Visit forest monastery at Rakkhiththa Kanda Aranya Senasanaya
Ella, Sri Lanka • 
Underrated
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.
How to book
ViatorRECOMMENDED
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2h - 3h
4.8
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GetyourguidePremium Experience with Hotel Pickup
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before
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KlookPrivate Full-Day Tour
Non-refundable
8h - 10h
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USD 120
per_person
BOOK
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
December
MEDIUM
16-28°C
Pleasant temperatures with decreasing rainfall; average temperatures range from 16°C to 28°C, with a 45% chance of rain.
Pleasant temperatures with decreasing rainfall; average temperatures range from 16°C to 28°C, with a 45% chance of rain.
Open
Higher demand may require advance bookings.
Higher demand may require advance bookings.
Recommended
December in Ella offers pleasant temperatures and reduced rainfall, attracting more tourists and marking the beginning of the peak season. Prices may be higher, and advance bookings are recommended.
December in Ella offers pleasant temperatures and reduced rainfall, attracting more tourists and marking the beginning of the peak season. Prices may be higher, and advance bookings are recommended.
January
HIGH
18-28°C
Moderately hot with occasional rainfall.
Moderately hot with occasional rainfall.
Open
Accommodation may be limited; advance booking recommended.
Accommodation may be limited; advance booking recommended.
Recommended
January offers pleasant weather suitable for visiting Rakkhiththa Kanda Aranya Senasanaya. However, it's peak tourist season, leading to higher prices and crowded attractions. Booking accommodations in advance is advisable.
January offers pleasant weather suitable for visiting Rakkhiththa Kanda Aranya Senasanaya. However, it's peak tourist season, leading to higher prices and crowded attractions. Booking accommodations in advance is advisable.
February
MEDIUM
18-28°C
Warm temperatures with less frequent rainfall.
Warm temperatures with less frequent rainfall.
Open
More accommodation options available compared to January.
More accommodation options available compared to January.
Recommended
February provides favorable weather conditions with reduced crowds and more reasonable prices, making it a good time to visit the monastery.
February provides favorable weather conditions with reduced crowds and more reasonable prices, making it a good time to visit the monastery.
March
MEDIUM
19-30°C
Warmer temperatures with increased chances of rain.
Warmer temperatures with increased chances of rain.
Open
Accommodations may start to fill up; early booking is recommended.
Accommodations may start to fill up; early booking is recommended.
Recommended
March sees warmer weather and a rise in visitors due to local holidays. Planning ahead for accommodations is advisable.
March sees warmer weather and a rise in visitors due to local holidays. Planning ahead for accommodations is advisable.
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