Northern Province

This administrative division covers the northernmost part of Sri Lanka and includes five districts with Jaffna as the capital. The region extends across flat terrain with coastal sections, lagoons, and agricultural land throughout.

British administrators formed this division in October 1833 as part of their restructuring of colonial governance in Ceylon. Earlier royal structures were dissolved, and the area received new administrative boundaries according to colonial needs.

The population of Northern Province reflects a strong Tamil presence at 93 percent, with Hindu temples and traditional festivals marking the regional identity.

Regional bus routes connect towns within the area, while Jaffna airport offers flight connections. Main roads run through several districts and provide access to coastal sections as well as inland areas.

The flat coastal areas form wide lagoon systems that create habitats for migratory birds and have sustained fishing communities for centuries. These sheltered waters change with the monsoon rhythm and directly influence daily life along the coast.

Location: Sri Lanka

Inception: October 1, 1833

Capital city: Jaffna

Shares border with: North Western Province, North Central Province, Eastern Province

Website: http://np.gov.lk

GPS coordinates: 9.75000,80.03333

Latest update: December 5, 2025 16:37