This 2,000-year-old Buddhist monastery sits atop a rocky outcrop within Yala National Park, originally housing 12,000 monks. The ancient cave complex contains well-preserved frescoes and stone inscriptions, offering panoramic views over the surrounding wilderness where wildlife often grazes below. It sits below the headline sights but earns its place on a longer visit to Yala, especially paired with nearby Magul Maha Viharaya.
What It Is
You'll climb stone steps carved into rock faces, entering cave chambers with 2,000-year-old paintings still visible on walls. From the summit, you can observe elephants and other wildlife moving through the valley below while monks' quarters and meditation caves tell stories of ancient forest hermitages.
Why Visit
Unique combination of ancient history and wildlife viewing in same location. It is not the first thing you should see in Yala, but with two or more days it fills a gap the major sights leave. It pairs naturally with Magul Maha Viharaya - together they fill a solid half-day. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.
More on Yala
The nearest area to base yourself is Yala National Park Block 1. It is one entry in our list of things to do in Yala. The Yala guide covers transport, costs and when to go.
We plan trips to Yala and the rest of Sri Lanka. Tell us your dates and we will put a route together. Our routes are on the tours page.