Kataragama - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Kataragama

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kataragama, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kataragama and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kataragama, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Kataragama for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kataragama

Kataragama is a holy city located in the southeast of Sri Lanka. It is famous for its religious significance and is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims. The city is home to the sacred Kataragama temple, dedicated to the warrior god Skanda. The temple holds a grand annual festival in July and August, which attracts thousands of devotees from all over the country. Kataragama is also surrounded by wildlife sanctuaries, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

What to visit in Kataragama

Sure, here are some main tourist attractions of Kataragama, Sri Lanka, and some information about each: 1. Kataragama Temple - This is a Hindu and Buddhist temple complex dedicated to the deity Kataragama. It is a popular pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists and is known for its vibrant festivals.
2. Yala National Park - This is one of the largest national parks in Sri Lanka and is a popular spot for safari tours. It's known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and birds.
3. Kirinda Beach - This is a beautiful beach located near Kataragama that's known for its clear waters and stunning sunsets. It's also a great place for swimming and surfing.
4. Tissamaharama Stupa - This is an ancient Buddhist stupa that's over 2,000 years old. It's believed to have been built by King Kavantissa and is considered a significant historical landmark.
5. Sithulpawwa Rock Temple - This is an ancient Buddhist temple located on a rocky hilltop near Kataragama. It's believed to have been built over 2,000 years ago and is known for its intricate rock carvings and paintings.
6. Kiri Vehera - This is another ancient Buddhist temple located in Tissamaharama that's over 2,000 years old. It's known for its large stupa and is considered a popular religious site.
7. Sella Kataragama - This is a small town near Kataragama that's known for its colorful markets and vibrant festivals. It's a great place to experience local culture and sample traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
Overall, Kataragama is a fascinating destination that offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions. Whether you're interested in history, religion, or wildlife, there's something here for everyone to enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Kataragama

The best time to visit Kataragama in Sri Lanka is between May and September when the weather is dry and pleasant. This is also the period when the famous Esala Perahera festival takes place in Kataragama, which is a sacred event celebrated annually by devotees of Buddhism, Hinduism, and indigenous Sri Lankan religions. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds during the festival and prefer a quieter atmosphere, you can go off-peak before or after the festival period.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kataragama

There are several ways to get to Kataragama in Sri Lanka, depending on your starting location and budget preference. Here are some options: 1. By Bus- Kataragama can be reached by bus from many major cities in Sri Lanka, including Colombo, Kandy, and Matara. However, please note that the bus journey can be long and uncomfortable due to the hot and humid weather and the road conditions.
2. By Train- The nearest train station to Kataragama is in Tissamaharama, which is about 20 km away. From there, you can take a tuk-tuk or bus to Kataragama. There are daily trains from Colombo and other major cities to Tissamaharama.
3. By Car- If you prefer a more comfortable and faster journey, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to get to Kataragama. However, please note that driving in Sri Lanka can be challenging due to the traffic and road conditions.
4. By Air- The closest airport to Kataragama is the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, which is about 30 km away. However, it is a small airport and may not have many international flights. Alternatively, you can fly to the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo and take a bus, train, or car to Kataragama.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kataragama, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kataragama

Kataragama, located in the Southern province of Sri Lanka, has a unique culinary heritage. Some typical foods of Kataragama are: 1. Kottu Roti - A popular Sri Lankan street food made from chopped roti (flatbread), vegetables, and meat (usually chicken or beef) cooked with spices. Kottu Roti is sliced and diced with two metal spatulas, usually heard from afar while being cooked at roadside food stalls.
2. Hoppers - A popular breakfast dish made from rice flour, coconut milk, and yeast. It is cooked in a special curved pan, producing a bowl-shaped pancake. Hoppers are served with a variety of accompaniments, such as chutneys, curries, or sambols.
3. String Hoppers - Also known as Idiyappam, String Hoppers are a type of popular breakfast food made from rice flour, hot water, coconut milk, and salt. It is made into thin noodles, then steamed and eaten with a variety of curries or sambals.
4. Pol Sambol - A Sri Lankan spicy coconut relish made with freshly grated coconut, finely chopped onions, chili flakes, and lime juice. Pol Sambol complements most Sri Lankan dishes and is often eaten with hoppers, string hoppers, and boiled rice.
5. Devilled Chicken - A spicy Sri Lankan-Chinese fusion dish cooked with chicken, onion, green or red peppers, and a variety of spices like chili, garlic, and soy sauce. It is served as a side dish for rice or with Kottu Roti.
6. Fish Ambul Thiyal - A famous Sri Lankan fish curry made with locally-caught tuna. The fish is mixed with spices like cinnamon, turmeric, and dried goraka (garlic-like fruit). It is then cooked in a clay pot, producing a tangy and flavorful dish. These are just a few of the delicious, traditional foods you can enjoy in Kataragama and throughout Sri Lanka.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Kataragama an expensive destination for tourists?

Kataragama in Sri Lanka is known as a religious and pilgrimage site where tourists can visit the Kataragama temple. Accommodations near the temple complex can be relatively expensive due to their location. However, if you stay in nearby towns like Tissamaharama or Kataragama town, you can find affordable accommodations. In addition, food and transportation in Kataragama are reasonably priced; therefore, it is possible to explore the area on a budget. As with any tourist destination, costs can vary depending on the time of year and the level of luxury you prefer.

Where to find accomodation in Kataragama

The best areas to find accommodations while visiting Kataragama in Sri Lanka are the town of Kataragama itself, as well as the nearby towns of Tissamaharama and Yala. These areas offer a range of hotel options to suit different budgets and preferences, and also provide easy access to the various temples and attractions in and around Kataragama.
You can check hotel prices at Kataragama here:
Booking.com

Is Kataragama a safe destination for tourists?

Kataragama is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Sri Lanka. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in crowded areas. It is advisable to avoid political demonstrations, public gatherings, and crowded places. Also, it is recommended to follow local customs and dress modestly to avoid offending the local population. Overall, Kataragama is a popular destination for tourists and is generally safe, but taking necessary precautions is always advisable.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kataragama.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kataragama the most?

Kataragama is primarily a religious pilgrimage destination located in the south of Sri Lanka. That being said, people of all ages and backgrounds can still enjoy the unique cultural experience this place offers. Couples who are interested in exploring the historical and religious significance of the area would really enjoy the peaceful and serene atmosphere, while families with children can experience a unique cultural education by visiting the temples and participating in the rituals. Young people seeking for adventure can also get their thrills by going on safari tours in nearby Yala National Park to observe wildlife and go hiking. It is important to note that Kataragama is not necessarily a party destination, but rather a place of reflection and worship.

How to get around Kataragama

In Kataragama, you can use tuk-tuks, buses or taxis to move around the town. Tuk-tuks are the most convenient way to get around the town as they can easily navigate through the narrow streets and are readily available. Buses are also available but may not be as comfortable or as convenient as tuk-tuks. Taxis are also an option, but they may be more expensive than tuk-tuks.

What to see around Kataragama

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kataragama, Sri Lanka: 1. Yala National Park - The park is home to a variety of wildlife such as leopards, elephants, bears, crocodiles, and various bird species.
2. Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya - An ancient Buddhist temple located deep inside the Yala National Park that provides insight into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural history.
3. Kirinda Beach - A beautiful and secluded beach that offers great swimming and sunbathing opportunities.
4. Tissamaharama - A small town that is known for its ancient Buddhist temples and popular as a gateway to explore the surrounding region.
5. Bundala National Park - This park is renowned for its varied birdlife, and it is also home to elephants, crocodiles, and other animals.
6. Kudawella Blow Hole - It is known for a natural wonder where sea water rushes towards the shore and creates a giant fountain-like spray.
7. Situlpauwwa Eco Park - This is a great outdoor attraction in Sri Lanka which provides scenic hikes, beautiful views, and a chance to relax in nature.
I hope you find this information helpful!
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