had in this area by marking number of huts.
These both stories talk about same group of huts & when consider about Sinhala meaning of
the name of Pelmadulla it is give correct idea related to it.

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Brief Historic Information about Rathnapura
District (Sabaragamuwa)
Era of Rama Ravana According to Ramayanaya (1800- 1900 A. D)
When Indu Valley cultivation has in a very developed stage, The Aryan captured the Indu
Valley cultivation (1500 A. D). At that moment the tribes Yaksha & Naga would migrate to
the Sri Lanka and they would also migrate to Sabaragamuwa Province also.
The leader of the Naga tribe Rawana has been get care of Yaksha tribe also & lived in
Lankapura take it as the capital in Giri Kingdom.
Mahendra Giri Kingdom -Ruhuna
Chandra Giri Kingdom -Sabaragamuwa
Siwa Giri Kingdom - Sigiriya
Hela Giri Kingdom -Dewndara
Malaya Giri Kingdom -Kandy Hntana
Mula Giri Kingdom -Thangalle
Indra Giri Kingdom -Kuragala
(walawe valley)
The seven fortress & caves of Rawana has captured by Vibhishana (Mahasumana) the
brother of Rama after the death of Ravana. Rama Rawana war occurred also in
Sabaragamuwa. (Reference: Book of Heritage of Rathnapura ( “Ithihasika Rathnapura”) , Page 7-8)
Migration of Lord Buddha
In the Migration of Lord Buddha, the Sabaragamuwa Province in Rathnapura area also has
specialty. Lord Buddha’s third visit was to Kalaniya. God Sumana has invited to visit
Rathnapura & requested Lord Buddha to leave a lasting impression in Lofty rocks of Adams
peak to be incessantly worshiped by the people. Therefore Lord Buddha put his left sacred
foot in Adams Peak.

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Historic Information about Pelmadulla
according to Eras
Anuradhapura Era
Kings in Anuradhapura Kingdom used this area to
get hide from enemies when come foreign
captured Anuradhapura area not only that when
there are some coralls among Anuradhapura &
Ruhuna Kings that area also used Sabaragamuwa
as a controlling unit. Long ago from “Ruhunu”,
“Pihiti”, & “Maya” provinces, to Maya province
contain a large area of Sabaragamuwa area. At
that time the Maya province has belonged to the
controlled units called “Rata” & it contain twenty-
nine provinces. At that time Pelmadulla called as
“Navadun Rata” (Nava dun Coralls) in fourth
century.
These areas that included low country wet zone,
Eheliyagoda, Rathnapura, Pelmadulla areas also
there wouldn’t be any ancient cultivations. Those
areas popular for gems & the belongings have
gone to the King completely. Finding gems selling
& all the things which contain with gems has
belonged to king. Because of that there were no
any residential areas.
According to the Rev. Ellawala Medhanandas researches on Atakalan Korale, Pallebedda
Glpaya area there are lot of gems & no any residential areas in low country wet zone & near
to Adams’ Peak.(5 A.D & 3 A.D century)( Reference: Book of Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume i,
pages 243-245)
Old Bodhi Tree
There is an old Bodhi tree planted in Pelmadulla
Ganegama Aramana Pola Viharaya. People believe that
tree was planted in Anuradhapura Era. “Sinhala Bodhi
Wanshaya” which was wrote by Rev. Wilgamula thero in
Kurunegala Era, it had also mention this tree was
planted in Anuradhapura era by king Devanampiyathisa.
Picture 2
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Map 3

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Map 4
According to that book, this Bo tree is one of branch out of sacred 32 branches which
occurred from sacred Jaya Sri Bo tree in Anuradhapura,can found at Ganegama temple
Pelmadulla. (Reference: Sinhala Bodi Wanshaya, page 282/ Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume ii, page
458)
In Anuradhapura Era the kings who control that province has make several companionships
with Sabaragamuwa province. Though it is there is no any report about place Pelmadulla &
its’ settlement.
In 1017 Anuradhapura kingdom has captured by Soli & at that moment there was a fortress
in Rathnapura area. But it is no reports about Pelmadulla. (Reference: Sabaragamu
Wanshakathawa volume i, Page 260)
Polonnaruwa Era
The king of Polonnaruwa Vijayabahu I had married to Queen Thiloka Sundari & princess that
they had, Rathnawalee got married with King Manabarana. In that moment the ruler of law
country, Manabarana had two daughters & one son. He named Parakramabahu. In 1132
after the death of the Vijayabahu I His son Gajabahu get the throne. Then after the king
Kithsirimewan Parakramabahu became as the king of Polonnaruwa Kingdom. But there was
raised of enemies from Ruhuna to the king. At that time the ruler of the Ruhuna,
Manabarana & his mother queen Sugala made those fighting things. So far controle that
there were some wars has occurred in Sabaragamuwa Province also. To the belongings to
the throne the symbol the tooth relic was with Manabarana & queen Sugala & the king
should fight for that. For that purpose to capture the army of queen Sugala had do their
journey across that Denawaka (Pelmadulla) area.
Name “Denawaka” was the famous name for Pelmadulla in Polonnaru Era.
Locationof “Dona
Wakka” Denawaka
fromPolannarau
Era Map

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In that period Pelmadulla area was covered in forest & there was no easy accessibility to
that area according to book of “Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa”. Although Pelmadulla used
as fighting ground between Rajarata & Ruhuna there are no records about any human
settlements. ”. (Reference: Book of Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume i, page 266-268, Book of
Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume ii, page 627)
Also there are no records about Pelmadulla in South west Kingdoms period (Dabadeniya
Kingdom, Yapahuwa Kingdom & Kurunegala Kingdom) & Gampola era.
Kotte Era
Rathnapura Sumana Saman Dewol was established in that era.
In end of 15th century the present Sabaragamuwa has contain to the Kotte Kingdom. Weera
Parakramabahu viii a member of royal family has ruled here.
Parakramabahu IV (1412-1467) has established many temples. Aramana Pola Viharaya
which is located in Ganegama Pelmadulla was established in in that period.
Aramana Pola Viharaya
Ganegama Aramana Pola Raja Maha Viharaya is
historical place in Rathnapura District. It has old
monastery. This temple has few names, these are,
 “Denawaka Viharaya”
 “Ganegama temple”
 “Aramana Pola Viharaya”.
Reason of this temple called as Denawaka Viharaya.
Main reason of that is the natural environmental setting of this area. In very first time
people called this area as Denawaka. Because of the Denawaka river goes through this area.
Also, Denawaka is located between hilltop of Kiribathgala & hilltop of Kuttapitiya. So, this
area called as “Dona Wakka” after it became “Denawaka”. There was a temple located in
Denawaka it also called as “Denawaka Viharaya”.
Reason of this temple called as Aramana Pola Viharaya.
King Wijayabhahu i wanted to rebuild Budddhism in Sri Lanka after influence of Soli.
According to the Mahawansha, He brought to twenty of monks from Aramana area
(Myanmar) for that. (Reference: Mahawanshaya 60 Pari 4-8 songs/Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volumeii,
page 458) People believe these twenty of monk were staying this temple. So, it called as
Aramana Pola Viharaya.
Picture 3

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Reason of this temple called as Ganegama Temple.
Buddhism was declined at era of Kandy because of the colonial period of the country. But in
that period there was monks called as “Ganinwahansela” lived in this temple & they
maintained this temple. So this place called as Ganegama temple. (Reference: Sabragamu
Wanshakathawa volume ii, Page 458)
However this temple established as complete temple in King Parakramabhahu IV period in
Kotte era. Because of Anuradhapura era there was only Bo tree. Then there was a small &
temporary residence of monks in Polonnaruwa era. Following whole development was
come under the era of Kotte.
This temple has Buddha statue which was made by wood. People of Kotte era famous for
stone door carving (Gal Uluvhu). So this temple has stone door carving second floor of
Ganegama Viharaya & it comprise to ere of Kotte. Also some stone carvings have futures of
Auradhapura & Polonnaru era in this temple. According to the content of doctor of
philosophy Siri Gunasinghe ruined of painting of this temple also comprise to era of Kotte.
(Reference: “Mahanuwara Yugaye Bithu Situwam Predesika Shailiy -Sabaragamuwa”, page 1-16, Art Magazine,
9th volume, December 1962) King Parakramabhahu IV established this temple step by step &
then he this temple offered to Pepiliyana Sunethra Devi Piriven. He mentioned this offer by
royal grant. (Details of this royal grant attach as appendix) Also in Saman Dewol Perahera season
monks who lived in Ganegama temple took in procession to Saman Dewol as a custom.
These are the important thing around Aramana Pola Viharaya in Kotte era. (Referece:
Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume ii, page 459-460)
Socio-Economic Data
Then people have settled around the Aramana Pola Viharaya & they spent self-sustaining
lives in Kotte kingdom & cultivated paddy fields & Chena. There were no any facilities like
transportation, etc. People spent simply lives in that era.
Administrative Boundary of Sabaragamuwa
From Rathnapura to across Denawaka to Babarabotuwa area as a boundary of
Sabaragamuwa according to charters of Sabaragamu Saman Devol, Pepiliyana & Weragama
at period of King Sri Sangabodi Parakramabahu.
Seethawaka Era
King Buvanekabahu captured Sethawaka Kingdom under the patronage of Martin Aponsu
De Sousa. The End of the “Vijayabha Kollaya” divided kingdom. According to that oldest
Buvanekabahu became as great king of the Kotte kingdom, Valallavita & Pasyodun korals
gave to Prince Pararajasinghe & Denawaka, Sathara Korals, half of the Hewagam Korals,
Kuruwita, Panawal, Hadapandunna, Beligal & Dehigampal korals gave to Prince Mayadunne.
Though King Mayadunne also got helps from Samorin king Buvanekabahu chased away

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Mayadunne from Seethawaka. Deflated King Maya Dunne, Batugedara in Rathnapura
District near to Pelmadulla make as his Kingdom for three years. (References: Sabaragamu
Wanshakathawa Volume i, Pages 288-290)
After the King Dharmapala became a Christian the kingdom has divided in to two equally &
the Kingship should go to the king Mayadunne & most of people also in that opinion. But
according to the custom that takes care of Tooth Relic would suit to the royal seat, When
King Darmapala Nilame called Hiripitiye rala has taken the Tooth Relic secretly. Because of
that people tend of the raising power of Seethawaka he thought of law protection & plant
to hide the tooth relic in a bran mill stone & make worship for that. After the death of King
Mayadunne His son Rajasinghe get the tooth relic from bran mill stone & the hand over it to
the head of the temple Rev. Mahindalankara & bring it to Sabaragamuwa Saman Devol &
treat & worship it by getting support of his rule time through eleven years. It proved by the
“Saman Siritha” & “Perani Lekam Mitiya”. It mentioned Pelmadulla & other six villages were
worshiped to tooth relic. (References: Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume i, Pages 294)
Since 1415 the capital Kotte of King Lankadhieshwaras was completely end up with the
capture able activities of Rajasinghe in Seethawaka Kingdom, in 1956. At that moment
Denawaka & the areas in Sabaragamuwa Province also captured by Seethawakan Kingdom.
Era, Kandy
After the fallen of Seethawaka kingdom, Sabaragamuwa Province can be seen as one time
under the Kandy Kingdom & one time under the foreign captures. There is two main ways
which the army has been going an across the Sabaragamuwa Province.
In Kandy era Sabaragamuwa had identified as 5th Maha Disawa. It consisted with seven
Korala, Pelmadulla belonged to Navadun Koralaya. (Reference: Book of Heritage of Rathnapura
(“Ithihasika Rathnapura) page 57)
Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe (1747-1760) became as the king of the Kandy Kingdom. In his ruling
time there are two special things happened in history with Sabaragamuwa Province.
 The power has increased of Sabaragamu leaders
 After Dutch captured the coastal areas the people in Sabaragamuwa Province always
caught to the fights which have happened among Dutch & the Kandy Kingdom.
(References: Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume i, Pages 319-320)
In “Kalikala Sahithya Sarwagna Panditha Parakramabahus’” era Saman Devol has established
& it rehabilitate by Parakamabahu vi, seethawaka Rajasinghe & Rajasinghe ii, After
Portuguese destroy it in the time of King Rajasinghe ii has rehabilitate & hand over an
elephant & royal jewelry also.

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Pelmadulla Raja Maha Viharaya
Pelmadulla Raja Maha Viharaya is another historical place in Pelmadulla area. From the very
past period people used to call this temple as “Dagop Viharaya”, “Pelmadulu
Viharaya”&“Maha Pansala”.
During the period of last Sinhala King Sri Weera Parakrama Narendrasinghe (1706-1739)
Pelmadulla temple has established by the guidance of Rev. Weliwita Sri Saranankara thero.
In 1752 Pelmadulla temple has hand over to Rev. Werahelle Dammadina thero by Rev.
Saranankara thero.
There is a temple in Pelmadulla area & after the land captured by Portuguese & Dutch the
Buddhism also going vanish. At that time near the temple Pelmadulla there is a person who
stayed named “Sapugaskande” has worship the temple as a daily work. After that news
heard by the King Sri Vijaya Rajasinghe had gave the village Pelmadulla Gama to that temple
& developed it & then started “Upasampada” in that temple out of the Kandy Kingdom.
There was a very much development in religious & literally at the end of the 19th century.
There is a foundation of religious raising campaigns has established & in 1867 “Tripitaka
Sangayana” has hold in that temple. (References: Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume i, Pages 322-
323, Book of Heritage of Rathnapura (“Ithihasika Rathnapura) page 315-316)
Pelmadulla Piriven
In 1826 Pelmadulla piriven started to provide Dharma education to monks by Rev. Galle
Medankara thero. The Rev. Wallane Sidhdartha thero & Rev. Hikkaduwe Sumangala thero
were students of that piriven.
Tampita Viharaya of Pelmadulla Viharaya
This Viharaya has small “Tampita” viharaya & it was built by
King Kerthi Sri Rajasinghe period. This viharaya had old
paintings but those were ruined around 1940. (Reference: Book
of Heritage of Rathnapura (“Ithihasika Rathnapura) page 232-233)
Sudarshana Daham Hall
Sudarshana Daham Hall was built by Idhdhamalgoda Nilame
who was the Nilame of Sabaragamu Sumana Saman Devol in
1867-1868 periods. Wariyagama Nilame also helped to build
this hall. Sudarshana Daham Hall blended with Kandyan
architecture & European architecture.(References: Sabaragamu
Wanshakathawa Volume ii, Pages 494- 495)
Picture 4
Picture 5

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Portuguese period
Administration Changes of Sabaragamuwa under Portuguese Period
Portuguese came to the Sri Lanka in November of 1505. Their arrival very effected to the
administrative changes in whole country. According to that there was some changes
occurred in Sabaragamuwa. In Kandy era Sabaragamuwa had identified as 5th Maha Disawa.
It consisted with seven Korala. Among that they removed Kolonna Koral & Kadawatu Koral &
added Hewawasam Koral (now it is under the Western Province), Dehigampala Korals,
Panawal Koral & Atalugama Koral (now these are under the Kegalle District) as
Sapbaragamu Dishawa. In that period Pelmadulla belonged to Sabaragamu Dishawa.
Then 19th century Administration of Sri Lanka divided in to major two parts. There are
provinces of costal administration & provinces of upcountry administration. Sabaragamuwa
belonged to Upcountry in here. (Reference: Book of Heritage of Rathnapura (“Ithihasika Rathnapura)
page 58)
Beginning of 16 Century Map of Sri Lanka Political Boundary of Dutch Period
There are no another records about Portuguese & Dutch period & their activities in
Pelmadulla.
Map 6Map 5

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Map 7 Map 8
British Period (1815-1948 A.D)
Administrative History
After showing the partition in Thun Koralaya, Sabaragamuwa & Uva Provinces they name
leaders in separately.
To reduce the controlling cost in 1833 under the Kolbrouk Commision the whole island has
divided to five control units called “Provinces”. At there the Thun Koralaya & Satara
Koralaya which contain to Present Sabaragamuwa Province belong to Western Province &
the “Sabaragamuwa Disa waniya” belonged to the Southern Province divided in 1889.
At the end of 19th century the number of controlling unit has upgraded 5 to 9. Under the
British Sabaragamuwa Province was the novel controlling unit.
11th march 1887 Rathnapura town became a local board. It included seven coralls.
1. Kuruwita Coralls (Kuruwita)
2. Navadun Coralls (Pelmadulla)
3. Kukulu Coralls
4. Atakalan Coralls
5. Kolanna Coralls
6. Mid Coralls
7. Kadawath Coralls

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That coralls ruled by twenty eight village councils, in 1912 hold last election of village
councils. According to 1920 number 11 Province constitution council act Rathnapura
became a Provincial Constitution Council under the Menin Constitution. Then, Rathnapura
became an Urban Development Council under in 1939 number 61 act. In 1965 under 17th
Municipal Council act Rathnapura Urban Council became Municipal Council. Under that one
urban council three minor Urban Councils had formed. Pelmadulla was one minor urban
council from that three. (Reference: Book of Heritage of Rathnapura (“IthihasikaRathnapura) page 56-59)
Development of Pelmadulla with British Period
Before British ruling time all Sri Lankans’ as well as Sabaragamuwa peoples’ occupation was
farming & they cultivated vegetables, Fruits, Herbs, & Grains.
British started Plantation in Sabaragamuwa province in 1833.First they had grown coffee but
it was not succeeded as they wish. After that they moved to tea & rubber plantation. In
1905-1908 British people started rubber plantation in Pelmadulla & Kuruwita areas due to
favorable environment conditions in these two areas.
“Fingly Company” has started tea plantation in Rathnapura district in 1892. “Mucd at kings
Spens Company” has started tea plantation in Pelmadulla, Rakwana areas.
To work this plantation sites South Indian Tamil labours has bought to Sri Lanka & they
settled in the plantation estates. Rilhena Estate was one of it. With related to this plantation
sector different kind of new culture has built that unique to plantation labours. Also new
estate hospitals, estate schools, Hindu temples, line rooms were built to them in estate.
Estate school, Estate hospital & line rooms are built in Rilhena estate by British.
With the development that occurred through plantation sector the quality of life of the
people who live in this area has developed. (References: Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume ii,
Pages 789-779)
Bapits Mishanari School Pelmadulla
To provide English knowledge & promote catholic religion Britain started Mishanari schools
all around the Sri Lanka. According to that in 1885 Bapits Mishanari School was started in
Pelmadulla area.
“Kannanara Era”
In 1920 to 1948 was known as “Kannangara Era” at that time large number of Sinhala
Buddhist schools were started. According to that in 1920 Pelmadulla Sudarmodhaya Piriven
was started & Ganegama, Godagahawatta Buddhist Mix School which started in 3rd of
March 1829. It has converted into Pelmadulla Central Collage in 3rd of January 1946.
(Reference: Sabaragamu Wanshakathwa Volume iii, Pages 1132-1133)

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Ganegama, Godagahawatta Buddhist Mix School
Pelmadulla Central Collage was started as Ganegama, Godagahawatta Buddhist Mix School
which started in 3rd of March 1829.
flash back the history of Gankanda College, there find three brothers called,
"Punchimahattaya Gankanda", "Dingirimahattya Gankanda" and "Heenmahattaya
Gankanda”, the famous philanthropists who had started this school and it has been
ceremonially opened by Sir.D.B.Jayathilaka in 1929 with 40 students and 4 teachers.
It has converted into Pelmadulla Central Collage in 3rd of January 1946 by Dr. C.W.W
Kannangara.
Mr. T.C.I. Ekanayake was the first Principal of Pelmadulla Central Collage. (Reference: Book of
Suvarina Sameeksha, pages 1-5)
Incipient Principals of Pelmadulla Central Collage
Mr. T.C.I. Ekanayake. Mr. A.V. Gunapala. Mr. Keerithi Disanayake
Picture 6
Picture 7, 8, 9

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Road development under the British period
Map 9

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In year 1832 Rathnapura Rakwana road & Rathnapura Buddulla road construction were
started across the Pelmadulla area. In 1851- 1870 period minor roads have constructed that
started from these major roads.
With started of plantation constructed roads by Britain. They used stone & gravel for that
roads. Then they introduced “Telferd” system in 1861 & “Makadam” system in 1885. Those
systems helped to develop condition of the roads. Also they constructed bridges between
1885- 1900 for those roads. (Reference: Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume ii, pages 632-633)
Map of Main road in Rathnapura constructed by Britain
There was a rest house in Pelmadulla & Agricultural Productivity Centre in Rilhena area this
was built by Britain.
People spent simply lives before British period. Therefore people moved from self-
sustaining economy to Commercial economy with commercial vegetation. There was a
development in Pelmadulla with the influence of Britain in that manner.
Map 10

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Post-Independence Period (1948- 1978)
After obtained independence from Britain in 1948, Sri Lankans became an independence
country. In that period lot of political & administrative development has occurred in
Pelmadulla area.
In 1959 Pelmadulla area became election division. Bellow people have got seats through
Pelmadulla election division. (Reference: Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume iii, page 1229)
 Mr. W.A Karunasena
 Mr. Chandrasekara Gankanda
 Mr. Gamini Atukorala
 Mr. Heenmahathtaya Liyanage
 Mr. A.D. Vanniarachi
They developed Pelmadulla election division day by day. Like that Pelmadulla Cinema hall
built by Mr. Chandrasekara Gankanda. In that period there was no any bus terminal in
Pelmadulla area. So it was established by politicians in that period. Government dispensary
also established in this area. Pelmadulla area was development in that manner.
Village headman systemwas cancelled in 1963, & then established “Grama Niladari” system.
According to that whole Pelmadulla area divided in to several GN divisions. (Reference:
Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume iii, page 1227)
According to law court act in 1972 & 13th constitution amendment in 1987 established law
court in Sri Lanka. Pelmadulla magistrate court has established. (Reference: Sabaragamu
Wanshakathawa volume iii, page 1243)
In 27th August 1963 the name of Pelmadulla Central Collage changed as Gankanda Central
Collage to honor to collage founder. As well as Baptis Mishanari School which built by
Britain converted in to Pelmadulla Darmaloka Vidyalaya in 1970. Also Mahinda Vidyala was
established in this period.
Road Development with Related to Plantation Estate
The existing minor road network had been constructed providing access to the plantations.
It is therefore intended that a new road network. (Minor road & foot path) improved
physical integration. The foot path system is particular has been designed taking note of the
shortest distance, geographical contours & least cost of construction.
Housing Clusters of Rilhena Estate
There was a Janawasa Commission in that period according to the residential houses of the
Janawasa settlers are being constructed along the estate boundaries in a scattered manner.

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An extent of 30 perches has been allocated to an individual block for person as authorized
by the Janawasa Law Act of 1976.
There was a rest house building which built by Britain has converted to Regional income
officer’s office in 1972. After that building used as Assistant government agent’s office in
end of the post-independence period.
In that manner Pelmadulla was development with post-independence period.
Present Period (from 1978 to now)
Administrative Development
In 1981, minor urban council systemwhich was established by Britain was cancelled. In 1988
“Pradesiya Sabha” system was started & Pelmadulla is one Pradesiya Sabha in Rathnapura
District out of 13. Pelmadulla area governs by Pelmadulla Pradesiya Sabhawa from 1988 to
present. Regional sectary became an authoritative person of Pradesya Sabha through
Number 58th act in 1992. (Reference: Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume iii, page 1243)
Development Related to Plantation Estate
Government has attention to estate labours & their welfare in 1980. According to that
established Ministry of government plantation & provided to facilities to the estate labours.
They got houses behalf of their line rooms. Also estate hospital took under the Department
of Health. Facilities provided to estate labours by government in that manner. (Reference:
Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume ii, page 779)
Development of Pelmadulla
 In 1997 Pelmadulla post office was established face to Colombo Budulla road &
Colombo Embilipitiya road.
 Pelmadulla dispensary was converted to Base Hospital in 20th century.
 In 1991 Gankanda Central Collage became as a national school.
 Mosque established for Muslim people in Pelmadulla.
 There was not any police station in Pelmadulla area but established one police check
point back side of the bus terminal in terrorism period.
 Assistant government agent’s office where was hold in rest house building it is using
as regional sectary office since 1986.
 Public playground, public library, main clock tour, Buddhist shine room & Saturday
fair were established.
 Road network has developed day by day with the increase of population. According
to “Mahinda Chintana” demarche rule areas of Pelmadulla has developed specially
rule areas of Pelmadulla has good access ways now.
Day by day Pelmadulla has become current situation

20
Brief Detail of Socio Economic Data of Present Pelmadulla
Most of people of this area mainly engage in land related occupation. Pelmadulla is very
famous for gems as well as most of people engage in gem related industry.
Such as,
 Gem mining industry
 Gem business industry
 Gem cutting industry
As well as plantation industry which started from British era still ongoing industry &
considerable amount of people engage in plantation industry. Lot of people has improved
their economy as tea small holders. Also people are engaging cultivation side. Especially
people are doing paddy cultivation & Chena cultivation.
People who live in this area living very friendly but they belong to different cultures &
different religion. Most of business men of Pelmadulla town are Tamils & Muslims.
Development is not limited to town area & development still ongoing field to rural villages
of Pelmadulla area.
(Reference: These details taken from interview of Grama Niladhari of Pelmadulla GN)
Picture 10 Picture 11
Picture 12

21
3D View of Pelmadulla Town Area
Maps don’t give three dimensional view of the any area. It gives only two dimensional views
of the area.
When talk about three dimensional view of the Pelmadulla area, in town area we can see
linier settlements & when go away from the town area we can see dispersed settlements.
Linier settlement mainly developed between main roads which Rathnapura Balangoda road
& Ratnapura –Embilipitiya road. When go away from these main roads linier settlement
disappeared & we can see dispersed settlement in rural area.
This goggle image gives clear idea about these types of settlements
Map 11
Rathnapura- BalangodaRoad
Rathnapura- EmbilipitiyaRoad
Liniersettlement
Dispersed settlement

22
There are number of storied building between main roads of Pelmadulla but some buildings
are one storied. Main bus terminal of Pelmadulla which located in center of the town is one
storied building. Most of Buildings are link with each other.
Following Pictures help to recognize three dimensional view of Pelmadulla town area.
Picture 16Picture 15
Picture 14
Picture 13

23
Picture Collection of Pelmadulla Area
Pelmadulla Raja Maha Viharaya (Tempita Viharaya)
Old Photograph Present Photograph
Sudarshana Daham Hall
Dharma Mandapaya of Sudarshana Daham Hall

24
Ganegama Purana Raja Maha Viharaya
PresentPhotographs
Picture 25
Picture 27
Picture 26

25
Pelmadulla Purana Raja Maha Viharaya
Present Photographs
Picture 28 Main Entrance
Picture 30 Tampita Viharaya Picture 31 Main Shine Room
Picture 29 MainPagoda
Picture 34
Picture 32 “Temagul Viharaya” Picture 33 MainDevalaya

26
Pelmadulla Central Collage
Sudarmodhaya Piriven
PresentPhotograph
Soulbury Commissioners visited Saman Dewa Perehera of
Pelmadulla (3rd March1945) Galpothtawela Raja Maha Viharaya
(27th Dec. 2012)
Picture 37 Picture 39Picture 38

27
Pelmadulla Town Area
PresentPhotographs
ClockTour BusTerminal
PostOffice In Front of the Bus Terminal
VidyalaMawatha PelmadullaBoTree Junction

29
How people settled in Pelmadulla.
01 PolonnaruwaEra
 Kingsuse thisarea as theirbattle-field
& there isevidence aboutfoot path.
 There wasno any settlement
There are norecords aboutPelmadullainSouth
westKingdomsperiod(DabadeniyaKingdom,
YapahuwaKingdom& KurunegalaKingdom) &
Gampolaera.
02 Kotte Era
 There wasa one temple calledas
“AramanapolaRajaMaha Viharaya”in
Ganegamaarea. It wasestablishedby
Prarkramabahuivperiodrelatedto
SumanaSaman Dewol.
 There were some residential,paddy
fields,chenacultivationaroundthe
temple &alongthe footpath.
 The main footpathwhichusedin
polonnaruwaerahadconvertedinto
cart road.
There are norecords aboutPortuguese &
Dutch period&theiractivitiesinPelmadulla
03 Era, Kandy
 Pelmadullaviharayaestablishedby
WeeraParakrama Narendrasinghe.
 PelmadullapirivenestablishbyRev.

30
04
BritishPeriod(1815-1948)
WelivitSri Saranankarathero.
 There were some residential,paddy
fields,chenacultivationaroundthese
all temples&alongthe footpath & cart
roads.
 In 1832 RathnapuraRakwanaroad &
RathnapuraBuddullaroadconstruction
were startedacrossthe Pelmadulla
area.In 1851- 1870 periodminorroads
have constructedthatstartedfrom
these majorroads.
 The existingminorroadnetworkhad
beenconstructedprovidingaccessto
the plantations.
 Britishpeople wereintroducedtea&
rubberplantation&establishedtea
estates& rubberestates.Toworkthis
plantationsitesSouthIndianTamil
labourshas boughttoSri Lanka & they
settledinthe plantationestates.
 In 1885 BapitsMishanari School was
startedinPelmadullaarea.
 In 1920 PelmadullaSudarmodhaya
Pirivenwasstarted&Ganegama,
GodagahawattaBuddhistMix School
whichstartedin3rd
of March 1829. It
has convertedintoPelmadullaCentral
Collage in3rd
of January1946.
 Resthouse & Agricultural Productivity
Centre were establishedbyBritain.
 Many footpathconvertedtocart road
or minorroads

31
05 Post-Independence period(1948-1978)
 Accordingto law court act in 1972 &
13th
constitutionamendmentin1987
establishedlaw courtinSri Lanka.
Pelmadullamagistrate courthas
established.
 In 27th August1963 the name of
PelmadullaCentral Collage changedas
GankandaCentral Collage tohonorto
collage founder.
 BaptisMishanari School whichbuiltby
BritainconvertedintoPelmadulla
DarmalokaVidyalayain1970.
 PelmadullaMahindaVidyalawas
establishedinthisperiod.
 Gankandacinemahall,Busterminal &
PelmadullaDispensarywere
established.
 Resthouse buildingwhichbuiltby
Britainhas convertedtoRegional
income officer’soffice in1972. After
that buildingusedasAssistant
governmentagent’soffice.
06 PresentPeriod(after1978 to now)
 In 1997 Pelmadullapostoffice was
established.
 Pelmadulladispensarywas converted
to Base Hospital in20th century.
 In 1991 GankandaCentral Collage
became as a national school.
 Mosque establishedforMuslimpeople
inPelmadulla.
 Police checkpointestablishedbackside

32
of the busterminal interrorismperiod.
 Assistantgovernmentagent’soffice
where washoldinresthouse buildingit
isusingas regional sectaryoffice since
1986.
 Main road networkwasconverted
carpet roads& otherroadsbecame in
goodcondition.
 Publicplayground,publiclibrary,Main
clock tour,Buddhistshine room&
Saturdayfair were established.

33
Referencess
Books
Book 1
 Name of the Book: Sabaragamu Wanshakatawa i
 Executive Editor: Mr. Pandula Adagama
 Assistant Editor: Mr. Saviman Urugodawatta
 Board of Editors: Rev. Ellawala Medananda Thero
Rev. Madalagama Vajira Buddi Thero
Mr. Siril Chandrasekara Gunawardhana
 Publisher: Sabaragamuwa Province Council
 Year of publish: 2003 (first edition November 2003)
 Reference Captures: Capture 5: History (Author: Pro. Malani Adhagama)
5.1 From Pre Historic Era to Polonnaruwa Era
Pre Historic Era- old period (Page no. 243-244)
Colonization (Page no. 244-246)
5.2 From Polonnaruwa Era to Sithawaa Era
5.3 From Sithawaka Era to Modern Era
Book 2
 Name of the Book: Sabaragamu Wanshakatawa ii
 Year of publish: 2003 (first edition December 2003)
 Reference Capture : Capture 7 Historical Heritage in Sabaragamuwa
7. a. 1.2 Tampita vihara in Rathnapura District
Pelmadulla Raja Maha Viharaya (Page no. 439)
7. a. 1. 3 Temples in Rathnapura District
Ganegama Aramanapola Raja Maha Viharaya (Page no. 458-
461)
Pelmadulla Purana Raja Maha Viharaya( Page no. 479-482)

34
Sudarshana Dharma Shalava (page no. 494-495)
7. c. 1 Historical road of Sabaragamuwa province (page no. 622- 637)
Capture 8: Natural Resources & Human Activities in Sabaragamuwa
8. c. 3 Plantation Industry of sabaragamuwa (page no. 769-779)
Book 3
 Name of the Book: Sabaragamu Wanshakatawa iii
 Year of publish: 2003 (first edition December 2003)
 Reference Capture : Capture 11 Education & Education Centers in
Sabaragauwa
11.2 Base of the Evocation of Modern Education in Sabaragamuwa (page 1119-1121)
11.4 a. School Education of Sabaragamuwa : History & Evolution (page 1126-1139)
Capture 13 Government Administration
13.1 Government Administration in Sabaragamuwa: Historical Era (page 1219-1224)
13.2 Government Administration in Sabaragamuwa: Modern Era (page1225-1231)
13.3 Provincial Administrative System (page 1241-1243)
Book 4
 Name of the Book: Heritage of Rathnapura
( Sabaragamu Udana no. 2)
 Editor: Mr. Bandula Liyanage
 Publisher: Ministry of Education , Health & cultural
Sabaragamuwa Province Council, Rathnapura
 Year of publish: 20th of October 1992.
 Print By: Tilak print private limited , Pannipitiya
 Reference Capture:
Capture 02: Pre History of Sabaragamu (page no 7-8)
Capture 07: Provincial Administrative History of Rathnapura (page no. 53-65)
Capture 29: Historical Sudarshana Dhaham Hall in Pelmadulla (page no. 215-217)
Capture 30: Historical Dhaham Convocation in Pelmadulla (page no. 218-228)
Capture 42: Pelmadulla Purana Viharaya (page no. 315-316)

35
Aramana Pola Viharaya (page no. 316)
Book 5
 Name of the Book: Sabaragamu Bodu Urumaya
 Author: This book was written by many Authors
 Publisher: Shama nikaika,
Sabaragamu Sri Sumangala Sanga Shabhawa
 Year of publish: 2003
Book 6
 Name of the Book: Swarina Sameeksha (Denawaka Puanaya) 1946-1976
 Author: Mr.Syman Urugodawathta
 Publisher: R/ Gankanda Central Collage
 Year of publish: 1976
People Interviews
 Mr. Harry Weerasekara
Former Basnayaka Nilame of Urugal Aluthnuwara Kataragama Dewol
(Mr. Dayawansha Karunamuni wrote a biography about Mr. Harry
Weerasekara. Mr. Harry Werasekara gave some information through this
book.)
Data of Interview: 28th October 2012
 Rev. Somananada Thero
Monk of Pelmadulla Raja Maha Viharaya
Principal of Dhaham school of Pelmadulla Raja Maha Viharaya
Data of Interview: 28th October 2012
(I get details about temples in Pelmadulla & how people settled around those temples from
past time.)
 Mr. Siripala
Grama Niladari of Pelmadulla Grama Niladhari Division
(I get detail about history of Pelmadulla AG office, Dharmaloka Navodhya School, Post
Office, Police Check Point & socio economic data of Pelmadulla area likewise I get details
through the interview.)

36
Case Study of University of Moratuwa
Name: The implication of land reform in the planned development of rural settlements with
special reference of the Rathnapura District
Witter: W.A. Siriwaedane
Faculty of Architecture
June 1977
Map No. 10- Existing Structure Plan of Pelmadulla Area, Page 113
Map No. 11- Location of Janawasa with Surrounding Villages & Service Centers, Page 114
(I refer those maps for get details & update maps.)
Sourcefor Maps
Map 1- Location map of Pelmadulla…………………………………….prepared that map using Arc GIS
Map 2- Google image of Pelmadulla town area………………………………………….………Google earth
Map 3- Ancient divisions of Ceylon………………..http://www.jafnahistory.com (22nd Dec. 2012)
Map 4- Map of Polonnaruwa era………………Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume I, page 269
Map 5- Beginning of 16 Century map of Sri Lanka……… Book of Social Study & History Grade
10, page 49
Map 6- Political Boundary of Dutch Period……..Book of Social Study & History Grade 10, page
55
Map 7- Provincial map in 1833…………………. Book of Social Study & History Grade 10, page 70
Map 8- Provincial map after of 19th century ……....http://www.jafnahistory.com (22nd Dec.
2012)
Map 9- Road map of British period…………… Book of Social Study & History Grade 10, page 79
Map 10-Main road in Rathnapura……………. Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume I, page 630
Map 11-Map of Pelmadulla………………………………………………… prepared that map using Arc GIS

37
Sourcefor Pictures
Picture 1- Picture of according to the folk
tale…………………………………………..http://www.google.lk
Picture 2-Old Bo tree…………………………..…………http://www.parnoramio.com (22nd Dec. 2012)
Picture 3-Aramana Pola Viharaya…………………..http://www.parnoramio.com (22nd Dec. 2012)
Picture 4-Tampita Viharaya………………….… Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume II, page 481
Picture 5- Sudarshana Daham Hall………. Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume III, Page 1131
Picture 6-Godagahawatta Buddhist Mix School……http://www.parnoramio.com (29th Dec.
2012)
Picture 7, 8, 9-Incipient Principals of G.C.C………..http://www.gankanda.com (22nd Dec. 2012)
Picture 10, 11, 12 Gem industry……………………..http://www.parnoramio.com (29th Dec. 2012)
Picture 13-16 Pelmadulla 3D view…………………. http://www.parnoramio.com (29th Dec. 2012)
Picture 17-Tampita Viharaya……………….… Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume II, page 481
Picture 18- Tampita Viharaya……………….… Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume II, page 465
Picture 19- Sudarshana Daham Hal…….. Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume III, Page 1131
Picture 20-Sudarshana Daham Hall (present Photograph)…………..this photo was taken by me
Picture 21- Daham Mandapaya……………………….……”Ithihasika Rathnapura” Picture collection
Picture 22- Daham Mandapaya ……………………. http://www.parnoramio.com (29th Dec. 2012)
Picture 22-27 – Ganegama Temple……………… http://www.parnoramio.com (22nd Dec. 2012)
Picture 28-34- Pelmadulla Temple………………... http://www.parnoramio.com (29th Dec. 2012)
Picture 35-Pelmadulla Central Collage…….……http://www.parnoramio.com (29th Dec. 2012)
Picture 36- Pelmadulla Central Collage…………http://www.parnoramio.com (29th Dec. 2012)
Picture 37-39 Sudarmodhaya Piriven………………http://www.parnoramio.com (29th Dec. 2012)
Picture 40 Soulbury Commissioners photo……………………..Sabaragmuwe Harry Appo, Page 32
Picture 41 Saman Deva Perahera………………….…………………………….this photo was taken by me
Picture 42-47 Pelmadulla town area………….….. http://www.parnoramio.com (29th Dec. 2012)

38
Sourcefor Maps of chorological order
 Boundary for all maps -Survey Department (I prepared boundary using Arc GIS
software)
 Details of Map of Polonnaruwa era- According to Sabaragamuwa Wanshakathawa
Volume i ,pages 266-268 & Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume ii pages 627
 Details of Map of Kotte Era- According to Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume ii
Pages 458-460, I get socio economic data & settlement data interview from the
Harry Appo.
 Details of Map of era of Kandy- According to Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume i,
Pages 322-323, Book of Heritage of Rathnapura (“Ithihasika Rathnapura) page 315-
316, Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume ii, Pages 494- 495 & I get socio economic
data & settlement data interview from the Harry Appo.
 Details of Map of British period- According to Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa Volume
ii, Pages 789-779, Sabaragamu Wanshakathwa Volume iii, Pages 1132-1133, Book of
Suvarina Sameeksha, pages 1-5, Sabaragamu Wanshakathawa volume ii, pages 632-
633, I get socio economic data & settlement data interview from the Harry Appo &
Grama Niladhari of Pelmadulla area.
 Details of Map of Post-independence period- According to Sabaragamu
Wanshakathawa volume iii, page 1227, Case study of Pelmadulla, I get other
buildings details interview from Grama Niladhari & Harry Appo.
 Details of Map of present period- Data of Survey Department 1984 using Arc GIS
map of Pelmadulla, I get socio economic data, land use data & settlement data
interview from the Harry Appo, Rev. Somananada thero & Grama Niladhari of
Pelmadulla area, I updated some details from go to the filed & see.
(Note: There are no any changes in the government plantation states, because that
plantation states which stated from British era still on going. From before the British era
Pelmadulla area consisted with paddy, Chena, & home gardens. That some paddy areas
& Chena cultivation still there. There are some changes due to the increase of
population of that area. But I updated that land use data according to the eras from get
details through interview people. I prepared those maps like this way.)

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