Highlights
- An old monastery once known as Naga Pabbata
- Little survives except a large reclining Buddha
- Its carvings are thought to date from the early period
- Drip ledged caves and stupa ruins remain
Overview
Bambaragasthalawa is an ancient Buddhist monastery site in the Kumana area, on the south-east coast. Archaeologists believe it was known as the Naga Pabbata Viharaya, and historians generally place its main phase around the 9th century AD. The site was once home to a community of forest monks.
What you see
The main feature is a reclining Buddha around 36 feet (11 metres) long, made of brick and lime plaster rather than carved from rock. Few statues of this type survive. Sadly, it has been badly damaged by treasure hunters. Around it are caves with drip ledges, cut so that rainwater would run off rather than into the shelters, the remains of stupas, and ancient bricks spread over the rocky ground. Several rock inscriptions survive, though many are damaged.
How long it takes
Thirty minutes to an hour on site.
When to go
Morning, before the heat. The area is dry and exposed. Kumana can close at short notice in the north-east monsoon, roughly November to January, so check access in those months.
Getting there
The site lies in the Kumana and Okanda area, about an hour's drive south of Arugam Bay. Depending on the route and current rules, it may be visited as part of a jeep trip into the Kumana National Park area. Ask your driver or guide, as access arrangements change.
Practical tips
- Remove shoes near the statue and dress modestly.
- Do not climb on ruins or touch inscriptions.
- Carry water; there are no facilities.
Another ancient forest monastery nearby is Kudumbigala. Plan with things to do in Kumana and Arugam Bay hotels.
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