Sacred Sites & Temples

This collection features the diverse spiritual heritage of the Sabaragamuwa region, spanning ancient cave temples and remote forest monasteries. Highlights include the historic Sankhapala Rajamaha Viharaya, dating back to the 2nd century BC, and the world-renowned Sri Pada Temple atop Adam's Peak, a multi-faith pilgrimage site. Visitors can explore the meditative atmosphere of Nissarana Vanaya or the intricate architecture of local Hindu Devasthanams, reflecting the area's rich Buddhist traditions and multi-religious cultural landscape.

Sankhapala Rajamaha Viharaya

An ancient cave temple dating to the 2nd century BC, historically linked to Pussadeva, a warrior of King Dutugemunu. It features several rock-cut caves with Brahmi inscriptions and traditional Kandyan-era murals.

Jayabodi viharaya

A local Buddhist temple serving the community with traditional shrine rooms and a stupa.

Kathlana Sri Lenagiri temple

A Buddhist cave temple situated in a scenic forest setting, featuring traditional rock-hewn architecture.

Abhayathilakarathnaramaya

Abhayathilakarathnaramaya is an ancient Buddhist temple in Kuruwita, Sri Lanka.

Nissaraṇa Forest Monastery

A prominent meditation monastery established in 1967. It is a dedicated center for Vipassana meditation within the Theravada Buddhist tradition, situated within a quiet forest environment.

Gilanhāla (Bhaddekavihārī Hermitages)

A secluded forest hermitage providing a dedicated space for Buddhist monks to practice meditation and solitary living.

Sri Pada Temple (Adam's Peak Temple)

Situated at the summit of Adam's Peak, this sacred site houses a footprint-shaped rock formation venerated by Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. It is a primary destination for seasonal night-time pilgrimages.

Kataragama Devalaya

A shrine dedicated to the deity Kataragama Deviyo, serving as a center for local rituals and offerings.

Arul Migu Sri Muththumariyamman Devasthanam

A vibrant Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, featuring traditional Dravidian-style architectural elements and colorful sculptures.

Kawantissa Raja Maha Viharaya

An ancient Buddhist temple historically attributed to King Kavantissa, featuring a stupa and traditional shrine rooms.