Top 5 Things to do Near Kataragama – the sacred town in Sri Lanka

The Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya is one of the most prominent sites of worship in the country. Every year countless numbers of devotees visit this iconic old temple. The temple is dedicated to the Buddhist deity Kataragama deviyo as well as to the Hindu War God Murugan. Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims as well as the Vedda community of the island visit this temple throughout the year. The daily pooja takes place every day at 4:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m.

The Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya is one of the most prominent sites of worship in the country. Every year countless numbers of devotees visit this iconic old temple. The temple is dedicated to the Buddhist deity Kataragama deviyo as well as to the Hindu War God Murugan. Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims as well as the Vedda community of the island visit this temple throughout the year. The daily pooja takes place every day at 4:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m.

There are many beautiful stupas and temples located in Sri Lanka which were built by ancient kings. In the town of Kataragama too one such amazing stupa is found. The iconic Kirivehera is one of the most charming attractions in the region. It is believed to have been built by King Mahasen who ruled in the island between 276 and 303 AD. You can easily visit this beautiful site of worship when you stay at any one of the many Tissamaharama hotels surrounding the area. There are plenty of great places that you can consider such as Kithala Resort.

Tissamaharama is indeed a charming town that has a rich array of religious and historic monuments. Your tour in the city will be truly quite colourful as the many remarkable attractions here are quite appealing. The town is a popular one among Buddhists, Hindus as well as Muslims. The large numbers of Muslims are attracted to the town because of the famous Ul-Khizr Mosque. It is located in the sacred premises of the Kataragama Temple. It is a picturesque site to behold indeed! Be sure to bring your camera along when you visit this site of worship. The mosque is adorned in coloured tiles that have intricate patterns and designs. There are many beautiful wooden lintels here as well. In the mosque, tombs of two holy Muslim men can also be found.

The Ramninithenna Tele-Cinema Village which is located between Kataragama and Tissamaharama is a famous attraction in the region. It is quite often included in travel itineraries in the region. The place is in need of serious repair. But there is a charm there that is quite unique to the destination for sure. You will be expected to pay an entry fee as well.
Hope the tips above will help you to enjoy a wonderful holiday experience in this culturally diverse region! Make sure you wear comfortable clothes that are made from breathable fabric like cotton and linen. When visiting sites of worship you will have to be clad in decent clothes.