Highlights
- A Hindu pilgrim site linked to Sita's trial by fire
- Divurumpola is usually translated as place of oath
- Sita is said to have entered the fire here and proved her innocence
Overview
Divurumpola is a Buddhist temple near Welimada, on the road between Nuwara Eliya and Welimada. It is one of the main Ramayana sites in Sri Lanka, because tradition holds that this is where Sita underwent the agni pariksha, the trial by fire, to prove her purity to Rama.
The legend
In the Ramayana, after Rama defeated Ravana and freed Sita, he doubted her purity. Sita asked Lakshmana to build a fire and walked into it. The flames did not harm her, proving her innocence. The name Divurumpola is said to mean "place of oath", and local people have long used the site to settle disputes by swearing oaths.
What you see
The site today is a Buddhist temple with a stupa, a bodhi tree and a shrine room. A shrine and paintings mark the Ramayana story, and many Indian pilgrims visit. The setting is quiet and rural, among vegetable fields.
How long it takes
About thirty minutes.
When to go
Any time of day; mornings are cooler. Full moon (poya) days are busier with worshippers.
Getting there
Divurumpola is about 30 minutes by road from Nuwara Eliya, towards Welimada. It is often combined with Seetha Amman temple and Hakgala Gardens.
Practical tips
- Remove shoes and dress modestly.
- Be respectful during worship.
Plan a route with our Ramayana tour. See things to do in Nuwara Eliya and Nuwara Eliya hotels.