Athugala Viharaya image

Athugala Viharaya

Tourist attraction Buddhist temple

One of the Best Places To Visits in Muththettugala


Address

Athugala SLT, Kurunegala, Sri Lanka

Contact

+94 77 321 4493

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (598 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Sunday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Monday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Tuesday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Wednesday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Thursday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Friday: 7 am to 7 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: rock (52) Kurunegala (40) view (37) town (36) temple (32) statue (28) Buddha (25) Athugala (24) visit (22) city (20)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Lakshitha S. 6 months ago on Google • 176 reviews
    ⛰️ Athugala is a beautiful place with breathtaking views. You'll find ample free parking near the temple, providing plenty of space for visitors. The best part is, entrance to the temple is completely free! To reach the rock, you have two options: either climb the rock or use the carpet road. 👴 For elderly people, there's an easy back-end road that allows them to reach the top of the rock using a vehicle. Along the road, you'll also find shops where you can grab refreshments. Keep in mind that the temple tends to be crowded on normal days, as well as during poya holidays and weekends. An interesting fact is that the place remains open for worship even at night. ☀️ I would advise against visiting the temple at noon when the sun is scorching hot. It's better to plan your visit during cooler times of the day to fully enjoy the experience. 🚮 As always, please remember to take back whatever you bring with you. Let's help maintain the cleanliness and sanctity of this environment by leaving no trace behind. 👍 If you found this review helpful, please mark it as such to encourage more elaborate reviews that assist others in discovering and appreciating wonderful places like Athugala! ✅
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shani L. 1 year ago on Google • 114 reviews
    🌸A narrow road is there to go up but the road condition is good. Can take vehicles near.🌸 Then you you have only around 200m walk to the temple.🌸 Better to go early morning.🌸can have a wonderful view in Kurunagala town.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sashira S. 4 years ago on Google
    Historical buddist place..
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Damith F. 1 year ago on Google • 188 reviews
    You can easily reach the place using the carpet road. You have to park your vehicles at the car park and climb up to the place. It is situated in a great view in this busy town. The place is so calm and religious where you'll be able to see the part of Kurunegala town.

  • 5/5 M032 V. 4 years ago on Google
    🙏🌷
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sakila D. 5 years ago on Google
    Highest point in Kurunegala Town. Amazing View. Easy to climb. Beautiful Place.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hasitha P. 3 months ago on Google • 81 reviews New
    My visit to Athugala Viharaya was a spiritually enriching experience, leaving an indelible mark on my journey through Sri Lanka. The serene ambiance and breathtaking surroundings made it a sanctuary of tranquility. The awe-inspiring Buddha statue carved into the rock face stood as a testament to the island's rich cultural heritage and artistic prowess. The intricate details and the sheer magnitude of the sculpture left me in awe, emphasizing the dedication and craftsmanship of the ancient artisans. Climbing the stairs to the top provided not only a physical challenge but also a rewarding panoramic view of the surrounding landscape (if needed, one can drive in on to the top of the rock). The sense of peace and spiritual connection at the summit was truly profound. The meticulously maintained grounds and the respectful atmosphere fostered a sense of reverence, creating a space for quiet contemplation. Athugala Viharaya is more than a historical site; it's a sacred haven that offers visitors a chance to connect with both nature and spirituality. For those seeking a blend of cultural exploration and spiritual reflection, Athugala Viharaya stands as a must-visit destination. Its unique charm and historical significance make it a treasure trove for those exploring the cultural richness of Sri Lanka.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 himal p. 2 months ago on Google • 92 reviews New
    A must place to visit if you come to the Kurunegala town. A serene and spiritually enriching environment that you don't feel like leaving. There is a very short climb but not difficult.

  • 5/5 Nalaka J. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful place with amazing views. Less crowded on normal days except on poya days and weekends. The place was open for worshipping even at night. There is a car park with a considerable space. People can reach the rock from front and back. For elderly people, it's easy to use the back end road to reach the top of the rock from a vehicle and then walk for 100m to reach the statue.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Chandula B. 2 years ago on Google
    Best view point.try to visit their at night you can see wonderful view
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vikasitha R. 1 year ago on Google
    Athugala viharaya is a temple in kurunagala. Easily accessible from kurunagala town. Visitors can either climb the rock or use the carpet road which lead near to temple. Road conditions are good when I visit the place on May 2022. Parking available for free near the temple. Entrance is free. It is very calming at the top of the rock, there's a nice view of kurunagala town. You can also visit ranthaliya wewa (wewa rawuma) which is nearby.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Saranga K. 1 year ago on Google
    There is a very prominent large rock that surrounds and dominates the town. This is known as Atagala or Elephant Rock. It really looks like a tusk elephant is sleeping. Height is up to 325 m (1,066 ft). A large Buddha statue has been created on top of the rock. There is a temple here. This is the Athugala Rajamahavihara. When you climb Athagala, you can see the whole Kurunegala.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 kosala hasitha s. 4 years ago on Google
    The best place to spend an evening in kurunegala with the sighting of amazing panaromic view of whole city. Try to see the sunset here.it will be unforgetable expierience.but never forget that u are in a place of a worship. Be silent and feel it on best way.parking space is not so enough when the place is crowded.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Anton 4 years ago on Google
    Located in lovely spot
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lakmal P. 1 year ago on Google
    Mind Relaz Place in Kurunagala There are have Police People They Not Allowed couple this place. But lord buddhist never said that. Please get action ti it anyone.. Any People can Go this place.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chameera M. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place in srilanka
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 KOSALA P. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 deshan b. 3 years ago on Google
    Kurunegala, located at a distance of 84 km from Colombo, is considered to be the capital of the North Western Province. The city is located at an altitude of 116 meters above sea level. Located in the heart of the city, Ethagala (Athugala) is well known as a symbol of the city of Kurunegala. This rock is 316 meters high and spreads in the shape of an elephant. Many believe that this rock gave rise to the name Kurunegala. Athugala is a place of natural beauty as well as historical value.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dhanushka J. 4 years ago on Google
    Picturesque place showing greenery mixed with the town building.A calm place and the Lord Buddha's Statue adds more beauty to the place
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eranda J. 4 years ago on Google
    This is a real Scenic and picturesque location from where you can watch a panoramic view of the Kuranegala town. The large Buddha's statue adds a real value to the city. you can travel by vehicles to the top. Vehicle parking can be done a parking lot a bit down to the top.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Supun S. 11 months ago on Google
    There is a temple on the top of the rock and also, a big Samadhi Buddha statue and Most beautiful place to visit around the kurunegala in the morning or evening time.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hasnaka A. 3 years ago on Google
    A most religious temple in Kurunegala town. Can see about 270 degrees view of Kurunegala town. As i heard when there is no mist you can see Sri padaya, Knuckles mountain range, Pidurangala rock from various direction. If you are coming by your own vehicle you can drive up to the top and park your vehicle at the car park. There is considerable wind
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Janith J. 2 years ago on Google
    Athugala also called as ethagala is a very splendid rock that overlooks the Kurunegala town in Sri Lanka. Athugala is situated just around 1km away from Kurunegala town. The rock gets the name “athugala” due to its shape of an elephant. This is "the" iconic landmark of Kurunegala. You could select two ways to reach to the top of the rock. Either following the steps in the rock or riding your vehicle to the top. Walk to the top of the rock is little tiring and take around 15-20mins, but you'll forget that by watching around. Sometimes, you can find few monkey groups in the middle of the rock. So, it is always better to watch out your stuff. As you reach to the top of the rock you could see the temple (Athugala Viharaya) and massive snow white Buddha statue. This temple houses to the huge 88 ft Buddha statue.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Buddhika J. 5 years ago on Google
    This place is a hidden gem in Kurunegala town. There is a carpeted road to the hill top through greenish forest reserve. You can park the vehicle in front of the entrance to the large Buddha statue and enjoy the magnificent view of surrounding area including Kurunegala town, lake and beautiful mountain ranges. This is a good place to visit and relax your mind if you are travelling through Kurunegala.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 DAMITH C. 2 years ago on Google
    Kurunegala District is in the North-Western Province of Sri Lanka, locating it in the middle of the country. Many of the tourist destinations of these districts are based on mountain summits, caves, and sacred temples. Athugala is one of the prominent landmarks of Kurunegala. The locals use the name of Athugalpuraya to identify the town. The rock has derived its name as the rock is in the shape of an elephant and is 325 meters tall. There is a myth of the local in the vicinity that the rock has obtained such formation due to animals turning into rocks not being able to withstand the severe drought. There is a temple on the top of the rock and also, a big Samadhi Buddha statue overlooking the city of Kurunegala though there is a temple on the top of the cliff, individuals from many faiths visiting the temple to enjoy the hike and the adventurous journey towards the top of the mountain. One could use the stairs to reach the top of the mountain or could use the vehicle to climb up. Hiking your journey to the top of the mountain is more rewarding than using the car to reach the top. Hiking towards the top of the hill is preferred by many young and old individuals. The best time to start hiking up the rock is during or after the sunset, as it would give a panoramic view of the Kurunegala city, with the sun setting off coloring the sky in the shades of pink and purple, the busy lights of the vehicles begin to appear followed by the bright lights from the shops and other parts gives a breathtaking view. As you walk to the top of the mountain, you would be able to get a clear glimpse of the snow-white Buddha statue, which is seen as floating from afar.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Supun B. 2 years ago on Google
    A must visit place in Kurunegala city. Beautiful view 😍🤩
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Venura De S. 3 months ago on Google • 48 reviews New
    It is one of the most peaceful places in Sri Lanka with a lot of greenery around it. My recommendation to all foreigners is to visit this wonderful place and receive blessings from Lord Buddha at this wonderful place. Drive carefully

  • 5/5 Tharindu N. 3 months ago on Google • 45 reviews New
    This is a beautiful temple i have ever seen yet.. We can see beautiful sunset.. Very peaceful place.. It is situated in kurunagala town.. Parking is available... Highly recommended this place for buddhist peoples..

  • 5/5 Nalan D. 4 months ago on Google • 27 reviews
    A most beautiful and religious place at kurunegala Town.has A marvelos view on the rock.The idol of Lord Buddha add a beautiful whole town To reach the top of Athugala, visitors have two options: ascend by climbing the stairs or use a vehicle for convenience. While the vehicle may provide a quicker ascent, many individuals, both young and old, prefer the adventurous journey of hiking to the summit. Hiking towards the top of the hill allows one to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and experience the surrounding environment more intimately. The best time to visit Embarking on the hike up Athugala Rock during or after sunset offers a truly magical experience. As the sun sets, painting the sky in shades of pink and purple, the panoramic view of Kurunegala city unfolds before your eyes. The once bustling lights of vehicles and vibrant shops illuminate the cityscape, creating a breathtaking vista. This time of day adds an extra layer of enchantment to the journey and rewards hikers with a truly memorable sight. The Athugala Rock Temple offers a unique blend of natural wonders, religious significance, and adventure. The myth surrounding its formation, the temple perched atop the rock, and the magnificent Samadhi Buddha statue all contribute to its allure. Whether you choose to hike or take the vehicle, the journey to the top promises to be an unforgettable experience. Witnessing the panoramic view of Kurunegala city at sunset and encountering the ethereal snow-white Buddha statue will leave you in awe of the beauty that unfolds at Athugala Rock Temple.

  • 5/5 Chamara M. 9 months ago on Google • 20 reviews
    Athugala Rock Temple has obtained its name as the stone is an elephant appearance and is 325 meters high. The locals in the vicinity myth that the rock has formed due to animals turning into rocks inadequate to withstand the harsh dryness. There is a temple on the summit of the rock and a giant Samadhi Buddha statue overlooking the city of Kurunegala. However, there is a temple on the top of the cliff, people from many faiths visiting the temple to enjoy the hike and the adventurous journey towards the top of the peak.

  • 5/5 kushan k. 5 years ago on Google
    Athugala also called as ethagala is a very splendid rock that overlooks the Kurunegala town in Sri Lanka. Athugala is situated just around 1km away from Kurunegala town. The rock gets the name “athugala” due to its shape of an elephant. This is "the" iconic landmark of Kurunegala. You could select two ways to reach to the top of the rock. Either following the steps in the rock or riding your vehicle to the top. Walk to the top of the rock is little tiring and take around 15-20mins, but you'll forget that by watching around. Sometimes, you can find few monkey groups in the middle of the rock. So, it is always better to watch out your stuff. As you reach to the top of the rock you could see the temple (Athugala Viharaya) and massive snow white Buddha statue. This temple houses to the huge 88 ft Buddha statue. The great bare rock mountain provides a perfect setting for the Buddha statue. The night view of the Buddha statue from Kurunegala town is simply a breath taking view. Only the snow white Buddha statue can be seen in the sky while the whole surrounding is in dark. It is like the Buddha statue is floating in the sky. It is a worth visit view and these views make the place memorable. If you are to get the perfect view you need to start climbing the rock in the evening. Stay there at the top of the rock till it gets little dark. The view of Kurunagela city from the top of the rock is panoramic and a treat to the eyes. If you are passing the busy Kurunegala town athugala is a must visit place. Also, if you are to say you visited Kurunegala you need to climb athugala.

  • 5/5 Bandula H. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Kurǣnǣgala (Original) කුරෑනෑගල

  • 5/5 Indeewari P. 2 months ago on Google • 13 reviews New
    Athugala is one of the most prominent landmarks in the Kurunegala area. Locals use the name Athugalpura to identify the town. The rock is shaped like an elephant and is 325 meters high, hence the name. There is a temple at the top of the rock, and a large statue of Samadhi Buddha overlooking the city. One can use the stairs to reach the top of the hill or use the vehicle to climb up.

  • 5/5 sanoj b. 9 months ago on Google
    Beautiful place and calm environment. Can see the town perfectly..

  • 5/5 Ishanka H. 3 years ago on Google
    You can have panoramic views all around from here. There’s a carpet road till the top and have a parking area as well. The Buddha statue is really huge. You can see good part of kurunegala town, lake and the newly building highway as well. Great for an evening outing.

  • 5/5 Niroshan Udith B. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful temple with an amazing view.

  • 5/5 Waruna S. 9 months ago on Google
    You can see the entire view of Kurnegala city from here. Very calming and relaxing. There are two ways to get there, If you have a Car, van, tuk tuk or bike you can go to the top of the mountain by that without an issue. But if you don't have, You have to make them on foot. There is another way for walkers.

  • 5/5 Thisarangi N P. 8 months ago on Google
    It s a most peasfull temple in sri lanka.kurunegala town full view place & looking marvellous sunset in evening...if u going this place your brain gonna cool..come & visit this place.....✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️

  • 5/5 Sandun U. 1 year ago on Google
    A buddhist temple with iconic statue of lord Buddha. Situated on the Athugala - a rock formation in the middle of the town of Kurunegala. The access road is lies on the 100m from the town centre to the road of Dambulla Road. The road to the rock is narrow and very steep. Only light vehicles can access easily. If it is not sunny you can walk to the top. It is advised to go on morning or in evening. Because in afternoon the sunlight is very harsh. You can see the whole Kurunegala beautifully to the top of the rock and there's a really cool breeze all the time. It is advised to go here. Just follow every rule same as entering other temples in Sri Lanka.

  • 5/5 Rs m. 1 year ago on Google
    A very attractive place. A must visit place for tourists. Also, be polite as it is a religious place. Drive carefully because of a dangerous hill slope. Be very careful when going up. When you go up, you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The city and surroundings look very beautiful. Even more beautiful at night. It is the responsibility of all visitors to keep this place clean.

  • 5/5 Hashan S. 2 years ago on Google
    Must visit in Kurunegala Best to be visited in the evening as the sun goes down. Good view of the town. And a giant Buddha statue in samadhi pose. Very calm and quiet place to be

  • 5/5 chandana s. 2 years ago on Google
    Such a womserful creation ..

  • 5/5 Dhananjaya D. 2 years ago on Google
    Great place to take rest

  • 5/5 Tharanga A. 1 year ago on Google
    Most beautiful place to visit around the kurunegala in the morning or evening time

  • 5/5 Kirah 2 years ago on Google
    What a view! If you are visiting Kurunegala, you must visit here too! Try to get to the top around 4 - 5 PM and you can see the beautiful sunset. Parking is available at the top of the hill, make sure to drive slowly if you are going with Google Maps, you can easily miss the route on a one-way road!

  • 5/5 Danushka L. 1 year ago on Google
    Atugala viharaya Buddhist temple Claim and quite very beautiful place with great buddha statue

  • 5/5 Alex I. 2 years ago on Google
    A buddhist temple. But certainly not a place just for Buddhists. Everyone can enjoy an extremely beautiful panoramic view of the Kurunegala city from the top of the rock. You can get atop by any land vehicle as well as hiking to the top. There are no public facilities like washrooms, cafeterias etc ao be prepared for such inconveniences. The temple and the view are the only things that are on offer at the top. But you won't be disappointed. I would recommend walking up to the top along the road rhather than climbing steps because of the rich feelings you can get when walking through the tree covered road. Enjoy.

  • 5/5 Oshila G. 2 years ago on Google
    went on a night. it was so peaceful. all the way up from the busy town, can see 180' plus view from that place. so amazing. windy as well. a Buddhist temple, dress and behave accordingly. you can go by the vehicle almost to the top. parking is somewhat small, so check that if you are going by a vehicle.

  • 5/5 Achintha M. 3 years ago on Google
    ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤..............................................................................................................................................................

  • 5/5 Yoroshiku L. 4 years ago on Google
    Claim

  • 5/5 D.A.Lasantha F. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place ..

  • 4/5 Huta patas හුට �. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Very beautiful (Original) ඉතාම ලස්සනයි

  • 4/5 SL kavi e. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Parana medavachiya (Original) Parana medavachiya

  • 5/5 Usith C. 3 years ago on Google
    Historical , Traditional , Amazing place

  • 5/5 therider_______________ 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful vibes

  • 5/5 Kavinga K. 3 years ago on Google
    Calm Place to visit. Can see whole Kurunagala Town from the top. Entrance way through trees makes you cool.

  • 5/5 Gihan M. 3 years ago on Google
    😍

  • 5/5 Jagath Sapumal - G. 3 years ago on Google
    Wonderfull ... nice view❤️❤️

  • 5/5 Chandana D. 4 years ago on Google
    🙏🙏🙏

  • 5/5 Lahiru S R. 4 years ago on Google
    One most popular player in Kurunagala. Situated in Kurunagala town it self. You can go near to the temple by the car. From top of the rock there is a marvelous view of the town. Better to go there in afternoon or at night.

  • 5/5 Sriyantha pushpakumara P. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place can reach upto summit by vehicle

  • 5/5 Rojitha Y. 4 years ago on Google
    Peacefull, Love this place

  • 5/5 Sasanka W. 6 years ago on Google
    Great religious place, great view of entire Kurunagala City.

  • 5/5 Chamika K. 4 years ago on Google
    This is very valuable place for Buddhist people. Very beautiful place.

  • 5/5 Dilan R. 5 years ago on Google
    Provides a beautiful view of the Kurunegala town.Can reach the top with a vehicle.A place must be visited if you are travelling around Kurunegala.

  • 5/5 Shanan I. 5 years ago on Google
    Very Religious place. Most of Buddhist people love to go there. As well as nice view of the town. Not a 360 one. But you can see the most of the town area. There is a car park. You can reach to top and walk the rest.

  • 5/5 Tharaka D. 5 years ago on Google
    Must visit in Kurunegala Best to be visited in the evening as the sun goes down. Good view of the town. And a giant Buddha statue in samadhi pose. Good place to sit down on the rock and rest

  • 5/5 swati c. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing place and statue😍

  • 5/5 Thilina K. 4 years ago on Google
    very calm nice place to visit

  • 5/5 Surendra F. 4 years ago on Google
    Everything is below the Buddha

  • 5/5 Aruna S. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Come to see the talent of our artist (Original) අපේ කලා කරුවාගේ හැකියවන් දැක ගැනීමට පැමිණියෙමු

  • 3/5 Hasintha W. 5 years ago on Google
    An easy climb. Steps are engraved in the stone up to some point. Views are nice.

  • 5/5 Rox Teka p. 4 years ago on Google
    Buddhist statue

  • 5/5 Sandun R. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place with a scenic view

  • 4/5 Suneth J. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice and calm place. Ideal fo meditation

  • 5/5 Raveen S. 4 years ago on Google
    Enchanted....

  • 5/5 Sumedha J. 4 years ago on Google
    Ah, the views are spectacular!

  • 5/5 Pubudu W. 4 years ago on Google
    There is the lord buddha's statue on the Athugala rock. In that place we can see the entire Kurunegala city beautifully.

  • 5/5 Kusal P. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place

  • 5/5 Sahan B. 4 years ago on Google
    beautiful place with good view of kurunegala city

  • 5/5 Total Business Solutions L. 4 years ago on Google
    It is verry beautiful place.. you can see whole kurunegala city from here. If you like to see nice sun set you better go there befor 5.30pm. You will never forget the seanery.

  • 5/5 Viraj K. 4 years ago on Google
    Athugal Kanda Temple locates on top of the ancient city Kurunegala (Athugalpura).This is an ideal place to visit in your vacation.Two ways to reach:one is round the road which has some distance to get onto top but you’ll enjoy lot as it goes through a calm jungle.It is better if you take a walk rather than using vehicles on the road as it is so cool experience,but keep an eye on your kids since there are monkeys in the jungle.The other way is hiking the rock but it will be a hard one in sunny days.Please save this place,do not leave your any thing.I have to ask this since there were empty liquor bottles and food packs thrown on the way by people.Why these people ruin their heritages by themselves??? Use your own brain to think and maintain common sense please.

  • 5/5 Kaniya 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place❤️

  • 5/5 Dammika H. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place

  • 5/5 Isuru S L. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful Unique and secret place


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