A serene forest monastery on rocky outcrops just outside Ampara, dotted with ancient ruins and a white stupa amid the jungle.

Overview

Buddhangala is a tranquil forest monastery set across a series of rocky outcrops about 7 km from Ampara town, spread over a wooded reserve of some 1,280 acres. A path winds up through the trees past ancient monastic ruins, ponds and boulders to a gleaming white stupa on the summit rock, from where there are wide views over the surrounding forest. Peacocks, monkeys and birds are common, and the atmosphere of quiet meditation makes it a rewarding contrast to the district's beaches and safaris.

History

The site is believed to date back to the ancient Digamadulla kingdom, traditionally founded in the region in the early historic period. After long centuries of neglect, overgrown by jungle, it was rediscovered in 1964 by the Venerable Kalutara Dhammananda Thero, who cleared the ruins and re-established it as a working forest hermitage with the help of local Buddhist communities.