A hidden gem near Mihintale, offering peaceful landscapes and ancient monastery ruins to explore.

Kaludiya Pokuna

A hidden gem near Mihintale, offering peaceful landscapes and ancient monastery ruins to explore.

Kaludiya Pokuna

Know before you go

Location

Kaludiya Pokuna in Kandalama, near Dambulla, Matale District, Central Province, Sri Lanka.

Accessibility
  • By Car: From Dambulla town, drive northwest on the A9 road towards Kandy.
  • By Public Transport: Buses from Dambulla to Kandy pass by the Kaludiya Pokuna stop.
  • By Tuk-Tuk: Hiring a tuk-tuk from Dambulla offers a more direct route. (Costs between 500-1000 LKR and takes about 10-15 minutes.)
Opening Hours

Time – 08.00 AM to 5.00 PM You can visit.

Best Time to visit
  • Weather: The best time to visit is during the dry season (from December to March) .
  • Morning Visits: Arriving early in the morning can help you avoid the midday heat and the crowd, offering a peaceful and more serene experience.
Entrance Fee

Entrance Free.

Amenities & Facilities

Bring a bottle of water as there are limited places to buy refreshments around the site.

  • Parking: There are parking spaces at the base for those traveling by car.
  • Guides: Local guides are available at the entrance if you wish to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
  • Restrooms: Basic facilities such as restrooms are available at the base.
  • No Food Stalls: It’s best to bring water and snacks with you as there are no food vendors at the site. 
Travel Tips & Advice
  • Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for walking. 
  • Dress modestly as it’s an archaeological site, and Sri Lanka has a culture of respect for sacred places.
  • Comfortable clothing suited to warm weather is recommended.
  • Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
  • Stay on designated paths. 
  • Avoid littering in the area to help preserve the beauty and cleanliness of the site.

Kaludiya Pokuna in Kandalama is another stunning location in Sri Lanka, distinct from the Kaludiya Pokuna in Anuradhapura. This one is located near the town of Dambulla, in the central part of the island. Kaludiya Pokuna, situated in the Kandalama area, is an ancient water reservoir surrounded by lush jungle and historical ruins. It is part of the ancient Buddhist monastery complex, believed to have been used by monks for meditation. The name “Kaludiya Pokuna” translates to “Black Water Pond,” similar to the one in Anuradhapura, likely due to the dark appearance of the water. This site is famous for its peaceful, serene atmosphere, making it a great spot for visitors who want to explore the natural beauty of Sri Lanka while experiencing its rich history. The area is surrounded by forest, making it a great place for nature walks, birdwatching, and exploring the ancient ruins of the monastery. 

Historical significance

Kaludiya Pokuna in Kandalama, near Dambulla, holds notable historical and archaeological significance, particularly in relation to ancient Buddhist monasticism and Sri Lanka’s early civilization. Kaludiya Pokuna is believed to have been a part of a Buddhist monastic complex during ancient times, possibly dating back to the Anuradhapura period (around 2nd century BCE to 10th century CE). The site is associated with monks who used it for meditation and spiritual practices in a secluded environment.

The ruins found around the pond, including stone structures, pathways, and meditation platforms, suggest it was a peaceful place for monks to live and meditate, away from the distractions of society. The pond was crucial for the monks’ daily rituals, water collection, and also symbolic of purity and meditation.

The site also connects to the broader spiritual traditions of Sri Lankan Buddhism. It is believed that many Buddhist monks from ancient times used these natural settings to withdraw from worldly life and achieve enlightenment. Kaludiya Pokuna is considered an important part of the monastic tradition, offering insights into how monks lived, prayed, and meditated.

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