Nagapabbatha Monastery
About This Place
Nagapabbatha Monastery
Ancient monastic site spread across ~60 acres deep within Kudumbigala Wildlife Sanctuary. Home to a partially destroyed 36-foot reclining Buddha statue in a drip-ledged cave, as well as ruins of stupas, alms halls, and worship chambers. Features a 200-ft long cave inscribed with historical donor records.
Difficulty
🧭 moderate
Best Time
📅 Dry season (May to September) best for trekking and clearer jungle paths
Safety Rating
Accessibility & Visitor Info
No motorable road; access only by foot through Kudumbigala Wildlife Sanctuary. Local guides essential due to remote and wild terrain
📖 Legends & Stories
Founded during King Gotabhaya’s reign (249–262 A.D.). One of the caves, "Nagapawathasenasana," was built by a donor named Mithra. Stupas were believed to act as beacons for seafarers approaching Sri Lanka’s southeastern shores in the 4th century.
Location
📍 Find It Here
6.655000, 81.746000
Community
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