Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya made these remarks while addressing the event held at Waters Edge, Battaramulla, on July 27, to unveil the "Kingdom of Kotte Tourism Trail", marking the launch of the "Kingdom of Kotte Tourism Initiative" and "Kotte Green Tourism Network."
Addressing the event, the Prime Minister further stated,
This marks the beginning of a new chapter for Sri Lanka. This project is more than just a tourism trail, it is a journey through history, nature, and heritage. We are presented with an opportunity to reintroduce our capital city to the country and to the world, not only as the administrative heart of Sri Lanka, but also as a location with profound historical depth, cultural richness, and environmental value.
Through this, people will have the chance to experience a cultural life, along with everything else this city has to offer. Moreover, as an urban wetland this is a unique one. I believe there are only a handful of capital cities in the world that possess such ecological diversity. Therefore, it is something we can truly promote.
As many are aware, Kotte was established in the 14th century as a fortified capital city. It is a historic city that faced waves of foreign influence, including Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and British powers. It was also the royal residence of King Parakramabahu VI, who unified and ruled Sri Lanka as a sovereign nation.
It is well known that the golden era of Sinhala literature and architecture is also rooted in this city. Remnants of rich history still remain today including the ancient ramparts, moats, religious sites, and monuments that silently narrate the story of a proud and powerful kingdom.
Emphasizing how the past can be connected to the present, the Prime Minister further stated:
Kotte is not something that belongs only to the past. It is a city with rare ecological balance filled with vibrant wetlands and diverse bird life that only a few capital cities in the world are privileged to have. As the world’s first wetland capital, Kotte serves as a living example of how urban life can coexist with biodiversity. If guided by thoughtful planning and deep respect for the environment, this tourism trail of the Kingdom of Kotte can transform into an immersive experience that blends history, culture, and nature.
I invite you to pay attention to Kotte, which has remained hidden for too long. Let it be a place of exploration for both Sri Lankans and international visitors. There is so much in Kotte that many don’t know or fully understand starting from its wetlands to its historical elements. This initiative, supported by the Western Province Tourism Board and Governor Haniff Yusuf, inspired by the vision of State Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe and managed by the Kotte Green Tourism Network, is a strong commitment to community-based and sustainable development. It is also a moment where regional leadership, citizens, and national heritage come together for a common purpose. I extend my appreciation to all organizers and partners of this project on behalf of all Sri Lankans.
This initiative helps us reflect on our capital city not just as an administrative center, but as a living museum and open classroom, where every street corner, wetland, and landmark holds a story. As we begin this new journey, we must ensure that the Kotte tourism project is built not only for foreign guests but also for the communities who call this city home. Let us celebrate our shared heritage, protect it, and hand it over to future generations with care.
Addressing the gathering, State Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Mr. Chathuranga Abeysinghe and State Minister of Tourism Services Mr. Ruwan Ranasinghe stated that this program, one that had been spoken of, worked on, and planned even before the formation of the National People’s Power government has now become a reality, fulfilling another election promise.
Kotte Mayor Mr. Arosha Athapaththu, who also addressed the event, stated that, similar to many major capital cities around the world, Kotte too should have a museum and library that tells the story of the nation and its capital. He assured that the Kotte Municipal Council is always ready to fully cooperate with the government to fulfill those needs.
The event organized by the Kotte Green Tourism Network was attended by the Governor of the Western Province, Haniff Yusuf; Deputy Minister of Industries and Enterprise Development, Chathuranga Abeysinghe; Deputy Minister of Tourism Services, Ruwan Ranasinghe; Mayor of Kotte, Arosha Athapaththu; members of the event’s organizing committee, as well as local and international representatives from the tourism sector.
Prime Minister’s Media Division