Introduction

The Balangoda region, known as the golden heritage of South Asian civilization, is a historic and scenic area with a beautiful environment. It is located in the Mahawalatenna division of the Balangoda Electoral Division in Ratnapura District, Sabaragamuwa Province, stretching from the eastern Bauma to Kalthota Bellangala Hill, covering approximately 120 sq. km. Our area of influence is a proud historic region with settlements dating back over 2500 years.

Historically, it was under the rule of Lasama and Sumana kings of the Uggal Kalthota kingdom, along with the regional ruler Suman Saman of Girikula. Archaeological excavations conducted in 2012 revealed that this area was part of one of the world’s oldest Persian settlements exported to Europe. Excavations in Haldummulla, Uggal Kalthota, and Marangahawela revealed important historical information. In 2013, archaeological findings from Kuragala revealed a settlement over 50,000 years old, with remains of humans who lived in structures about 10 feet tall.

The Balangoda Divisional Secretariat covers an area of 120 sq. km, including two divisions: Balangoda and Kalthota, and three police divisions: Balangoda, Kalthota, and Weligepola. The area contains 53 Grama Niladhari divisions. The total population is approximately 62,251, with 54,770 registered voters. The main office of the Balangoda Divisional Secretariat is located along the Balangoda–Kalthota road, about 5 km away, in a scenic area.

Services provided by the Secretariat include issuing building permits and occupancy certificates, water certificates, preschools, Ayurveda services, libraries, cemeteries, weekly fairs, and garbage collection, all of which contribute to improving the living standards of the people in the area.