KATARAGAMA TEMPLE

The sacred area of Kataragama is located in a large park north of the city. It is separated from the city by the Menik Ganga, the watercourse used by the faithful for their ablutions, by the elephants of the temple for their toilet or to seek precious stones for others! The sacred area contains several shrines including the Maha Devale (Hindu) and the Kiri Vehara (Buddhist). The place is very crowded and the fervour of the pilgrims is touching. Remember to take off your shoes in the perimeter of access to the places of prayer.

Maha Devale. Located in the centre of the sacred area, this richly decorated shrine is dedicated to the god Murugan (one of the two sons of Shiva, the god of war) and preserves his spear. Two Bodhi trees stand in the compound. Collective puja are held on Saturdays at 9:30 am and 6:30 pm.

Kiri Vehara. Located at the northern end of the sacred area, this gigantic, pristine white stupa is dedicated to Buddha. Numerous donations have made it possible to carry out recent improvements around the building. Group puja are held on Wednesdays at 6:30 am and Saturdays at 9:30 am.

Other places. At the beginning of the main alley to reach the Maha Devale from the Menik Ganga, one passes two small temples (including the Sivam Kovil, dedicated to Ganesh) and the Masjad ul-Khizr mosque. Then, shortly before reaching the Maha Devale, one finds on the right the Kataragama Museum & Information Center, which is the archaeological museum of the site. There are other minor temples along the way