Habuthala Viharaya (Tharulengala Monastery)
About This Place
Habuthala Viharaya (Tharulengala Monastery)
Ancient forest monastery built before 2nd century BC by King Kawantissa, located near Karandahela reservoir on a 633-ft hill. Home to some of the largest drip-ledged caves in Sri Lanka, including one 512 ft long. Includes damaged reclining Buddha statue, Vedda cave art, moonstones, ruined stupas, and water ponds once used by monks. Now largely overgrown and inhabited by leopards and bears.
Difficulty
🧭 moderate
Best Time
📅 December to April
Safety Rating
Accessibility & Visitor Info
Remote forest path; wildlife presence (leopards/bears); caves are unprotected and overgrown
📖 Legends & Stories
Vedda drawings reveal a prehistoric past; believed to be one of the earliest forest monasteries in Eastern Sri Lanka.
Location
📍 Find It Here
7.175000, 81.605000
Community
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