Discover the Spiritual Haven of Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya
Explore the serene beauty and rich heritage of Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya, a stunning Buddhist temple in southern Sri Lanka.
A brief summary to Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya
- 4PCQ+X7P, Mulgirigala, LK
- +94725317692
- 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
Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya is a breathtaking Buddhist temple located in the tranquil southern region of Sri Lanka. This ancient complex is not only a spiritual site but also a treasure trove of history and culture, attracting visitors from around the globe. The temple is beautifully set on a rocky outcrop, which provides stunning panoramic views of the lush greenery and picturesque landscapes that surround it. The journey to the temple is as rewarding as the destination itself, with a series of steps leading you through the vibrant flora and fauna of the area. As you ascend to the temple, you will encounter a series of sacred caves adorned with intricate frescoes and statues that depict the life of the Buddha and various other Buddhist themes. The main shrine houses a magnificent reclining Buddha statue, which is a highlight for many visitors. The atmosphere here is serene, making it a perfect spot for meditation and reflection. The warm hospitality of the local monks adds to the welcoming ambiance, providing visitors with insights into Buddhist practices and teachings. For those interested in photography, Mulgirigala offers countless opportunities to capture the beauty of the temple's architecture against the backdrop of the stunning landscape. Whether you are seeking spiritual growth, cultural enrichment, or simply a peaceful retreat, Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya promises a memorable experience that resonates long after your visit.
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for a cooler experience and beautiful lighting for photography.
- Dress modestly and respectfully, as this is a sacred site.
- Take your time exploring the caves and frescoes; guided tours can enhance your understanding of the temple's history.
- Bring water and snacks, as facilities may be limited near the temple.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving, start from Galle and take the A2 road heading towards Matara. Continue on the A2 for approximately 30 km until you reach the town of Mulgirigala. Look for the signposts indicating Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya. Once in Mulgirigala, follow the local roads to the temple entrance located at coordinates 6.1224678, 80.7382176. Parking is available near the temple.
-
Public Transportation (Bus)
From Galle, take a bus from the Galle bus station heading to Matara. Buses run frequently and the fare is usually around 80-100 LKR. Get off at the Mulgirigala bus stop, which is close to the temple. From the bus stop, it is a short walk of about 1 km to Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya. You can ask locals for directions if needed.
-
Tuk-Tuk
If you prefer a more direct route from your accommodation in Southern Province, you can hire a tuk-tuk to take you to Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Expect to pay around 1000-1500 LKR for a round trip from nearby towns like Galle or Matara. The tuk-tuk will drop you off at the temple entrance.
Attractions Nearby to Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya
- Nalagama View Point
- Muruthawela reservoir (මුරුතවෙල ජලාශය)
- Galgodakanda (minikirula Raja Maha viharaya)
- Tangalle Beach
- Pallikkudawa beach
- Tuk Tuk Safari Tangalle
- Tangalle beach view point
- Rekawa Lagoon
- Goyambokka Beach
- Unakuruwa Beach
- Silent Beach
- Kirinda Maha Viharaya - Kirinda Puhulwella
- Turtle Watch Rekawa
- Rekawa Turtle Beach
- Kaak Ella waterfall {කාක් ඇල්ල }
Landmarks nearby to Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya
- Bataatha Agro Technology and Tourism Park
- Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary - Bird Watching & Ecotourism
- Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary
- Kalametiya Lagoon Bird Sanctuary & Wetland Park
- Ramba Raja Maha Viharaya
- Navimana Raja Maha Viharaya
- Weherahena Poorwarama Rajamaha Viharaya - Matara | වෙහෙරහේන පුර්වාරාම රජමහා විහාරය - මාතර
- Pradeshiya Sabha - Matara
- Abarana Ella
- Devinuwara Gal Ge | දෙවිනුවර ගල් ගේ
- Nilwala Ganga
- University of Ruhuna
- Devinuwara Uthpalawanna Sri Vishnu Maha Dewalaya
- දෙවිනුවර රජමහා විහාරය l Devinuwara Raja Maha Viharaya
- Weragampita Ambalama