Kudumbigala Monastery
A hermitage on a rock in the southeast wilds near Kumana, with caves used by monks for over two thousand years.
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Kudumbigala is a forest hermitage in the wild country between Arugam Bay and Kumana, founded in the second century BC, with over two hundred cave shelters cut into the rocks across the site and a stupa on the summit reached by a climb up bare rock. Monks live here still. The view from the top runs over unbroken forest to the lagoons and the sea, with no settlement in sight, and elephants move through the surrounding jungle.
What you actually see
- The summit stupa - a small dagoba on the bare rock top with forest all round.
- The cave shelters - over two hundred rock-cut cells across the site.
- The forest view - unbroken jungle running to the lagoons and the sea.
- The living hermitage - monks still resident in the forest.
When to go
April to September is the drier season on this coast. Mornings are coolest for the climb. The road in can be difficult after rain.
Honest expectations
The final climb is up bare rock with a rope in places and is exposed. Elephants use the area and walking the approach road is unwise. Facilities are none.
Nearby
Arugam Bay is north, and Kumana is south.
What to pack for Kudumbigala Monastery
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
