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Hingurakgoda Divisional Secretariat

Hingurakgoda (Sinhala: හිගුරක්ගොඩ, Tamil: ஹிங்குராக்கொட) is a Divisional Secretariat of Polonnaruwa District, of North Central Province,Sri Lanka. Hingurakgoda is a vibrant town and serves as a significant cultural, historical, and agricultural hub in the area. Nestled in the North Central Province, the town is a gateway to the ancient and modern narratives of Sri Lanka, blending history with contemporary life.

The Polonnaruwa district has seven divisional secretariats. The largest division is Hingurakgoda, which covers an area of 70,878.33 hectares. In terms of its relative position, the division is bounded by the Anuradhapura district to the north and west, Elahera and Thamankaduwa to the south, Medirigiriya and Lankapura to the east.

According to its absolute location, Hingurakgoda is situated between latitudes 7°53´ and 8°22´ and longitudes 80°45´ and 81°02´E. The national grid system indicates that Hingurakgoda lies between the northern grid numbers 303–348 km and the eastern grid numbers 195–228 km.

The division consists of 53 Grama Niladhari divisions. According to the 2012 population census, the population of Hingurakgoda is approximately 63,000.

Demography-Religion

Historical Background

Hingurakgoda has historical significance that dates back to the era of Sri Lanka's ancient kings. Situated in close proximity to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa (approx. 15 km), the town likely played a supportive role during the Polonnaruwa Kingdom (11th to 13th century CE). Polonnaruwa was a thriving administrative and cultural center, and its influence extended to neighboring regions, including Hingurakgoda. Although Hingurakgoda itself does not feature prominently in ancient chronicles, archaeological findings suggest that it was inhabited during these early periods, potentially serving as an agricultural or trade center supporting the larger kingdom.

Important Religious and Cultural Places

Hingurakgoda is home to various religious and cultural landmarks that reflect the town's diversity and spiritual significance.

  • Buddhist Temples
  1. Unagalawehera Rajamaha Viharaya, Hingurakgoda: A historically significant Buddhist temple, which is situated about 7 km away from the town, is known for its serene environment and the ancient stupa. The temple serves as a center for Buddhist worship and cultural activities.
  2. Somawathi Raja Maha Viharaya (nearby): Although not within the town limits, this temple is a short drive away and is one of the most revered sites in the region, believed to house a relic of the Buddha.
  3. In addition, there are a few ancient temples in the Hingurakgoda area such as Hingurakgala Temple which is a Buddhist temple where there is a stupa on top of a rock.
  • Catholic Churches
  • # Christ the King Church: A prominent Catholic church that caters to the Christian community in Hingurakgoda. Initially Hingurakgoda was a mission place operated by the Diocese of Trinco – Batticalo, Which used to send at different periods various priests to cater to the spiritual needs of the few Catholic families living in the whole area of Hingurakgoda and Polonnaruwa. As a result late Rev. Fr. Sam Alexander who belonged to the Diocese of Trinco- Batticalo came to Hingurakgoda in 1945. He got government land and started a little Church building and a school which is now known as Rajarata Maha Vidyalaya. The parish of Hingurakgoda is dedicated to Christ the King, and belongs to diocese of Anuradhapura, and is in the deanery of Polonnaruwa.
  • Mosques
  • # Hingurakgoda Mohaideen Jumma Mosque: Serving the Muslim community in Hingurakgoda, this mosque is a hub for Islamic religious and cultural practices. It stands as a testament to the town's multi-religious harmony.

Economy

The economy of Hingurakgoda is primarily agrarian. The town is renowned for its paddy cultivation, supported by an intricate irrigation system dating back to ancient times. Hingurakgoda is located near the Minneriya and Kaudulla tanks, which provide water for farming. In addition to agriculture, small-scale industries and trade contribute to the local economy. Hingurakgoda is known for its H4 rice variety.

Education

Hingurakgoda boasts several educational institutions, ranging from primary schools to higher education centers. These institutions cater to a diverse student population, emphasizing the importance of education in regional development. There are 33 schools in the Hingurakgoda Educational Zone. Some of the schools in the area are as follows;

  1. Ananda Balika National School, Hingurakgoda
  2. Rajarata Maha Vidyalaya, Hingurakgoda
  3. Minneriya Central College, Hingurakgoda
  4. Vidyaloka Primary College, Hingurakgoda

Transportation

The town is well-connected by road and rail. The Hingurakgoda Railway Station is part of Sri Lanka's Eastern Railway Line, facilitating easy access to Colombo, Polonnaruwa, and Trincomalee. Buses and other modes of transport make Hingurakgoda a central hub for commuters.

The part of Colombo - Trincomalee main road (A06 Grade) runs through Habarana and Kanthale. Also the part of Maradankadawala - Batticolo main road (A11 Grade) runs through Habarana and Polonnaruwa.

Other Attractions

  1. Minneriya National Park: Located nearby, the park is famous for its "Gathering" of elephants and serves as a key wildlife attraction.
  2. Kaudulla National Park: Another wildlife sanctuary close to Hingurakgoda, known for its biodiversity and birdwatching opportunities.
  3. Ancient Irrigation Systems: Visitors can explore the remnants of ancient irrigation marvels, including canals and tanks, which underscore the engineering ingenuity of Sri Lanka's past.
  4. Hingurakgoda Airport
  5. CIC Farm - Hingurakgoda

References

History of Hingurakgoda Divisional Seceateries

Citizen Charter of Grama Niladhari

Citizen Charter of Divisional Secretariat