Visit forest monastery at Rakkhiththa Kanda Aranya Senasanaya
Ella, Sri Lanka • 
Underrated
UnderratedElla, Sri Lanka
Underrated
Best months to visit
Jan, Apr, Dec
18°C – 28°C, moderately hot with occasional rainfall, high crowds, peak season
18°C – 28°C, moderately hot with occasional rainfall, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Access involves hiking; not wheelchair accessible.
Access involves hiking; not wheelchair accessible.
Value for money
High
Free entry, and a spiritually enriching experience.
Free entry, and a spiritually enriching experience.
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Peaceful Retreat
Couples found the monastery perfect for a tranquil escape and reflection.
Stunning Views
Travelers raved about the panoramic views from the monastery's location.
Spiritual Solitude
Couples enjoyed the serene environment, ideal for meditation and quiet time.
Challenging Climb
Some couples found the hike to the temple quite strenuous and tiring.
Limited Amenities
Couples noted the lack of facilities, such as seating, at the temple.
Remote Location
The remote location presented transportation challenges for some travelers.
Hours of operation
Monday
open - open
Tuesday
open - open
Wednesday
open - open
Thursday
open - open
Friday
open - open
Saturday
open - open
Sunday
open - open
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
April
HIGH
20-30°C
Hot temperatures with higher likelihood of rainfall.
Hot temperatures with higher likelihood of rainfall.
Open
High demand for accommodations; advance reservations are essential.
High demand for accommodations; advance reservations are essential.
Recommended
April's warm weather and festive atmosphere attract many visitors. Expect higher prices and limited availability; booking in advance is crucial.
April's warm weather and festive atmosphere attract many visitors. Expect higher prices and limited availability; booking in advance is crucial.
May
LOW
24-32°C
May marks the beginning of the Yala monsoon season, bringing increased rainfall and humidity to Ella.
May marks the beginning of the Yala monsoon season, bringing increased rainfall and humidity to Ella.
Open
Some outdoor activities may be limited due to weather conditions.
Some outdoor activities may be limited due to weather conditions.
Not recommended
Visiting in May offers a quieter experience, but be prepared for wet weather and potential disruptions to outdoor plans.
Visiting in May offers a quieter experience, but be prepared for wet weather and potential disruptions to outdoor plans.
June
LOW
23-31°C
June continues with the Yala monsoon, resulting in frequent rain showers and cooler temperatures.
June continues with the Yala monsoon, resulting in frequent rain showers and cooler temperatures.
Open
Access to certain areas may be restricted during heavy rains.
Access to certain areas may be restricted during heavy rains.
Not recommended
While the landscape is lush and green, the heavy rains in June can hinder travel plans and outdoor activities.
While the landscape is lush and green, the heavy rains in June can hinder travel plans and outdoor activities.
July
LOW
23-30°C
July experiences continued monsoon rains, though with occasional dry spells.
July experiences continued monsoon rains, though with occasional dry spells.
Open
Weather conditions may affect travel and outdoor activities.
Weather conditions may affect travel and outdoor activities.
Not recommended
July offers cultural experiences but comes with the challenge of unpredictable weather.
July offers cultural experiences but comes with the challenge of unpredictable weather.
How to get there
Car
Recommended
Renting a car or scooter is a popular option in Ella, allowing for flexible exploration. An International Driving Permit is required for foreigners.
Taxi
Recommended
Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available in Ella. A taxi ride to Karandagolla takes approximately 12 to 24 minutes.
Walking
Recommended
The final leg of the journey to Rakkhiththa Kanda Aranya Senasanaya involves an uphill walk or hike from the base of the trail.
Bike
Renting a bike is a popular option in Ella, allowing for flexible exploration.
Bus
Public buses operate along the Ella-Wellawaya Road. Travelers can board a bus from the Ella bus stand heading towards Wellawaya and alight at the stop for Karandagolla, followed by a 2km walk.
Train
The nearest railway station to the monastery is Ella Train Station. Upon arrival, travelers will need to hire a taxi or tuk-tuk for the remaining 13-kilometer journey.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Hiking Required
Elevator Available
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Not suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Pets
Pets not allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required
