Panama Beach

Panama (Tamil: பாணமை, Sinhala: පාණම,  pāṇama;  pāṇamai) is a charming coastal village situated in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. It lies 126 kilometres (78 miles) south of Batticaloa and merely 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) south of Arugam Bay. As the last inhabited settlement in the southernmost part of the province, it falls within the Ampara District. The Kumana Bird Sanctuary and Heritage Park begin just south of Panama.

Historically, Panama served as the capital of the Colonial Panamapattuwa of Mattakkalappu Desam. This ancient village features on historical maps from the Portuguese and Dutch, appearing as Panao, Panova, and Paneme. The population of Panama is predominantly Sinhalese, with a notable minority of Sri Lankan Tamils. The village is also renowned for its Pattini Cult.

With its rich history, stunning natural scenery, and vibrant cultural practices, Panama is an ideal destination for tourists seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Sri Lanka.

Due to its name, Panama has occasionally caused confusion for Sri Lanka Post, leading to local mail being incorrectly redirected to the Central American country of Panama, and vice versa for international correspondence.