The historical city of Upatissa Nuwara, also known as Vijitapura, emerged as the second administrative hub in ancient Sri Lanka’s Kingdom of Rajarata, with its roots tracing back to 505 BC. Established following the passing of King Vijaya, the realm was ushered into existence by Upatissa, Vijaya’s trusted prime minister, after Vijaya’s heir, Panduvasdeva, assumed the throne upon arriving from North India.
Located approximately seven to eight miles farther north of Tambapanni, which existed in an area near present-day Mannar, Upatissa Nuwara, believed to be situated in the district of Chilaw, was named in honor of the regent king, Upatissa. This kingdom’s origins lay in the aftermath of Vijaya’s demise, signaling the conclusion of Tambapanni’s rule.
At the twilight of Vijaya’s reign, the challenge of finding a suitable successor led him to dispatch a missive to Sinhapura, the city of his forefathers, inviting his brother, Sumitta, to ascend the throne. However, Vijaya passed away before the message reached its destination. Consequently, Upatissa, chosen by the people as the trusted minister, assumed the role of regent, acting as the de facto ruler for a year. Following his coronation in Tambapanni, he founded a new capital—Upatissa Nuwara—in a strategic move to relocate the kingdom.
Upon the belated arrival of Vijaya’s missive, Sumitta had already assumed kingship in his homeland. Subsequently, Sumitta delegated his son, Panduvasdeva, to govern Upatissa Nuwara, solidifying its status as a significant seat of power during that era.