Discovering Sigiriya: The Ultimate Guide to Sri Lanka’s Eighth Wonder

 

Discovering Sigiriya: The Ultimate Guide to Sri Lanka’s Eighth Wonder

If you are looking for a breathtaking travel destination that seamlessly blends history, mystery, and architectural brilliance, look no further than Sigiriya. Nestled within the Cultural Triangle in the Matale district of Sri Lanka's Central Province, this ancient rock fortress is celebrated globally and often referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World. 

Rising nearly 200 meters above the surrounding plains, this massive column of rock was transformed into a secure fortress and a grand palace complex by King Kashyapa during the 5th century. Today, it stands proud as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serving as a testament to the extraordinary engineering and artistic skills of ancient Sri Lanka. 

How to Get to Sigiriya

From Dambulla:

Sigiriya is located about 20 km away from Dambulla town and roughly 15 km from Habarana. 

From Colombo (By Car):

If you are driving from Colombo, take the Colombo - Kurunegala (A6) highway towards Dambulla. Once you pass Dambulla, drive a few kilometers further and turn right at the Inamaluwa junction onto Sigiriya Road. Continue for about 10 km to reach the destination. The total distance from Colombo is around 160 km. 

From Kandy:

The journey from Kandy is approximately 90 km. Drive along the Kandy - Matale road to Dambulla, and then take the turn from the Inamaluwa junction. 

By Public Bus:

Travelers opting for public transport can head to Dambulla town first. Regular buses run from Dambulla to Sigiriya every 30 minutes between 6:30 AM and 6:00 PM. 

By Train:

You can board a train from Colombo and get off at either the Habarana or Habarana/Kekirawa railway stations. From there, you can easily catch a local bus or hire a three-wheeler (tuk-tuk) to complete your journey.

Best Time to Visit

Due to the intense tropical daytime heat, the most comfortable hours to climb and explore Sigiriya are early in the morning from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM or late afternoon after 3:00 PM. 

Top Highlights to See in Sigiriya

The Lion’s Paw (Singha Pada):

The final ascent to the summit begins at the northern end of the rock, where a gateway was carved in the shape of a monumental lion. Today, only two massive lion paws framing the staircase remain. Historical evidence suggests that a complete brick-and-plaster lion figure once guarded the entrance. 

The Sigiriya Frescoes:

These world-renowned wall paintings showcase the exquisite artistic skills of ancient times. Painted using natural pigments, these frescoes depict graceful women known as the "Sigiriya Maidens.". According to the Mahavamsa, they represent the queens and princesses of King Kashyapa’s royal court. 

The Mirror Wall and Graffiti:

Coated with a highly polished glaze, the Mirror Wall was originally so reflective that the king could see his reflection while walking by. Over centuries (from the 6th to the 14th century), visitors wrote poems and impressions on this wall, which are now famous as the "Sigiriya Graffiti.". 

The Advanced Water Gardens:

The hydraulic engineering displayed here still amazes modern experts. During the rainy season, the ancient fountains function flawlessly purely based on gravity and water pressure, without any modern machinery. Furthermore, a massive swimming pool carved entirely out of solid granite sits atop the 600-foot summit, leaving experts wondering how water was brought up to such heights without modern tools. 

Masterful Urban Planning:

Sigiriya is far more than just a palace on a rock; it is a meticulously planned ancient city. Using the rock as the central point, the western zone features royal pleasure gardens, intricate moats, and pavilions, while the eastern side houses the general residential areas. The city’s defensive layout—comprising deep, crocodile-infested moats and massive earthen walls—is truly unparalleled. There was even a defensive system where large boulders were balanced at the cliff edges, ready to be rolled down on potential invaders. 

Bonus Travel Tip:

While visiting Sigiriya, you can also easily explore the nearby Pidurangala Rock for a panoramic sunrise view and enjoy the scenic Sigiriya Wewa (tank). Additionally, the historic Dambulla Cave Temple is just a short 30-minute drive away. 

Where to Stay in Sigiriya

Luxury Resorts:

Heritance Kandalama:

Overlooking the tranquil Kandalama tank, this iconic luxury hotel is a masterpiece designed by the world-famous architect Geoffrey Bawa. 

Aliya Resort & Spa:

Centered around an elegant elephant theme, this resort offers spectacular, uninterrupted views of both Sigiriya and Pidurangala rocks. 

Water Garden Sigiriya:

An ultra-luxury property inspired by the symmetrical layout of Sigiriya’s ancient water gardens. 

Mid-Range Accommodations:

Hotel Sigiriya:

One of the oldest and most popular hotels in the area, situated exceptionally close to the rock fortress. 

Sigiriya Village:

A charming, traditional-style property that lets you experience the rustic beauty of a Sri Lankan village setting. \

"Madu River" in Balapitiya: An Unspoiled Mangrove Paradise

 

"Madu River"  in Balapitiya: An Unspoiled Mangrove Paradise

This beautiful destination is located in Balapitiya, within the Galle District of the Southern Province. Highly popular among both local and international tourists, it boasts an incredibly rich biodiversity. As Sri Lanka's second-largest wetland, it was internationally recognized and declared a Ramsar Wetland in 2003.

Being one of the few remaining pristine mangrove ecosystems in Sri Lanka, it is home to several unique mangrove species, rare fish varieties, reptiles, and a vibrant array of birds, including the Common Kingfisher, egrets, and White-bellied Sea Eagles. Folklore suggests that its ancient name, "Maha Du" (meaning Large Island), eventually evolved into "Madu."

Although history records 64 large and small islands scattered across the Madu River, only about 20 to 25 remain visible today. Some of these islands are inhabited by local communities, while others are dedicated to agricultural cultivation.

A boat safari is an absolute must-do for anyone visiting the Madu River. Numerous services like the Madu Ganga Boat Safari and Madu River Safari are readily available near the Balapitiya Bridge for any traveler.

How to Get to Madu River

By Public Transport: If you are traveling from Colombo by public bus, take the Colombo - Galle main road and get down at Balapitiya.

By Private Vehicle: If you are taking the Southern Expressway from Colombo, exit from either the Welipenna interchange or the Kurundugahahetekma interchange, and drive towards Balapitiya.

Whichever mode of transport you choose, once you reach the Balapitiya Bridge, you can easily secure a boat safari service.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time for a safari is either in the morning from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM or in the afternoon from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. These hours allow you to escape the intense midday heat and offer the best opportunities to observe wildlife and birds in their natural habitat.

If you opt for an evening boat safari, you will also be treated to a breathtaking sunset view over the river.

Top Things to See and Do on a Boat Safari

Natural Mangrove Caves (Mangrove Tunnels)

The boat safari takes you directly through natural tunnels formed by overarching mangrove trees along the riverbanks. Navigating through these green canopy tunnels is an enchanting experience for every traveler.

Fish Massage (Fish Spa)

You can experience a natural spa by dipping your feet into specialized floating tanks placed right in the middle of the Madu River, where tiny fish gently massage your feet. This is one of the most popular and enjoyed activities among visitors.

Kothduwa Temple (Kothduwa Raja Maha Viharaya)

This is a remarkably serene and beautiful Buddhist temple situated on one of the river's islands. Historical lore suggests that the sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha was once safely hidden and protected here during turbulent ancient times.

Cinnamon Island

This island is famous for its traditional, generations-old cinnamon cultivation. Visitors can witness live demonstrations of how authentic cinnamon oil is extracted from the bark and how cinnamon sticks are meticulously prepared. You also have the opportunity to purchase fresh, high-quality cinnamon products directly from the locals.

Traditional Fishing via "Ja-Kotu"

During the daytime, you will notice unique bamboo fences constructed across the river, known as "Ja-Kotu." At night, fishermen light traditional pressure lamps or small lanterns inside these structures to trap fish and prawns drawn to the light. Although this is an ancient, traditional fishing technique, it is fascinating to see local fishermen still actively practicing it today.

⚠️ A Special Note to Travelers:

The Madu River is a highly sensitive ecological zone. As responsible travelers, please ensure that you do not discard plastic, polythene, or any other waste into this beautiful environment.

Where to Stay: Top Hotels in Balapitiya

Heritance Ahungalla:

Facing a pristine stretch of beach, this luxury 5-star hotel was designed by the world-renowned Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa. It is celebrated for introducing the iconic "Infinity Pool" concept to the Sri Lankan hospitality industry.

Kadolana Eco Village:

Nestled inside a lush mangrove forest right by the banks of the Madu River, this eco-friendly, luxury 5-star resort is perfect for those looking to escape the concrete jungle and experience true tranquility.

Roo Water Villas:

A charming and peaceful waterfront retreat built primarily out of wood. Positioned right on the river’s edge, it offers an exceptional, eco-friendly luxury experience for nature-loving tourists.

Thotagamu Rathpath Rajamaha Viharaya,The Abode of Ven. Sri Rahula Thero

 

The Historic Thotagamu Rathpath Rajamaha Viharaya: The Abode of Ven. Sri Rahula Thero

Nestled near the coastal town of Hikkaduwa in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, the ancient temple of Thotagamu Rathpath Rajamaha Viharaya is located in the scenic village of Telwatta. This sacred site is widely renowned as the historic residence of Ven. Thotagamuwe Sri Rahula Thero, a legendary monk, exceptional poet, and a master scholar celebrated as Shad Bhasha Parameshwara (Supreme Master of Six Languages). The golden era of this temple dates back to the 15th century, during the prosperous reign of King Parakramabahu VI of the Kotte Kingdom. 

Historically, this temple served as the foundation for the Thotagamuwe Vijayaba Pirivena, a premier educational hub of ancient Sri Lanka. It was a distinguished seat of learning where numerous local and foreign languages were taught. It is within the inspiring quietude of this very temple that timeless masterpieces of Sinhalese literature, such as the Salalihini Sandeshaya, Paravi Sandeshaya, and Kavyashekaraya, were penned. 

Although the temple suffered severe destruction during the period of Portuguese rule, it was beautifully restored during the Kandyan era under the patronage of King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha. 

Artistic and Sacred Marvels of the Temple

Visiting the temple today offers a glimpse into the artistic grandeur of the Kandyan kingdom, showcased through its preservation of ancient murals. The shrine room houses a majestic reclining Buddha statue, beautifully surrounded by traditional sculptures and frescoes. Visitors can also view historic ola-leaf manuscripts, sacred relic caskets, and rare personal artifacts meticulously used and preserved from the era of Ven. Sri Rahula Thero. 

Before composing the Kavyashekaraya, Ven. Sri Rahula Thero is said to have sought divine blessings at the ancient Natha Devalaya located within the premises. Folklore attributes his profound wisdom and unparalleled intellect to the divine grace of Lord Natha and the miraculous virtues of the Saraswathi Thailaya (a sacred medicinal oil). Because of this enduring belief, the temple remains a popular sanctuary where parents continuously bring their school-aged children to invoke blessings for their education. 

A unique feature of this temple is the seamless co-existence of Buddhist iconography and Hindu deities, highlighted by a prominent statue of Lord Natha. The intricate craftsmanship of the local artisans is beautifully captured in the delicate drapery of the statues, the Siraspatha (flame-like halo over the Buddha's head), and the expressive detail in their eyes. 

At the entrance of the shrine room, a magnificent Makara Thorana (Dragon Arch) and finely carved stone guard-stones (Muragal) stand as a testament to the proud heritage of Sri Lankan stone carving. Scattered across the temple courtyard, a few ancient stone pillars still remain, serving as silent witnesses to the structure that survived Portuguese destruction. Today, this precious historical site is protected and preserved by the Department of Archaeology. 

Travel Guide: How to Get There

• From Colombo:

If you are traveling along the Colombo - Galle Main Road, turn at the Telwatta Junction. The temple is located just about 100 meters down the road. 

• From Seenigama:

If you are visiting the famous Seenigama Devalaya, make sure to add this temple to your itinerary. It is located just 2 km north (towards Colombo) from Seenigama. 

Nearby Attractions to Explore

To maximize your day trip, you can easily explore these fascinating sites located just minutes away from the temple: 

• Honganji Viharaya (1 km away):

Located along the main Colombo-Galle road, this temple was built with the generous support of Japanese Buddhists following the devastating 2004 Tsunami to strengthen Sri Lanka-Japan friendship. It features a towering standing Buddha statue modeled after the historic Bamiyan Buddha statues. 

• Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mines (1.5 km away):

Meetiyagoda is world-famous as one of the very few places on earth where the rare, translucent blue moonstones are mined naturally. 

• Peraliya Tsunami Memorial & Photo Museum (500m away):

Located at the Telwatta junction, this poignant monument and museum honors the thousands of lives lost during the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami through a collection of moving photographs and memories. 

• Food Tip:

While exploring Peraliya, don't forget to stop by the Peraliya Beach Restaurant. It is a wonderful spot to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the beautiful, relaxing views of the blue ocean. 

 

Kirigalpoththa: The Realm of the Leopards

 

Kirigalpoththa:    The Realm of the Leopards

Kirigalpoththa is renowned among travelers and hikers as the second-highest mountain in Sri Lanka. Standing at an elevation of approximately 2,388 meters above sea level, it offers a thrilling and challenging destination for adventure seekers. Since Pidurutalagala, the country’s highest peak, is restricted to the general public, Kirigalpoththa holds the crown as the highest mountain summit that ordinary travelers can actually conquer. 

How to Get to Kirigalpoththa

This stunning peak is nestled within the Horton Plains National Park in the Nuwara Eliya district. The trek to Kirigalpoththa begins near the Horton Plains National Park office and takes nearly 7 hours to complete, covering a total distance of about 14 km. 

While the journey starts smoothly across flat terrain, it gradually transforms into a demanding expedition. You will navigate through soggy marshlands, dense scrub forests, and scramble up massive, slippery rock boulders before finally reaching the majestic summit. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of both Horton Plains and Sri Pada (Adam's Peak). 

Highlights Along the Trail

·         Horton Plains National Park:

Perched at an altitude of around 2,100 meters, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an ecosystem rich in biodiversity. Although the trail to Kirigalpoththa is rigorous, the surrounding scenery is absolutely mesmerizing. Along the way, you can spot vibrant Rhododendrons (Maha Rath Mal) and dwarf bamboo species endemic to Horton Plains, alongside various exotic flowers, Sambar deer, and other native wildlife. 

·         World’s End:

Located where the borders of Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, and Ratnapura districts converge, this iconic viewpoint inside the park features a dual drop known as Greater World’s End and Lesser World’s End. Because there are no safety railings along these sheer drop-offs, visitors must exercise extreme caution, especially when taking photographs or traveling with young children. 

·         Greater World’s End:

This spot reveals a staggering vertical precipice that plunges down nearly 4,000 feet. On a clear day, it offers spectacular, unobstructed views stretching across the Balangoda area, lush tea estates, and the Samanala wewa Reservoir.

·         Lesser World’s End:

Situated just 200 meters away from its larger counterpart, this viewpoint features a dramatic drop of about 1,000 feet. 

·         Baker’s Falls:

A highly famous and picturesque waterfall encountered on the loop trail. It was discovered and named after Sir Samuel Baker, the prominent British explorer credited with the discovery of the Nuwara Eliya region. Formed by a main tributary of the Belihul Oya, the falls plunge down roughly 66 feet. The surrounding area is beautifully blanketed with local flora, and the Department of Wildlife Conservation has constructed a secure viewing platform perfect for photography. Due to its turbulent waters and high-risk conditions, swimming here is strictly prohibited. 

Essential Travel Tips for Hikers

Permits:

If you intend to hike Kirigalpoththa, you must obtain a special permit/clearance at the main entrance gate of Horton Plains National Park. 

Timing:

 It is highly recommended to start your trek between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM. Heavy mist rolls in rapidly after 10:00 AM, and sudden rain can make it incredibly difficult to navigate the trail. 

Gear:

Wear weather-resistant clothing that protects against cold temperatures and sudden downpours. Non-slip hiking shoes with excellent grip are absolutely mandatory for the wet terrain. 

Eco-Rules:

Horton Plains is a strict plastic-free zone; bringing single-use polythene or plastics into the park is entirely forbidden. 

Where to Stay

For those visiting Horton Plains, premium star-class accommodations can be found by heading towards Ambewela or the main town of Nuwara Eliya, which is roughly a one-hour drive from the park. 

The Golden Ridge Hotel:

A luxury hotel situated in an extraordinarily beautiful environment, fully equipped with a swimming pool, bar, and fine dining options. 

Jetwing St. Andrews:

A grand, historic property designed in traditional British colonial architecture, featuring impeccably manicured old-world gardens. 

Araliya Green City:

A sleek, modern luxury hotel centrally located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya town. 

W15 Lake Gregory:

A highly rated boutique hotel located right on the banks of Lake Gregory, exceptional for its premium customer service. 

 

Hunnasgiriya: A Misty Mountain Paradise

Hunnasgiriya:  A Misty Mountain Paradise

Location and Overview

The Destination: If you love crisp mountain air and the tranquility of nature, this beautiful hillside getaway in Sri Lanka's Kandy District is the perfect escape. 

Elevation & Distance: Situated roughly 42km away from Kandy along the Kandy-Mahiyanganaya Main Road, Hunnasgiriya sits at an impressive altitude of nearly 3,000 feet above sea level, showcasing the very best of the central highlands. 

Travel Guide: How to Get There

By Private Vehicle:

Drive to Kandy city, and then follow the road through Digana and Teldeniya for about 42km to reach Hunnasgiriya. The drive takes approximately one hour from Kandy. 

By Public Transport:

You can board any public bus traveling from Kandy toward either Mahiyanganaya or Badulla. 

Local Commuting:

Once you arrive, hiring a local three-wheeler (tuk-tuk) is the most practical and efficient way to explore the nearby waterfalls and peaks. 

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Peak Season:

The absolute best months to visit are from January to April. This period brings clear skies and minimal rain, allowing you to enjoy the panoramic views to the fullest. 

The Rainy Season:

Traveling here during the wet months can be challenging due to thick, blinding mist and a high concentration of leeches. 

Pro-Tip:

The weather in Hunnasgiriya can shift instantly, and unexpected showers are common. It is highly recommended to pack reliable rainproof clothing for your trek. 

Top Attractions & Things to Do

Hunnasgiriya Mountain Peak:

 Unlike many exhausting trails, this summit features a beautifully accessible path that lets you reach the top in a brief 30-minute walk. Standing 1,514 meters above sea level, the peak rewards you with sweeping views of the Victoria Reservoir and the majestic Dumbara (Knuckles) mountain range. 

Hunnas Falls:

Cascading down from a height of about 48 meters, this highly picturesque waterfall is located in the Elkaduwa region of Kandy, offering a stunning backdrop of swirling mist and lush greenery. 

Hathale Mini World’s End:

Tucked away amid the verdant slopes of the Upper Hathale tea estates, this exceptional observation deck offers a breathtaking, up-close view of the Knuckles mountains. 

Knuckles Forest Reserve:

Hunnasgiriya serves as a primary gateway into this pristine conservation forest. Renowned for harboring some of the purest natural water sources in Sri Lanka, the reserve protects a rich variety of endemic wildlife, rare plants, endemic butterflies, and scarce bird species like the Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon, Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot, and the Yellow-eared Bulbul. 

Meemure Village:

For a truly unforgettable adventure, you can travel from the Hunnasgiriya Junction, past Mini World’s End, and journey deep into Meemure—one of Sri Lanka's most iconic, beautifully isolated villages. 

The 18 Bends (Daha Ata Wanguwa):

Continuing about 20km past Hunnasgiriya along the Mahiyanganaya highway brings you to this legendary winding road, which treats travelers to spectacular vistas overlooking the Mahaweli Valley. 

Photography & Nature: Whether you are walking through the emerald-green tea gardens or exploring pine forests that stretch into the clouds, the rich biodiversity and unique flora (including wild orchids) make this a dream destination for photographers. 

Where to Stay: Accommodations

Hunnas Falls Hotel:

Positioned right next to the famous waterfall, this historic, ultra-luxury property features stunningly landscaped gardens and an incredible view of the cloud forests rising just above the estate. 

Hotel Shady Hills:

A popular luxury retreat situated along the road connecting Hunnasgiriya to Meemure, offering a scenic stay completely encircled by the Knuckles range. 

Wild Glamping Knuckles:

The ultimate choice for travelers seeking an upscale, luxury tented camping experience in the heart of nature. 

Abimansala Resort Hunnasgiriya:

A beautifully peaceful and budget-friendly lodging option tailored for travelers heading toward Meemure, providing restful comfort and views of the iconic Lakegala Mountain. 

 

Lankagama: The Hidden Paradise of Sinharaja

 

Lankagama:   The Hidden Paradise of Sinharaja

Location and Significance

The Village: This beautiful village is situated on the border of the world-heritage Sinharaja Rain Forest, within the Neluwa DivisionalSecretariat Division of the Galle District in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. 

Boundaries: 

Bordered by the Sinharaja Reserve to the north and the Dellawa Reserve to the south, Lankagama serves as a major gateway to the Sinharaja Forest. 

Biodiversity:

Due to its proximity to the Sinharaja Reserve, the area boasts high biodiversity. Visitors can observe several animal and plant species endemic to Sri Lanka, as well as highly rare species of butterflies, birds, and frogs. 

The Legend Behind the Name:

There is an interesting folklore among the villagers regarding how the village got its name. Even when the entire country fell under British rule, this area—surrounded by the dense jungle of Sinharaja—could not be discovered by the British. As a result, the village was named "Lankagama" (meaning the village of Lanka). 

How to Get There

Route from Colombo: If you are traveling by a private vehicle from Colombo, you can take the Southern Expressway, exit from the Welipenna or Pinnaduwa interchange, and reach Lankagama via Pelawatta and Neluwa. 

Road Conditions: This is the easiest route to reach Lankagama. Although the village was known as a remote and difficult area in the past, the roads have been well-constructed and developed in recent times.

Places to Visit in Lankagama

Lankagama is the ideal destination if you want to experience the coolness of a rainforest and the beauty of a series of waterfalls in the same area. The most attractive feature for visitors is the cluster of five waterfalls located within a very short distance of each other: 

Brahmana Ella:

This is the main and tallest waterfall in Lankagama. It can be seen right by the roadside as you enter the village. 

Duwili Ella:

One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Lankagama. It gets its name because the water sprays out in the form of a dust cloud ("Duwili"). (Note: There is another waterfall named "Kosmulla Duwili Ella" located in the Kosmulla village, about 6km along the road from Neluwa to Lankagama. Many tourists confuse these two distinct waterfalls as being the same ). 

Thattu Ella:

This waterfall is named "Thattu Ella" (Layered/Tiered Falls) because it cascades down in the shape of a flight of stairs. 

Uran Watunu Ella  

Gal Oruwa Ella:

A waterfall that cascades down in the shape of a boat ("Oruwa") between two narrow rock boulders. 

Other Attractions:

Gin Ganga: The Gin Ganga River, which originates from the Sinharaja Reserve, flows gracefully through this beautiful village. 

Sangili Palama (Suspension Bridge):

Also known as the hanging bridge, this is built across the Gin Ganga. It is an excellent spot for taking beautiful photographs. Walking across the bridge as it gently sways from side to side is a highly enjoyable experience for tourists. 

Important Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit:

The ideal period to visit Lankagama is from January to March, when rainfall is relatively low. The dry season is the safest time to bathe in these waterfalls. 

Monsoon Warning:

From May to September, heavy rains brought by the Southwest Monsoon cause the water levels in the rivers and waterfalls to rise significantly. Bathing during this period can be dangerous, and the increased leech population during the rainy season can also disrupt your travel plans. 

Leeches and Environment:

Since Lankagama is a rainforest area, leeches are abundant, so visitors need to be mindful of them. Furthermore, it is important to enjoy the beauty of this environment while ensuring its protection. 

Local Delicacies:

Lankagama is highly famous for authentic Kithul jaggery and Kithul treacle. Visitors have the opportunity to visit a local village home, enjoy a piece of warm, freshly made jaggery, and taste a cup of plain black tea (Kahata). You can also purchase genuine Sinharaja Kithul treacle.

Accommodation in Lankagama

Most of the accommodations here are designed to be eco-friendly. It is highly recommended to book your stay in advance. Notable places include: 

Sinharaja Eco Lodge:

 Located near the Sinharaja Neluwa entrance, this is a beautiful place designed without harming the natural environment, allowing guests to fully enjoy the beauty of the Sinharaja forest and the Gin Ganga. 

Mist of Sinharaja:

A unique cottage-style accommodation built using containers and wood, located on the road leading from Neluwa to Lankagama. 

360 Rainforest:

A luxury accommodation option that is highly popular even among foreign tourists.

Seenigama: The Blessed Abode of Lord Devol

 

Seenigama:   The Blessed Abode of Lord Devol

Seenigama is a place steeped in miracles, located very close to the coastal town of Hikkaduwa in the Galle District of Sri Lanka. What makes this sacred site truly unique is that, apart from the shrine on the mainland, the main temple is situated just offshore on a small island in the middle of the ocean. Devotees must take a boat service to reach it. Dedicated to Lord Devol, this temple holds a profound place of faith among the people of the southern coast, especially the fishing community. 

Seenigama is located about 2 km away from the Hikkaduwa beach enclave in southern Sri Lanka. Right next to the shrine, you can witness a remarkably serene and beautiful stretch of beach. 

What Makes It Special?

If you are traveling along the main Colombo-Galle road, you can easily spot this sacred ground. In fact, anyone journeying down this road rarely forgets to drop a coin into the till box here to invoke blessings for a safe journey. 

The Seenigama temple is famous not just for seeking divine blessings, but as a sanctuary where people seek justice and retribution against unfairness and wrongdoing. Devotees who have faced injustice visit this shrine to pray for divine retribution against those who wronged them. To do this, they take a boat to the island temple and perform traditional rituals, such as grinding chili on a designated ritual stone or smashing coconuts. 

The miraculous power of this site was clearly demonstrated during the devastating 2004 Tsunami. While the entire surrounding area suffered severe damage, the island temple building remained completely untouched by the waves. Notably, the site of the tragic tsunami train disaster is located just 1 km away from this shrine. 

How Seenigama Got Its Name

According to one legend, when Lord Devol stepped ashore from the ocean, the grains of sand on the beach miraculously turned into sugar (Seeni in Sinhala), leading the area to be called Seenigama. 

Another historical perspective suggests that Chinese merchants frequently gathered here in ancient times, earning it the name Chinagama (Chinese village), which eventually evolved into Seenigama. 

How to Get to Seenigama

By Private Vehicle: If you are driving, exit the Southern Expressway at the Baddegama Interchange, head towards Hikkaduwa, and then travel about 2 km from Hikkaduwa back towards Colombo. It takes about 45 minutes to reach Seenigama from the Baddegama exit. 

Via the A2 Highway (Easiest Route): The most straightforward way is to simply take the main Colombo-Galle (A2) road. The entire journey from Colombo takes about 2 hours, and since the shrine is right on the roadside, this is the easiest method. 

By Public Bus: If you choose public transport, a bus ride from Colombo takes nearly 3 hours, and you can get off right in front of the temple grounds. 

By Train: If traveling by rail, disembark at the Hikkaduwa Railway Station. From there, you can easily catch a local bus or take a three-wheeler (tuk-tuk) to the site. 

Nearby Attractions to Explore

Telwatta Totagamuwa Ratpat Rajamaha Viharaya:

This is an ancient, sacred monastery where the revered scholar monk Totagamuwe Sri Rahula Thero once resided. Located just 2 km from the Seenigama temple, this site was known as the Vijayaba Pirivena in antiquity and served as the focal setting for classical Sinhala literature like the Selalihini and Parevi Sandesha poems. 

Peraliya Honganji Viharaya:

Built with aid from the Japanese government, this temple features an impressive replica of the Bamiyan Buddha statue. Anyone traveling on the Colombo-Galle main road can easily see it from the roadside. 

The Tsunami Monument:

Erected in Peraliya along the Colombo-Galle road, this monument stands in solemn memory of the thousands of lives lost to the ocean waves and the tragic train accident during the 2004 Tsunami. 

Tsunami Museums:

You can find several privately maintained tsunami museums in the Peraliya area. These spaces house powerful and tragic photographic records documenting the sheer scale of the disaster. 

Hikkaduwa Beach: Located a mere 2 km away from the Seenigama temple, this is a stunning and vibrant beach stretch that is globally renowned among international tourists.

Where to Stay

Since Seenigama is situated right next to the major tourist hub of Hikkaduwa, finding accommodation that perfectly matches your budget is incredibly easy—ranging from luxury star-class hotels to highly affordable guest houses. 

Luxury & Star-Class Hotels:

·         Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon 

·         Riff Hikkaduwa 

·         Citrus Hikkaduwa 

Mid-Range Hotels:

·         Coral Sands Hotel 

·         Avenra Beach Hikkaduwa