Explore ancient caves at Sithulpawwa Temple
Yala, Sri Lanka • 
Must Do
Must Do
Best months to visit
Jan, Feb, Apr
22°C – 30°C, january offers warm and dry conditions, making it ideal for outdoor activities, high crowds, peak season
22°C – 30°C, january offers warm and dry conditions, making it ideal for outdoor activities, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Steep steps and uneven terrain; not wheelchair accessible.
Steep steps and uneven terrain; not wheelchair accessible.
Value for money
Medium
Mixed reviews on cost, but experience is generally positive.
Mixed reviews on cost, but experience is generally positive.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Spiritual Escape
Couples found the temple a peaceful retreat, perfect for a romantic, spiritual journey.
Breathtaking Views
The panoramic views from the stupa were considered stunning and ideal for couples.
Historical Ambiance
Couples appreciated the temple's rich history and the ancient cave paintings.
Challenging Climb
The steep steps to the stupa were a concern for some, especially in the heat.
Rough Roads
The drive through the park was bumpy and could be difficult for some vehicles.
Unclear Pricing
Entrance fees were confusing; couples were unsure of the actual cost.
How to book
ViatorRECOMMENDED
Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Access
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
2h - 3h
4.8
from
USD 45
per_person
BOOK
GetyourguidePremium Experience with Hotel Pickup
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before
4h - 5h
4.9
from
USD 70
per_person
BOOK
KlookPrivate Full-Day Tour
Non-refundable
8h - 10h
5.0
from
USD 120
per_person
BOOK
Hours of operation
Monday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
Embark on a virtual tour of Sithulpawwa Rock Temple.
Discover the highlights of Sithulpawwa Rock Temple.
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
25-30°C
December sees a decrease in rainfall as the northeast monsoon subsides, leading to more favorable weather conditions.
December sees a decrease in rainfall as the northeast monsoon subsides, leading to more favorable weather conditions.
Open
No significant restrictions; however, it's advisable to book accommodations in advance due to higher demand.
No significant restrictions; however, it's advisable to book accommodations in advance due to higher demand.
Recommended
With improving weather and the temple fully accessible, December is a recommended time to visit Sithulpawwa Temple, though increased tourist activity and higher prices should be anticipated.
With improving weather and the temple fully accessible, December is a recommended time to visit Sithulpawwa Temple, though increased tourist activity and higher prices should be anticipated.
January
HIGH
22-30°C
January offers warm and dry conditions, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
January offers warm and dry conditions, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Open
Due to high demand, early booking is recommended to secure accommodations and tours.
Due to high demand, early booking is recommended to secure accommodations and tours.
Recommended
January is an excellent time to visit Sithulpawwa Temple, with favorable weather conditions. However, expect larger crowds and higher prices due to peak tourist season.
January is an excellent time to visit Sithulpawwa Temple, with favorable weather conditions. However, expect larger crowds and higher prices due to peak tourist season.
February
HIGH
22-31°C
February continues with warm and dry weather, suitable for exploring outdoor attractions.
February continues with warm and dry weather, suitable for exploring outdoor attractions.
Open
High demand during this month necessitates advance reservations for accommodations and tours.
High demand during this month necessitates advance reservations for accommodations and tours.
Recommended
Visiting in February offers excellent weather for exploring Sithulpawwa Temple, but be prepared for higher prices and crowds typical of the peak season.
Visiting in February offers excellent weather for exploring Sithulpawwa Temple, but be prepared for higher prices and crowds typical of the peak season.
March
MEDIUM
23-32°C
March brings slightly warmer temperatures with minimal rainfall, maintaining favorable conditions for outdoor activities.
March brings slightly warmer temperatures with minimal rainfall, maintaining favorable conditions for outdoor activities.
Open
While availability improves, it's still advisable to book in advance to ensure preferred accommodations.
While availability improves, it's still advisable to book in advance to ensure preferred accommodations.
Recommended
March offers a balance between good weather and reduced crowds, making it a favorable time to visit Sithulpawwa Temple.
March offers a balance between good weather and reduced crowds, making it a favorable time to visit Sithulpawwa Temple.
How to get there
Car
Recommended
Private cars can access Sithulpawwa Temple via Sithulpawwa Road, approximately 25 km from Tissamaharama. A vehicle with good clearance, such as an SUV, is recommended due to gravel roads.
Taxi
Recommended
Taxis can be hired from nearby towns like Tissamaharama or Kataragama for direct transport to Sithulpawwa Temple. Taxi services offer transfers and day tours.
Bus
Buses travel to Tissamaharama, the nearest major bus station. From there, taxis or tuk-tuks are required for the remainder of the journey to Sithulpawwa Temple.
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