Puttalam’s history dates back to the 3rd–4th century B.C., beginning with the legend of Prince Vijaya and Kuveni at Thambapanni. Ancient texts like the Mahavamsa and Samatha Koota Varnana describe a well-developed civilization with advanced culture and administration. Archaeological findings, such as clay urn burials at Ponparappi, further prove the existence of an organized early society. Its coastal location and trade winds helped the Chilaw–Mannar belt develop into important ports used by Arab, Greek, Persian, and Indian traders.