| Native Name: | Tamil: கல்முனை Sinhala; Sinhalese: කල්මුනේ |
| Settlement Type: | City |
| Pushpin Map: | Sri Lanka |
| Subdivision Type: | Country |
| Subdivision Name: | Sri Lanka |
| Subdivision Type2: | Province |
| Subdivision Name2: | Eastern |
| Subdivision Type3: | District |
| Subdivision Name3: | Ampara |
| Subdivision Type4: | DS Division |
| Subdivision Name4: | Kalmunai |
| Government Type: | Municipal Council |
| Leader Title: | Electoral District |
| Population As Of: | 2011[1] |
| Population Total: | 106,780 |
| Population Density Km2: | 4726 |
| Timezone: | Sri Lanka Standard Time Zone |
| Utc Offset: | +5:30 |
| Pushpin Label Position: | left |
| Coordinates: | 7.4167°N 81.8167°W |
| Kalmunai | |
| Website: | https://www.kalmunai.mc.gov.lk/ |
| Native Name Lang: | Tamil |
| Leader Title1: | Electoral District |
| Leader Name: | Ampara |
| Leader Name1: | Kalmunai |
| Area Total Km2: | 30 |
| Postal Code Type: | Postal code |
| Postal Code: | 32300 |
Kalmunai (Tamil: கல்முனை|translit=Kalmuṉai; Sinhala; Sinhalese: කල්මුනේ|translit=Kalmunē) is a city located in the Ampara District of Eastern Province, Sri Lanka.[2]
The name "Kalmunai" is believed to have originated from the Tamil words "Kal" and "Munai," which respectively mean "stone" and "corner." This name refers to the geographical location of the city, as it is situated at a corner where the land meets the sea. Kalmunai's strategic position along the eastern coast of Sri Lanka has played a significant role in shaping its history and culture.[3]
Kalmunai has a historical background that dates back centuries. The region has been influenced by various civilisations, including the ancient Tamil kingdoms, colonial powers, and the indigenous Muslim community. Over time, Kalmunai became an important trading post due to its coastal location, facilitating maritime trade routes with other countries.[4]
During the Sri Lankan civil war, Kalmunai experienced the devastating effects of the conflict. The city faced numerous challenges, including forced disappearances, civil unrest, and violence targeted at local civilians.
In 2004, Kalmunai was severely impacted by the Indian Ocean tsunami. The natural disaster resulted in the loss of many lives and caused extensive damage to the city's infrastructure and property.
Kalmunai is situated on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, bordered by the Indian Ocean to the east.
Kalmunai MC covers an area of (Data Source _ Survey Department).[5] To the north of Kalmunai lies the village of Periyaneelavanai, which serves as the border between Ampara and Batticaloa Districts. To the south, the city is connected to the suburb of Karaitivu.[6] Kalmunai's geographical features, including its proximity to the ocean and neighboring villages, have shaped its identity and provided opportunities for economic growth.[7]
Kalmunai is known for its diverse population, with a significant majority being Muslims.[9] The city is one of the few municipalities in Sri Lanka where Muslims constitute the majority.
Kalmunai is governed by a system of administrative divisions that reflect the diverse characteristics and neighborhoods within the city. The main divisions of Kalmunai include:[10] [11]
In addition to these divisions based on geographical locations, Kalmunai also has administrative divisions that cater to specific communities:
Kalmunai serves as a major economic hub in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, with key sectors including trade, agriculture, fishing, manufacturing, and services. Kalmunai's coastal location has facilitated international trade, attracting investments and contributing to the city's economic growth.[15]
The commercial centre of Kalmunai is home to a marketplace where a wide range of goods and services are traded. The city's agricultural sector primarily focuses on rice cultivation, horticulture, and fishing, utilizing the fertile land and coastal resources. Kalmunai also hosts various industries, including garment manufacturing, food processing, and construction.
The city's administration collaborates with the central government to implement development projects, improve infrastructure, and address the needs of the local population.
Kalmunai offers a range of educational opportunities to its residents. The city is home to numerous schools, both public and private, providing education from primary to secondary levels.
Kalmunai has several national schools.
In addition to national schools, Kalmunai hosts institutions such as Carmel Fatima College and Zahira college.
Higher education options are also available in Kalmunai, with private colleges offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields.