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
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.
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.
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
