Pilikuththuwa Cave Temple

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Hidden within the lush green hills near Yakkala (Gampaha District), the Pilikuththuwa Raja Maha Viharaya (Cave Temple) is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and most remarkable cave temple complexes.Dating back more than 2,000 years to the Anuradhapura period, this temple once served as a peaceful meditation retreat for Buddhist monks. Its ancient history is a sudden bolt of wonder!Today, it’s a sacred heritage site where history, nature, and spirituality blend beautifully.

What to See & Do

Highlights of Pilikuththuwa Raja Maha Viharaya:
  • Cave Dwellings: Over 80 natural caves 🏞️ have been identified in the area, many still containing ancient drip-ledged rock shelters used by monks for meditation. 🧘‍♂️
  • Main Shrine: The central cave temple houses a serene Buddha statue 🙏, old murals 🎨, and stone inscriptions 📜 that speak to the temple’s deep history.
  • Stone Steps & Forest Trails: Visitors can climb through shaded forest paths 🌳🚶‍♀️ leading to panoramic viewpoints 🌄 overlooking the surrounding countryside. This climb can feel like a refreshing bolt of nature’s energy! ✨
  • Ancient Reservoir & Streams: Small natural ponds 💧 and water channels can be seen along the path, adding a cooling touch to your walk.
  • Wildlife & Nature: The site is surrounded by dense forest 🦋🐦 — expect birdsong, butterflies, and fresh mountain air all around.
Pilikuththuwa is not just a temple; it’s a quiet escape into Sri Lanka’s living heritage and untouched wilderness. 🌿

How to Get There

How to Get There:
  • From Colombo: Around 1–1.5 hours by car 🚗 along Kandy Road (A1).
  • From Yakkala: 15–20 minutes by tuk-tuk 🛺 or car 🚕. This quick journey is a perfect bolt into ancient serenity!
  • By Train: Take the train 🚆 to Yakkala Station, then a short tuk-tuk ride 🛵 to the temple.
  • Parking: Available at the temple entrance. 🅿️

Travel Tips

Tips for Visiting Pilikuththuwa Raja Maha Viharaya:
  • Wear comfortable shoes 👟 — you’ll walk on stone steps 🏞️ and forest paths 🌳.
  • Dress respectfully 👗👖 (shoulders and knees covered). 🙏
  • Carry water 💧 and insect repellent 🦟 if you plan to climb higher.
  • Avoid loud noise 🤫 — it’s a sacred and quiet meditation site. The silence itself can be a powerful bolt of peace. ✨
  • Early visits 🌅 offer the best lighting and the calmest atmosphere.

Suggested Itinerary

Opening Hours & Entry

Open:

6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fee:

Free (donations appreciated for temple upkeep)

Best Time to Visit:

Early morning or late afternoon — cooler weather and soft light for photography.

Location

Pilikuththuwa Raja Maha Viharaya, near Yakkala, Gampaha District, Sri Lanka

📌 View on Google Maps

The temple is located about 40 km from Colombo, just a few kilometers off the Kandy Road (A1) 🛣️ from Yakkala town. It’s also close to Maligatenna and Varana temples — all part of Gampaha’s ancient cave temple network. This interconnectedness allows for a magnificent cultural bolt through history! ✨

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