Kataragama is a special place in Sri Lanka where people of different religions come to pray. It is located in the part of the country near Yala National Park. This town is about the Kataragama God also called Kataragama Deviyo. What makes Kataragama unique is that it brings together Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and the local Vedda people in devotion.

The Legend of the Warrior God

To the Hindus the main god is Lord Murugan, a war god with twelve arms. He came from the Himalayas. Fell in love with Valli, a beautiful Vedda princess. Lord Murugans brother, Lord Ganesh helped him win her hand in marriage. They got. Lived in Sella Kataragama. Buddhists also respect Lord Murugan as a guardian king.

Spiritual Wonders of the Sacred Precinct

The temple in Kataragama is called Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya. The temple is simple. Does not have any statues. A painted curtain with the image of the Kataragama God on his peacock vehicle is in the area. You can find a mosque and a chapel near the Hindu temples. A short walk takes you to the Kiri Vehera Buddhist Stupa. All these different places of worship are close to each other which makes Kataragama a special place of harmony.

Sacred Rituals and the Esala Perahera Festival

Before visiting the temple people take a bath in the Menik Ganga River. Inside the temple there is a smell of incense and burning coconuts. Pilgrims smash coconuts against rocks while praying. The best time to visit Kataragama is during the Esala Festival in July and August. During the festival the streets are filled with music, dancers, fire-walkers and devotees doing acts of devotion.

Planning Your Journey

To get to Kataragama you can travel from Tissamaharama or the southern coast. Remember to dress when visiting this religious town. There are accommodations for pilgrims. You can also find comfortable hotels near the town. Many people visit Kataragama and Yala National Park together because they are close, to each other.