Mulkirigala Rock Temple Visit
A half-day visit to Mulkirigala Rock Temple near Tangalle, an ancient Buddhist monastery on a rock about 200 m high, with cave shrines, reclining Buddhas and old murals on terraces linked by around 500 steps.
- Location: Tangalle
- Duration: Half Day
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best time: Open all year. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat on the steps. The south coast is driest from November to April. Poya (full moon) days are busier with local pilgrims.
About this experience
The Mulkirigala Rock Temple Visit is a half-day outing (about 2 to 3 hours on site) to Mulkirigala Raja Maha Viharaya, an ancient Buddhist cave temple on a rock rising about 200 metres above the countryside near Tangalle. It is often called the "little Sigiriya" of the south, and it is far less crowded. The climb suits travellers with moderate fitness. What is the history of Mulkirigala? The monastery is believed to date back more than 2,000 years, to around the 2nd or 3rd century BC. Monks have lived in its caves ever since, and the shrines were restored and painted in later centuries, especially during the Kandyan period. What will you see? 1. Several terraces of cave shrines, each with Buddha statues, including large reclining Buddhas. 2. Wall and ceiling murals showing scenes from the Buddha's life and Jataka stories. 3. Stupas, bo trees and old monks' dwellings along the way. 4. The summit, with views over rice paddies, coconut groves and towards the sea. How hard is the climb? Roughly 500 steps, some steep and uneven, spread over several levels. It takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the top with stops. Do I need to dress modestly? Yes. Cover shoulders and knees, and remove shoes and hats at shrines. How far is Mulkirigala from Tangalle and Mirissa? About 30 minutes from Tangalle and 1 hour from Mirissa. Why book with Figo Holidays? Figo Holidays is a Colombo-based destination management company running private tours across Sri Lanka and the Maldives. We arrange private transport, licensed guides and timings that avoid the heat and crowds, and build this experience into a tailor-made itinerary.Highlights
- Ancient rock monastery over 2
- 000 years old
- Cave shrines on several terraces
- Large reclining Buddhas
- Colourful temple murals
- About 500 steps to the summit
- Views over paddies and coast
- Quiet alternative to Sigiriya
Travel tips
Wear light clothing covering shoulders and knees, and shoes that are easy to remove. Socks help on hot rock. Bring water. Take your time on steep steps. Don't pose with your back to Buddha statues. Small donations are welcome.