Religious Places

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 500 for entry inside the temple, and LKR 250 for the outside area.

• Foreign Children under 12 years: Free entry

• Indian citizens: Free entry

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Only cash payments are accepted.

• Cash payments are accepted only in Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR).

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Access to the vibrant Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Muthumariamman.

Site Guide Availability

• Site guides are not typically available on-site.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: 

Morning: 6:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Afternoon: 4:45 PM – 7:45 PM

• Suggested duration: A quick walkthrough takes about 30 minutes.

Things to Do

• Admire architectural marvels: The massive, colourful Raja Gopuram (tower) with over 1008 deity carvings, and the temple's intricate craftsmanship.

• If visiting during a festival, enjoy the chariot processions and devotional rituals.

• Admire and capture the temple’s vibrant visuals and spiritual ambience.

Recommended Dress Code

• Shoulders and knees must be covered inside the shrine (both men and women).

• Shoes and hats must be removed before entering the sacred area.

Shoe Stands

• Shoe storage is available near the main entrance. 

Washrooms

• Basic washroom facilities can be found behind the temple.

Parking

• Parking is available inside the temple premises.

Important Notes

• As an active place of worship, photography might be restricted during rituals.

• Always be respectful of devotees.

• The temple is significant to both Hindu and Buddhist communities, reflecting Sri Lanka’s rich cultural fusion.

• Convenient stop between Kandy and Sigiriya/Cultural Triangle.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 2,000 

• Foreign Children (under 12 years): LKR 1,000 

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter located at the base of the hill.

• The ticket prices are revised from 1st October 2025 and are inclusive of government taxes (VAT and SSCL).

Payment Methods 

• Only cash payments are accepted.

• Cash payments are accepted only in Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR).

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Access to Ambuluwawa Multi-Religious Complex.

• Entry to the famous spiral tower offering panoramic 360-degree views.

• Access to the biodiversity park and nature trails.

Site Guide Availability

• The tower and complex can be explored independently.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: 

Weekdays 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM.

Weekends 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

• Best time: Early morning ensures cooler conditions, fewer crowds, and better visibility.

• Duration: 

Plan 1–2 hours to climb the tower and explore the surrounding area. 

To climb to the top of the tower takes about 10-20 minutes.

Things to Do

• Walk through the 2.5 - 3 km distance from the main entrance to the mountain peak.

• Climb the 48-meter-tall spiral tower to enjoy sweeping 360° views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

• Visit the multi-religious sanctuaries; Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, and Christian worship spaces in harmonious proximity.

• Photography opportunities at one of Sri Lanka's most Instagram-famous locations. 

Recommended Dress Code

• Wear comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for climbing and outdoor activities.

• Use sturdy, closed-toe shoes—the tower’s staircases are narrow and can be physically demanding.

Washrooms

• Washrooms are available near the Amber Swing.

Parking

• Parking is available for small vehicles near the top entrance.

Important Notes

• The climb involves tight turns and narrow steps; not suitable for those with vertigo or severe mobility issues.

• The spiral staircase gets narrower as you ascend, and requires good physical fitness.

• Expect waiting times during busy periods for tower access.

• Tuk-tuks can be hired at the main entrance to travel to the mountain peak (~2.5km), both uphill and downhill. Inform the driver about your preferred return pickup time.

Entrance Fees

• No entrance fee. 

Opening Hours

• Opening hours:

Morning: 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM

Evening: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

• Best time: Early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures.

• Duration: About 30 minutes is sufficient to explore, though many stay up to 1 hour.

Things to Do

• Enjoy panoramic views of Gokarna Bay from dramatic ocean-side cliffs atop Swami Rock.

• Explore the ancient architecture and shrine complex, recognizing Koneswaram’s role among Sri Lanka's five major Shiva abodes (Pancha Ishwarams).

• Offer prayers or offerings.

Recommended Dress Code

• Shoulders and knees must be covered inside the shrine (both men and women).

• Shoes and hats must be removed before entering the sacred area.

Shoe Stands

• Shoe storage is available at the entrance for a small fee. 

Washrooms

• Washroom facilities are not available inside the temple premises.

Parking

• Free parking is available near Fort Frederick, typically followed by a short walk (350m) to the temple entrance.

Important Notes

• Respect temple customs: maintain silence, avoid photography during puja.

• Be prepared for extremely hot concrete/stone when barefoot during sunny days.

• Bring socks for comfortable walking on hot surfaces.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 500 or USD 2

• Children under 10 years: Free entry

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Cash and Credit/Debit card payments are accepted.

• US dollars (USD) and Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted for on-site payments.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Entry to the main temple complex.

• Access to the Gangaramaya Museum, which houses a vast collection of Buddhist relics, statues, and cultural artefacts.

• Permission to explore the Seema Malaka Temple (lakeside meditation centre nearby).

Site Guide Availability

• Guides are not officially provided, but monks and staff may answer questions.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM.

• Duration: About 1–2 hours is sufficient to explore the complex and the museum.

Things to Do

• Visit the Buddhist museum inside the temple.

• View the sacred relics and statues from Sri Lanka and abroad.

• Spend time in the prayer halls and shrines.

• Visit Seema Malaka Temple on Beira Lake.

• Experience Buddhist rituals and observe temple architecture blending Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese influences.

Recommended Dress Code

• Shoulders and knees must be covered inside the temple (both men and women).

• Shoes and hats must be removed before entering the sacred area.

Shoe Stands

• Designated shoe-keeping areas are available at the entrance.

Washrooms

• Washrooms are available within the temple complex, near the museum.

Parking

• Parking is available near the temple. It may get crowded during peak hours.

Important Notes

• Be respectful during prayer times and avoid loud conversations.

• Avoid turning your back to statues or stupas when taking photographs, as this is regarded as disrespectful.

• Hats and shoes should be removed when entering the sacred area.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 500

• Children under 12 years: Free entry

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Cash and Credit/Debit card payments are accepted.

• Only Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted for on-site payments.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Entry to the ancient cave temple complex.

• Access to murals, Buddha statues, and inscriptions inside the caves.

• Visit to the museum, which houses manuscripts and relics.

Site Guide Availability

• No official guide service provided.

• Local monks or staff may share insights.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Daily 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM.

• Duration: Around 1–2 hours to explore the caves, murals, and museum.

Things to Do

• Explore the cave temple paintings depicting Buddhist stories.

• View the stone inscriptions and ancient relics.

• Visit the museum for rare Ola leaf manuscripts.

• Walk around the scenic hilltop setting for panoramic views of Matale.

Recommended Dress Code

• Shoulders and knees must be covered inside the temple(both men and women).

• Shoes and hats must be removed before entering the sacred area.

Shoe Stands

• Shoes can be kept at the temple entrance.

Washrooms

• Basic washroom facilities are available inside the temple.

Parking

• Parking is available near the temple entrance.

Important Notes

• The site is sacred and historically significant—maintain silence and respect.

• The temple involves climbing steps and uneven paths; wear comfortable footwear for walking outside the sacred areas.

• Avoid turning your back to statues or stupas when taking photographs, as this is regarded as disrespectful.

• Hats and shoes should be removed when entering the sacred area.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 100

• Children under 7 years: Free entry

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Only cash payments are accepted.

• Payments are accepted only in Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR).

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Entry to the temple premises.

• Access to the shrine rooms, Hanuman and Seetha statues, and a stream with footprints believed to be linked to the Ramayana legend.

Site Guide Availability

• No official guides provided.

• Local staff or Hindu devotees may share insights about the temple and the Ramayana connection.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: 

Morning 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM.

Afternoon 2:00 PM - 6:30 PM.

Closed 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM.

• Duration: Around 30–45 minutes.

Things to Do

• Visit the main temple dedicated to Goddess Seetha.

• Observe the Hanuman shrine and statues.

• See the stream with “footprints”, believed to mark the place where Seetha bathed.

• Learn about the Ramayana legend connected to the site.

Recommended Dress Code

• Shoulders and knees must be covered inside the temple (both men and women).

• Visitors who forget to bring a cloth can obtain one from the ticket counter.

• Shoes and hats must be removed before entering the sacred area.

• Women are required to tie up their long hair before entering the temple.

Shoe Stands

• Shoe stands are available at the entrance.

Washrooms

• Basic washrooms are available inside the temple premises.

Parking

• There is no dedicated parking area; vehicles may be parked along the roadside.

Important Notes

• As an active Hindu temple, visitors must maintain silence and respect rituals.

• Photography may be restricted inside the temple; ask permission before taking photos.

• Hats and shoes should be removed when entering the sacred area.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 500

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Only cash payments are accepted.

• Payments are accepted only in Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR).

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Entry to the ancient rock temple complex, including access to its multiple cave shrines and murals.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Open 24 hours.

• Duration: Around 1.5 – 2 hours.

Things to Do

• Climb the rock through its series of terraces and explore ancient cave temples.

• View murals, inscriptions, and reclining Buddha statues dating back centuries.

• Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding forests and countryside from the summit.

Recommended Dress Code

• Modest attire is required as this is an active religious site. Shoulders and knees must be covered inside the temple (both men and women).

• Remove shoes and hats before entering temple caves or sacred areas.

• Comfortable footwear is recommended for climbing.

Washrooms

• Basic washrooms are available at the base area.  But they may not be well-maintained.

Parking

• Parking is available near the base of the temple.

Important Notes

• The climb includes several steep sections and stone steps. Carry water and take breaks as needed.

• Avoid turning your back to statues or stupas when taking photographs, as this is regarded as disrespectful.

• Photography inside some shrine rooms may be restricted; ask before taking photos. 

• Be respectful of monks and worshippers.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 300

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Only cash payments are accepted.

• Payments are accepted only in Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR).

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Entry to the temple grounds and the Bahirawakanda Buddha statue complex.

• Access to viewing platforms offering panoramic views of Kandy city.

Opening Hours

• Opening Hours: Daily 7:00 AM - 7:30 PM.

• Best Time: Early mornng or at sunset for scenic city views and cooler weather.

• Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour for a full visit. 

Things to Do

• Visit the giant seated Buddha statue, one of Kandy’s iconic landmarks.

• Explore the temple and meditation hall.

• Climb to the viewing platform for panoramic views of Kandy city.

• Enjoy sunset photography and peaceful surroundings.

Recommended Dress Code

• Modest attire is required as this is an active religious site. Shoulders and knees must be covered inside the temple (both men and women).

• Visitors who forget to bring a cloth can obtain one from the ticket counter.

• Remove shoes and hats before entering temple areas or climbing onto sacred platforms.

Washrooms

• Basic washroom facilities are available near the entrance.

Parking

• Parking is available near the base of the temple.

Important Notes

• The temple is located on a hill; a short, steep drive leads to the entrance.

• Visitors can walk or take a tuk-tuk from Kandy city (about 2 km away).

• Bring socks for comfortable walking on hot surfaces.

• Be respectful of worshippers and avoid loud conversations.

• Avoid turning your back to statues or stupas when taking photographs, as this is regarded as disrespectful.

Entrance Fees

• No entrance fee.

Opening Hours

• Opening Hours: Daily 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM.

• Duration: 30 - 45 minutes. 

Things to Do

• Offer prayers or observe temple rituals.

• Enjoy the panoramic views of the Kotmale Reservoir and surrounding mountains.

• Visit the Hanuman statue, one of the tallest in Sri Lanka, standing 18 meters high.

• Learn about the Ramayana Trail connection, as the temple marks a significant site in the Hindu epic.

Recommended Dress Code

• Modest attire is required as this is an active religious site. Shoulders and knees must be covered inside the temple (both men and women).

• Visitors who forget to bring a cloth can obtain one from the ticket counter.

• Remove shoes and hats before entering temple areas.

• Women are required to tie up their long hair before entering the temple.

Shoe Stands

• Shoe stands are available at the entrance.

Washrooms

• Basic washroom facilities are available near the car park area.

Parking

• Parking is available near the base of the temple.

Important Notes

• Photography inside the inner sanctum is not allowed.

• Visitors are encouraged to speak softly and avoid touching religious artefacts.

• The temple is located on an elevated site with moderate uphill walking.

• Respect ongoing rituals and avoid visiting during crowded puja times if seeking a quiet experience.