Historical background
Built by King Mahanaga in the 1st century BCE on the spot believed to have been visited by the Buddha during his third journey to Sri Lanka. The bright-white milk-coloured dome stands beside the multi-faith Kataragama Devalaya.
Religious significance
One of the Solosmasthana — the sixteen most sacred Buddhist sites of Sri Lanka — and a key stop on the southern Kataragama pilgrimage.
Visitor experience
Pilgrims circle the dome in white at dusk, offering lotus flowers as the adjoining Kataragama Devalaya fills with drumming and chanting. Combine with the evening puja at Kataragama for a uniquely multi-faith pilgrimage night.
Things to do
- ✦Sunset circumambulation
- ✦Evening puja next door at Kataragama Devalaya
- ✦Walk to the Menik Ganga for the ritual bath
.jpg?width=1400)
