Piyangala Forest Hermitage
About This Place
Piyangala Forest Hermitage
Ancient monastic site built in the 1st century BC by Queen Rajitha, wife of King Dutugamunu. Located atop a forested peak, the site features a 100-ft granite meditation path, 20+ drip-ledged caves with inscriptions, moonstones, and forest engravings. Despite war and forest fires, the hermitage still supports meditation today.
Difficulty
🧭 moderate
Best Time
📅 June to September (dry season) is ideal for hiking and safe forest access
Safety Rating
Accessibility & Visitor Info
Accessible via local paths near Ampara; forested terrain; basic foot access; signage limited; guide recommended
📖 Legends & Stories
Utharaguthathera Lena (main cave) believed to have been used by Arahant Uttara Gupta Thera. Inscriptions record donations by ancient queens and presence of Vedda tribes after monastery decline.
Location
📍 Find It Here
7.066000, 81.720000
Community
Visitor Comments (0)
No comments yet
Be the first to share your experience!