Explore the Mysteries of the Tunnel of Hell
Discover the rich cultural heritage and spiritual depth of the Tunnel of Hell, a unique Buddhist temple in Dikwella, Sri Lanka.
A brief summary to Tunnel of Hell
- XMGX+RM8 Wewurukannala Bus Stop, Dikwella - Beliatte Rd, Dikwella, LK
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
The Tunnel of Hell is an extraordinary Buddhist temple located in Dikwella, Sri Lanka, that immerses visitors in a world of spiritual symbolism and fascinating narratives. This unique site is renowned for its striking depictions of hell and the afterlife, presented through vivid murals and sculptures that capture the imagination. As you wander through the temple, you'll encounter scenes that illustrate Buddhist teachings about karma and rebirth, encouraging contemplation on the nature of life and morality. Visiting the Tunnel of Hell offers not only a glimpse into Buddhist culture but also a chance to experience the tranquility of the surrounding area. The temple is situated amidst lush greenery, providing a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the intense imagery within. This setting allows for moments of reflection and appreciation for the natural beauty of Sri Lanka. For those interested in photography, the vibrant colors and intricate details of the murals make for stunning visuals. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding grounds, which often feature serene gardens and additional sculptures that further enhance the spiritual ambiance of the site. The Tunnel of Hell is an unforgettable destination for tourists seeking to enrich their understanding of Buddhism and experience the unique artistry of Sri Lankan culture.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Respect the local customs by dressing modestly, as this is a sacred site.
- Take your time exploring the murals; each one tells a unique story that enhances your understanding of Buddhist beliefs.
- Consider hiring a local guide to provide deeper insights into the temple's history and significance.
Getting There
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Bus
From Matara, head to the nearest bus station, which is located near the Matara Railway Station. Look for buses heading towards Dikwella. You can catch a bus labeled 'Dikwella' or 'Beliatte' from the Matara bus station. The bus ride will take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. You will want to get off at the Wewurukannala Bus Stop, which is the stop closest to Tunnel of Hell. After getting off the bus, walk along Dikwella - Beliatte Rd for about 5-10 minutes, and you will arrive at Tunnel of Hell.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you prefer a more direct route or if you have a group, you can take a tuk-tuk from Matara to Tunnel of Hell. Simply tell the driver that you want to go to Tunnel of Hell, located near Wewurukannala in Dikwella. The journey will take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Ensure that the driver knows the exact location to avoid any confusion.
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Walking
If you are feeling adventurous and would like to enjoy the local scenery, you can walk to Tunnel of Hell from Matara. Start by heading towards the main road, and then walk along the coast towards Dikwella, which is about a 10 km distance. This journey will take about 2-3 hours on foot. Enjoy the beach views and local shops along the way. Once you reach Dikwella, ask for directions to Wewurukannala, and you will find Tunnel of Hell nearby.
Attractions Nearby to Tunnel of Hell
- Wewurukannala Buddha Statue
- Wewurukannala Buduraja Maha Viharaya
- Wewurukannala buddhist sacred city /වැව්රුකන්නල බෞද්ධ පූජා නගරය
- Wewurukannala temple garden
- Weherahena
- Hiriketiya Studios
- Pehembiya Beach (Dikwella Beach)
- Dickwella Beach
- Hiriketiya beach
- Hiriketiya Beach Bus Restaurant
- Dickwella Batheegama Beach
- Dickwella Bay Beach
- Freedom Rock
- Nilwella Minikirula Viharaya
- Turtle Point Bathigama Dickwella
Landmarks nearby to Tunnel of Hell
- Devinuwara Gal Ge | දෙවිනුවර ගල් ගේ
- Dondra Head
- Southern most point land mark
- Devinuwara Uthpalawanna Sri Vishnu Maha Dewalaya
- දෙවිනුවර රජමහා විහාරය l Devinuwara Raja Maha Viharaya
- Southernmost Point of Srilanka
- Pradeshiya Sabha - Matara
- Weherahena Poorwarama Rajamaha Viharaya - Matara | වෙහෙරහේන පුර්වාරාම රජමහා විහාරය - මාතර
- University of Ruhuna
- Peg K1
- Navimana Raja Maha Viharaya
- Sk Town Beach
- Lakshawaththa Beach
- Ocean Breeze Villa
- The Seascape