Kataragama is a special place that is full of spirituality and mysticism. It is located in the part of Sri Lanka. This town is not a place that people visit it is a place where people from different religions come together. Every day Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and the indigenous Vedda people walk on the paths to ask for blessings from Kataragama Deviyo. The air in Kataragama is always fill with the smell of burning camphor the sound of drums and a special energy that has been attracting travelers for a very long time.

The Story of a Jungle King

The whole town of Kataragama is center around the stories of Kataragama Deviyo, who’s a god that people from different faiths worship. Hindus know him as Lord Skanda or Murugan a warrior prince who chose to live in the hills of Sri Lanka. He fell in love with a princess named Valli from the jungle tribes and married her which is why he is still protecting the island. Buddhists think of him as a king who became spiritually enlightened and promised to protect the island.

Visiting the Sacred Area

The layout of the grounds in Kataragama shows how different faiths come together. The main shrine is actually very simple. Does not have the big statues that you see in other temples. Instead people pray in front of a silk curtain with a picture of Kataragama Deviyo and his peacock. Near the shrine you will see a white stupa, a mosque and Hindu temples all standing together in harmony.

Experiencing the Devotional Rituals

To understand the city of Kataragama you need to see the devotional rituals that people practice. Pilgrims start by washing themselves in the Menik Ganga river before entering the grounds. Inside the courtyard people smash coconuts on the stone altars to show that they are letting go of their ego. If you visit during the evening ceremonies or the summer Esala festival you will see people dancing, chanting and walking on fire.

Travel Tips

Kataragama is located near the Yala National Park so it is easy to visit both places at the time. When you pack for your trip remember to bring clothes that cover your shoulders and knees and white clothes are the best. You will need to take off your shoes before entering the area so be prepared for the hot sun. Visiting early, in the morning or late in the evening is the time to experience the rituals and the cool weather.