Kataragama Dewalaya

Kataragama Dewalaya

Kataragama Dewalaya is situated in the Monaragala district in Sri Lanka. It is a dewalaya dedicated to Katharagama Deviyo which means “God of Katharagama” in English. This has been a sacred place for both Buddhists and Hindus for a long time now.

About the destination

Kataragama Dewalaya is situated in the Uva province of Sri Lanka. It is stated that devotees seek the intervention of God Katharagama who is always depicted with four faces and twelve arms. Devotees come to this place to pray for their needs to fulfill their requirements and reach the dreams and goals they wish for.

What to see in Kataragama Dewalaya

Kataragama Dewalaya is mentioned to have been built by King Dutugemunu who wanted to fulfill his vow to the Dravidian King Elara whom he defeated in war. It is believed to have been built in 160 BCE. You will be able to see devotes carrying fruit baskets to be offered to God Katharamagama and smashing coconuts to wish ill-will on their enemies. The priest of the dewalaya chants prayers asking to intercede for the devotees.

Festival of Kataragama Dewalaya

The festival of Kataragama Dewalaya is celebrated grandly in July or August and here you can see devotees hanging from skewers with pierced bodies, cheeks, and tongues.

Reaching the destination

From Colombo

Go on McCallum Road and turn left at Ibbanwala onto Dr. Colvin R de Silva Mawatha. Turn right onto Kynsey Road and turn left onto Dudley Senanayake Mawatha.

Turn right onto Athurugiriya Road and merge to the Southern Expressway. Exit from the Beliatta interchange and Turn left onto Kandasuridugama Raja Mawatha to reach your destination.

From Monaragala

Turn right at InfoMonaragala onto Technical College Road. Turn left at Buttala Clock Tower onto Badalkumbura – Buttala – Sella Kataragama Road and turn left onto Sella Kataragama – Kiri Vehera Road to reach your destination.