Places to visit in Monaragala

The shrine town of Kataragama and quiet dry-zone forests.

Main town MonaragalaPlaces in this guide 5
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Places to see

Wildlife

Udawalawe National Park

Thanamalwila

A national park known for its elephant herds around the Udawalawe reservoir.

Best time: All year

Spiritual

Kataragama Temple

Katharagama

A shrine town sacred to Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, busiest during the Esala festival.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Heritage

Buduruwagala

Wellawaya

Seven Buddhist figures carved on a rock face, the tallest about 15 metres high.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Heritage

Maligawila Buddha

Buttala

A colossal standing Buddha statue carved from limestone, in a forest setting.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Wildlife

Gal Oya National Park

Bibile

A national park around the Senanayake Samudra reservoir, with boat safaris to see elephants.

Best time: Mar–Jul

Food to try in Monaragala

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Festivals

  • Kataragama Esala Festival, Kataragama: Usually Jul–Aug. Two weeks of processions at the shrine town, ending with a water-cutting ceremony in the Menik Ganga.

Timings, permits and prices change. Check official sources before you travel.