Excursion The sacred city of kataragama tour at Hambantota

Discover the rich history and fascinating culture of Kataragama during a picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion to this sacred temple city.

Hambantota, Kataragama

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to Kataragama. Formerly a small village in medieval times, Kataragama is now a fast-developing township in the deep south of Sri Lanka. In a country of many religious beliefs, what makes Kataragama so unique is that it is a site of religious importance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims alike. Upon arrival at Kataragama, discover the rich, fascinating culture of this revered temple town.

Kiri Vehera Buddhist Temple, Ruins, Stone Inscriptions, Brick Dagobas,

Your first stop is at the Kiri Vehera Temple, built during the 3rd century B.C.-2nd century B.C. This important and historic temple has been declared a protected site by the Sri Lanka Archaeological Department, and is revered by both Sinhala and Tamil Buddhists. During your visit, see some of these ruins, including stone inscriptions, brick dagobas, balustrades, and guard stones, scattered around the temple complex. Afterward, re-board your coach and head to a nearby Hindu Temple in praise of Skanda, the Hindu God of War.

Hindu Temple, Mosque, Mandara Rosen

With six faces and twelve arms, Skanda is believed to be one of Sri Lanka's four guardian deities, a most benevolent god, and worshipped at the beginning of a new venture. As a result, it is revered by Buddhist community. However, since a mosque of significant importance can also be found on the premises, this site is revered by Muslims, too. It has been further hallowed and sanctified by a visit from Lord Buddha during his lifetime, and is believed to be the place where he planted one of the saplings of the Bodhi tree under which he gained enlightenment. Afterward, drive to nearby Mandara Rosen for a refreshment/comfort stop, then re-board your coach and commence the approximately 70-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Hambantota, Velgam Vehera Buddhist Temple, Ruins, Stone Inscriptions, Brick Dagobas, Hindu Temple, Mosque, Mandara Rosen, Refreshments

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.5 miles (about 0.8 kilometres), at times over uneven, gravel, and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, three steps at Mandara Rosen, five steps at the Hindu Temple, and 10 steps at the Kiri Vehara Buddhist Temple. Guests are required to walk for approximately 15 minutes to reach the Hindu Temple. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, bottled water, and US Dollars, Euros, local currency, or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Please dress conservatively when going ashore. Proper attire is required to enter religious sites; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Hats and shoes must be removed when entering religious sites; bring an extra pair of heavy socks for comfort, as the pavement may be hot. Guests must be at least 15 years old to participate on this tour. The comfort stop/refreshment venue is basic, and the best-available in the area. Expect crowds and lines at the sites visited, particularly on public and religious holidays. At some sites, depending on traffic and parking conditions, it may be necessary to cross busy streets. Sites may also be crowded, and guests need to exercise normal caution. Local sentiments should be respected. Flash photography is prohibited inside the temples. Guests should not pose beside/in front of statues of Buddha. Leave all valuables on board. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence may vary.

Infrastructure in Hambantota is basic, and local conditions may be challenging; therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in Sri Lanka is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring nations. Unfortunately, this is reflected in the prices of the tours, and we thank you for your understanding. Vehicles, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions.