Sacred Temples & Monasteries

This collection features the multi-religious pilgrimage hub of Kataragama and surrounding ancient forest monasteries. It includes the 2nd-century BC Sithulpawwa rock temple, the Kiri Vehera stupa, and the Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya, where Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic traditions converge. These sites range from the massive ruins of Neilagiri Dagaba to active meditation centers like Kudumbigala Aranya, showcasing the deep spiritual history and architectural heritage of Sri Lanka's southeastern region.

Sithulpawwa Raja Maha Viharaya

2nd-century BC rock temple located within Yala National Park. Historically served as a monastery for thousands of Buddhist monks and features ancient cave paintings and stupas.

Kataragama Kiri Vehera

Ancient stupa dating to the 6th century BC, believed to have been built by King Mahasena. It is one of the sixteen most sacred Buddhist sites (Solosmasthana) in Sri Lanka.

Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya

A major multi-religious shrine dedicated to the deity Kataragama deviyo. It is the focal point of the annual Esala Perahera festival and attracts pilgrims from various faiths.

Magul Maha Viharaya

2nd-century BC temple complex featuring a unique moonstone and a historic platform where the marriage of King Kavantissa and Princess Viharamahadevi is said to have occurred.

Kudumbigala Aranya Senasanaya

Ancient forest hermitage established in 246 BC. The site contains over 200 rock caves once used by meditative monks and offers panoramic views of the coastline.

Khizar Thakkiya

Islamic shrine and mosque located within the Kataragama sacred precinct, dedicated to the mystic figure Al-Khidr.

Kataragama Mahadevale

The primary shrine dedicated to God Skanda within the Kataragama complex, where daily rituals and offerings are performed.

Veherakema Buddhist Ruins

Archaeological site featuring the remains of an ancient stupa and stone pillars scattered across a rocky outcrop.

Neilagiri Dagaba

The largest ancient stupa in the Eastern Province, located within the Lahugala-Kitulana National Park and dating back to the 2nd century BC.

Visnu kovil

Shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, situated within the main Kataragama temple complex, reflecting the syncretic nature of the site.

Teyvani Amma Kovil

Hindu temple dedicated to Deivayanai, the divine consort of Lord Murugan, managed by the Shankara Mutt.

Arunachalam Pillai Ganesha devale

Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha, located at the entrance to the main Kataragama temple area.

Mahamevna Buddhist Monastery

A modern meditation monastery belonging to the Mahamevnawa order, providing a quiet space for Buddhist practice and teaching.

Ashta Phala Ruhu Bodhi

Sacred Bo tree believed to be one of the eight saplings (Ashta Phala) of the original Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi planted in the 3rd century BC.

Palani kovil

Small Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan, following the traditions of the Palani temple in South India.