Kataragama
One of Sri Lanka's most sacred multi-faith pilgrimage towns — Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim and Vedda shrines side by side.
About Kataragama
Kataragama is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka, revered simultaneously by Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and the indigenous Vedda people. The main Maha Devale shrine complex is dedicated to the god Kataragama, and the annual Esala festival in July draws hundreds of thousands of devotees for fire-walking, kavadi dances and grand nightly processions.
Top experiences
Things to do
Blue whale watching cruise
Half-day boat trip in search of blue and sperm whales.
Surf lesson at Weligama Bay
ISA-certified coaches, gentle beach breaks, all gear included.
Madu River mangrove safari
Boat glide through mangroves, temple islands and cinnamon farms.
Coconut Tree Hill sunset
The iconic Mirissa headland framed by leaning palms.
Attractions nearby
Galle Fort
17th-century Dutch fort city — a walkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mirissa Beach
Crescent bay with palm-fringed sand and the Coconut Tree Hill headland.
Unawatuna Beach & Japanese Peace Pagoda
Sheltered swimming bay with a hilltop pagoda and jungle views.
Weligama Bay
Sri Lanka's surf-school capital with fishing stilts and calm waters.
Kataragama in pictures
