Kudumbigala Monastery

Dogs Unknown

Features Cave · Historical Significance · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

There is still an active monastic community here, so please keep it quiet, meditative and clean and be respectful of the customs and rules, including taking off shoes when entering the holy places.

This is a short, but terrific walk to explore the ancient Kudumbigala Monastary, built in the third century BC. The terrain is varied, and there are plenty of ancient structures of historical and religious significance to explore. There is a fantastic view from the ancient stupa on top of the highest mountain, via the Overlook Trail to the north. Ancient stairs carved directly into the steep rock lead to the peak. Many go for the sunset view.

The area is rocky, sandy, and forested and lies close to Kumana National Park and some great natural beaches at Okanda. Birds (including an abundance of peacocks), deer, elephants, water buffalo, leopards, crocodiles, are some animals in abundance in the area. Monkeys are everywhere and will try to take what they can from you.