A Sacred Spring with a Rich Legacy Located just 1 km from Laggala town in the picturesque region of Matale, Kiri Amma Ulpatha is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka's central highlands. Easily accessible via the A9 road (turning off at Naula Junction) or the scenic B274 road after passing the famous Riverston area, this mystical spring draws visitors from near and far, not only for its natural beauty but also for its deep-rooted cultural significance. Kiri Amma, a revered Hindu goddess also known as Paththini, is associated with purity, health, and prosperity. The term Ulpotha translates to "water spring" in Sinhala, and this particular spring is considered one of the most powerful and sacred sites in the region. According to local folklore, the waters of Kiri Amma Ulpatha possess divine properties. It is believed that if you make a wish here, it is destined to come true. A unique and long-standing ritual at the spring involved visitors placing a coin on a betel leaf and letting it float in the pond, symbolizing their wish. Over the years, thousands of coins have accumulated in the spring, each one carrying a heartfelt wish. However, due to the potential environmental damage caused by this practice, the authorities have now banned the coin-floating ritual. Visitors now honor the tradition by tying a coin to a piece of white cloth, called a Panduru, and hanging it near the spring, a gesture still believed to bring blessings. Kiri Amma Ulpatha is also steeped in enchanting folk tales. One of the most famous stories is that of the golden reaping hooks, which are said to emerge from the spring to help harvest the nearby paddy fields. The spring, now a devala (a place of worship), remains a vital and revered source of water. Remarkably, even during times of drought, the water level at Kiri Amma Ulpatha never diminishes, a testament to its sacred and enduring power. Today, the site continues to attract pilgrims and tourists alike, eager to witness the enchanting spring and immerse themselves in the deep spiritual energy of the area. Whether you're captivated by the folklore or simply looking for a serene, nature-filled escape, Kiri Amma Ulpatha offers a truly unique and memorable experience in the heart of Sri Lanka's highlands.
A Sacred Spring with a Rich Legacy Located just 1 km from Laggala town in the picturesque region of Matale, Kiri Amma Ulpatha is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka's central highlands. Easily accessible via the A9 road (turning off at Naula Junction) or the scenic B274 road after passing the famous Riverston area, this mystical spring draws visitors from near and far, not only for its natural beauty but also for its deep-rooted cultural significance. Kiri Amma, a revered Hindu goddess also known as Paththini, is associated with purity, health, and prosperity. The term Ulpotha translates to "water spring" in Sinhala, and this particular spring is considered one of the most powerful and sacred sites in the region. According to local folklore, the waters of Kiri Amma Ulpatha possess divine properties. It is believed that if you make a wish here, it is destined to come true. A unique and long-standing ritual at the spring involved visitors placing a coin on a betel leaf and letting it float in the pond, symbolizing their wish. Over the years, thousands of coins have accumulated in the spring, each one carrying a heartfelt wish. However, due to the potential environmental damage caused by this practice, the authorities have now banned the coin-floating ritual. Visitors now honor the tradition by tying a coin to a piece of white cloth, called a Panduru, and hanging it near the spring, a gesture still believed to bring blessings. Kiri Amma Ulpatha is also steeped in enchanting folk tales. One of the most famous stories is that of the golden reaping hooks, which are said to emerge from the spring to help harvest the nearby paddy fields. The spring, now a devala (a place of worship), remains a vital and revered source of water. Remarkably, even during times of drought, the water level at Kiri Amma Ulpatha never diminishes, a testament to its sacred and enduring power. Today, the site continues to attract pilgrims and tourists alike, eager to witness the enchanting spring and immerse themselves in the deep spiritual energy of the area. Whether you're captivated by the folklore or simply looking for a serene, nature-filled escape, Kiri Amma Ulpatha offers a truly unique and memorable experience in the heart of Sri Lanka's highlands.
Kiri Amma Ulpatha, Laggala, Sri Lanka.
No specific hours, but daytime visits are recommended for safety and better visibility.
December to March (dry season) for comfortable travel and exploration.
No official entrance fee; donations to local caretakers or temples are appreciated.
A Sacred Spring with a Rich Legacy
Located just 1 km from Laggala town in the picturesque region of Matale, Kiri Amma Ulpatha is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Easily accessible via the A9 road (turning off at Naula Junction) or the scenic B274 road after passing the famous Riverston area, this mystical spring draws visitors from near and far, not only for its natural beauty but also for its deep-rooted cultural significance.
Kiri Amma, a revered Hindu goddess also known as Paththini, is associated with purity, health, and prosperity. The term Ulpotha translates to “water spring” in Sinhala, and this particular spring is considered one of the most powerful and sacred sites in the region. According to local folklore, the waters of Kiri Amma Ulpatha possess divine properties. It is believed that if you make a wish here, it is destined to come true.
A unique and long-standing ritual at the spring involved visitors placing a coin on a betel leaf and letting it float in the pond, symbolizing their wish. Over the years, thousands of coins have accumulated in the spring, each one carrying a heartfelt wish. However, due to the potential environmental damage caused by this practice, the authorities have now banned the coin-floating ritual. Visitors now honor the tradition by tying a coin to a piece of white cloth, called a Panduru, and hanging it near the spring, a gesture still believed to bring blessings.
Kiri Amma Ulpatha is also steeped in enchanting folk tales. One of the most famous stories is that of the golden reaping hooks, which are said to emerge from the spring to help harvest the nearby paddy fields. The spring, now a devala (a place of worship), remains a vital and revered source of water. Remarkably, even during times of drought, the water level at Kiri Amma Ulpatha never diminishes, a testament to its sacred and enduring power.
Today, the site continues to attract pilgrims and tourists alike, eager to witness the enchanting spring and immerse themselves in the deep spiritual energy of the area. Whether you’re captivated by the folklore or simply looking for a serene, nature-filled escape, Kiri Amma Ulpatha offers a truly unique and memorable experience in the heart of Sri Lanka’s highlands.
