Attraction
Kataragama - Devalaya & kirivehera
Kataragama is one of Sri Lanka’s most significant religious pilgrimage destinations, holding deep spiritual importance for various religious communities across the country attracting Buddhists, Hindus, and indigenous Vedda communities. Known for its vibrant religious festivals and rituals, it draws devotees from diverse faiths. The site holds deep cultural significance, symbolizing religious harmony and spiritual devotion, with its temple dedicated to the deity Kataragama.
During the festival season in July and August, thousands of devotees embark on the pilgrimage, which spans a two-week period and the town also experiences its peak activities.
Wadahiti kanda
Wedihiti Kanda, believed to be the dwelling place of God Skanda. It is a prominent
rocky mountain situated approximately 3.5 kilometers from the bungalow. It is a wellknown pilgrimage site for those journeying to Kataragama, At the summit of the
mountain, visitors can explore the remnants of an ancient shrine. The ascent to the top
offers a distinctive spiritual experience, and even for non-believers, the breathtaking
panoramic views and serene atmosphere make the climb a rewarding endeavor.
Yala National Park
Yala National Park is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with lush greenery and
abundant wildlife enhancing its serene atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in
the area’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage while also exploring the renowned Yala
National Park, famous for its diverse wildlife, including leopards and elephants, offering
an unforgettable safari experience.
Sithulpawwa
The Sithulpawwa Rock Temple holds significant historical value and is recognized as
one of the foremost sites of Buddhist scholarship dating back to the 2nd century. With a
history spanning over 2,200 years, it is an ancient place of worship located in the
Hambantota district. The modern name “Sithulpawwa” is derived from the ancient term
‘Cittalpabbata,’ meaning “The Hill of the Quiet Mind.”
In the 1st century AD, it is believed that as many as 12,000 Arahants, or monks who
have attained the highest level of enlightenment in Buddhism, resided here. Unlike the
grand monasteries of Anuradhapura and other towns, life at Sithulpawwa was
characterized by solitude and silence, and only those monks or nuns seeking peace and
isolation chose to live here.
Opposite the Great Sithulpawwa Rock, which rises 400 feet (122 meters) above the
landscape, lies a cave temple. This temple, part of an intricate cave complex, is 67 feet
high and 30 feet long, offering a glimpse into the spiritual heritage of the site.
Sella-kataragama
Sella Kataragama is located approximately 7 km from the bungalow. According to
historical tales, the city is the setting for the love story between Skanda Kumar (God
Kataragama) and Valliamma. Valliamma’s cave, a small tunnel, is found here. The site
also features, the ancient Sella Kataragama Gange Devalaya, a shrine dedicated to
God Skanda’s elder brother Ganesh, the Hindu deity Ganapathy, is situated just 3 km
away. which attracts numerous pilgrims. In addition, there are several temples, including
Siva Kovil, Kataragama Kovil, Valliamma Kovil, Lakshmi Kovil, and Saman Devalaya
Kirinda
Kirinda is a charming village located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, known for its
picturesque beach and a Buddhist vihara situated atop a large, round rock. The area is
also in proximity to the Great and Little Basses Reefs, renowned for offering some of
the most spectacular scuba diving experiences in the country.
One of Kirinda’s most famous attractions is the statue of Queen Viharamadevi, placed
at the site where she is believed to have landed after being set adrift at sea from
Kelaniya. The rock temple nearby is widely considered to be the historical location of
her arrival.
