Sithulpawwa
A sacred rock monastery from the 2nd century BC, where ancient art meets breathtaking panoramic views over Yala's wilderness.
About Sithulpawwa
Sithulpawwa — meaning "hill of quiet mind" — is one of Sri Lanka's most ancient and revered Buddhist monasteries. Built in the 2nd century BC during the reign of King Kavantissa, it once housed up to 12,000 monks and is regarded as a forest hermitage of great spiritual importance.
Perched on granite outcrops rising from the Yala landscape, the monastery contains a complex of cave temples, stupas, and meditation caves adorned with ancient paintings and inscriptions that date back over two millennia.
Historical Significance
Dating to the 2nd century BC, Sithulpawwa thrived as a center of Buddhism under royal patronage and is mentioned in the ancient Mahavamsa chronicle.
Spiritual Character
Even today, monks reside here in meditation. The remote, peaceful setting amid jungle and granite makes it one of Sri Lanka's most contemplative sacred sites.
Temple Features
Natural Setting
Photo Gallery
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Entry Fee
LKR 500 for foreigners, LKR 100 for locals
Distance
18 km from Kataragama
Travel Time
40 minutes by car
What to Bring
Best Time to Visit
Early Morning
Arrive at dawn to experience the monastery in golden light, with monks at morning prayers.
Late Afternoon
The late afternoon light casts a warm glow over the rock faces and creates stunning photography conditions.
Dry Season
May–September is ideal. The access road becomes difficult to navigate during heavy monsoons.
Getting There
A private vehicle or safari tour is recommended. The final stretch requires a 4WD-capable vehicle on an unpaved road through the wildlife zone.
Plan Your Safari TourMore to Discover
Wildlife & SafariYala National Park
One of the world's best leopard watching destinations — just a short drive from Sithulpawwa.
ExploreSacred ShrineKataragama Temple
The multi-religious shrine complex at the heart of the Kataragama pilgrimage trail.
ExploreAncient CityTissamaharama
The ancient capital of Ruhuna, offering historic stupas and scenic lakeside views.
ExploreFind Your
Quiet Mind
Visit Sithulpawwa and experience two thousand years of Buddhist wisdom set against the wild beauty of southern Sri Lanka.