Kataragama

Introducing Kataragama

Fifteen kilometres northeast of Tissa (past lots of woodcarving stands) is Kataragama. Along with Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada), this is the most important religious pilgrimage site in Sri Lanka. It is a holy place for Buddhists, Muslims and Hindus, and the sprawling religious complex across the Menik Ganga contains buildings of all three religions. It is difficult to sort fact from legend at Kataragama. Many believe that King Dutugemunu built a shrine to the Kataragama Deviyo (the resident god) here in the 2nd century BC, and the Buddhist Kirivehera dagoba dates back to the 1st century BC, but the site has been significant for longer.

In July and August, the predominantly Hindu Kataragama festival draws thousands of devotees, who make the pilgrimage over a two-week period.

Apart from festival time, the town is busiest at weekends and on poya days. At these times it may be difficult to find accommodation, and the place will be buzzing. At other times it can feel like a ghost town. If you’re staying in Tissamaharama you may just want to visit on a day trip.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009