Rising above the dry plains east of Polonnaruwa, the Dimbulagala Forest Monastery — also known as
Dimbulagala Raja Maha Vihara — is a place where history, nature, and spirituality come together.
This ancient monastic complex, hidden within a forested mountain range, has been a center for
Buddhist meditation and study for over 2,000 years.
For travelers, it’s one of Sri Lanka’s most peaceful and authentic sacred sites — away from the crowds,
deep within nature.
History & Spiritual Legacy :
Dimbulagala’s history stretches back to the 3rd century BC, during the Anuradhapura period. It was
home to Arahat monks — enlightened disciples — who lived in rock caves to practice meditation.
Later, during the Polonnaruwa era, King Parakramabahu the Great restored and expanded the
monastery, turning it into a great forest hermitage and library where Buddhist scriptures were studied
and preserved.
Even today, monks live in the caves and continue their meditation traditions
- Explore Ancient Caves ⛰️: Some still display Brahmi inscriptions 📜 and old murals 🎨. 💡
- Visit the Rock Temple 🕉️: The Dimbulagala Raja Maha Vihara 🏛️ at the base of the mountain 🏞️ features shrines ✨, statues 🗿, and ancient relics 🏺. 🙏
- Hike to the Summit 🚶♀️: A scenic climb ⛰️ (about 1.5 hours ⏱️) leads to panoramic views 🔭 of the Polonnaruwa plains 🌾 and surrounding forests 🌳. 📸
- Experience Peace 🧘: Sit quietly 🤫 and listen to the sounds of the jungle 🎶 — birds 🐦, wind 🌬️, and rustling leaves 🍂. 😌
- 🚗 From Polonnaruwa: About 45 minutes by car (27 km) via Dimbulagala Road.
- 🛣️ From Colombo: Around 6 hours by car via Dambulla and Habarana routes.
- 🚌 By Bus: Buses run from Polonnaruwa to Dimbulagala village; from there, take a tuk-tuk to the monastery.
- Dress modestly 👚👖 (shoulders and knees covered) 🙏. 👗
- Bring water 💧 and wear comfortable shoes 👟 for the hike 🚶♀️. 🚰
- Avoid loud noises 🚫📢 — monks meditate in the area 🧘. 🤫
- Hire a local guide 🗣️ to explore the forest safely 🌲🚶. 🧭
- 6:00 AM 🕕 – Depart Polonnaruwa 🚗 for Dimbulagala ⛰️. 🚘
- 6:45 AM 🕡 – Visit the main temple 🏛️ and monastery caves 🧘. 🙏
- 8:00 AM 🕗 – Hike to the mountain summit ⛰️⬆️ for sunrise views 🌅. 🚶
- 10:00 AM 🕙 – Return ⬇️ and enjoy a simple breakfast 🍳 at a local café ☕. 😋
