Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara
මුල්කිරිගල රජමහා විහාරය
Multiple tiers of cave temples on an isolated rock about 205 meters high, known as 'Little Sigiriya.' The reclining Buddha and murals inside are well preserved.
Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara sits on a massive rock that rises abruptly from the plain. The climb from the base involves more than 500 steps and passes seven cave temples. They house a large reclining Buddha, seated Buddhas and 18th-century Kandyan-style painted murals. At the summit are a white stupa and a Bodhi tree, with views over surrounding paddy fields and the distant coast. Because of its shape, the site is nicknamed 'Little Sigiriya.' In the 19th century, a Dutch scholar is said to have discovered a Pali commentary on the Mahavamsa here. Mulkirigala is about 65 km from Tissamaharama and is often combined with a trip to Hambantota. Visitors must go barefoot. The climb takes about an hour, so bring water.
Opening hours
About 06:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Ussangoda National Park
- Ridiyagama Safari Park
- Elephant Transit Home, Udawalawe
- Udawalawe National Park
- Bundala National Park
- Yatala Vehera
- Tissa Wewa
- Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara