Akurana

Akurana a town nestled between two major cities, Kandy and Matale, in Sri Lanka. Geographically, it is surrounded by hills and rivers. The Pinga Oya is the main river which cuts through the town. Majority of the population are Muslims (Sri Lanka Moors).

According to Sri Lankan history, this city was presented to the Muslim community by a Sinhalese King for bravery and support of Muslim men in war.

The ancestors of the Akurana Muslims are believed to be Arabs who came to Sri Lanka (Serendib). The Arabs came as traders of spices and gemstones.

Liquor bars are common in Sri Lankan towns and it is notable Akuran does not have one presently due to the religious influence of the community. Liquor shop permits are political instruments in Sri Lanka.

Akurana is situated 6 miles north of Kandy in Sri Lanka. The population is mostly Muslim. Occupation is mostly business, though there are many professionals. Akurana has a large number of 'Akuranites' working all over the island and overseas as well.

The main road is the Matale - Kandy road. The road is A9, the one which connects the North of Sri Lanka with the rest of the Island. Roads branching off include the Dunuvila, Thelumbugahawatte, Bulugohatenna, Neerella and Kurugoda roads.

Akurana has a post office, a state bank (People's Bank) and a kachheri (Divisional Secretary's Office). There are numerous shops in town which cater to the needs of the populace at large. The telecommunication industry is also flourishing.

References:----

[http://www.geocities.com/rumeyj/akurana/akurana.html]