Wedihiti Kanda: The Hill Above Kataragama
Challenging · Monaragala District · Uva Province
Wedihiti Kanda, the "Mountain of the Veddas", rises above the sacred town of Kataragama. In Vedda tradition it was the home of the Kataragama deity, who married Valli, a Vedda chief's daughter, and lived here before moving to the present temple. A long stairway climbs to the shrine on its summit.
What you’ll walk through
The climb is a long, steep stairway to a shrine on the top, with views out over the Yala plains. Pilgrims make the climb alongside a visit to the main Kataragama temple below. A vehicle route is also reported.
Our sources for the climb itself (step count, height, time) are pilgrims' and travel accounts rather than official records, so we do not quote those figures. Carry plenty of water.
Access & permits
A shrine associated with the Kataragama Devalaya. We could not confirm any ticket or fee. Dress modestly and remove shoes at the shrine.
Key landmarks & features
- The stairway - A long, steep climb to the summit.
- Summit shrine - The hilltop devalaya.
- Kataragama Devalaya - The main temple complex below.
- Yala plains - The view from the top.
When to go
Early morning; it is hot and humid by midday. The Esala festival (July-August) brings large crowds.
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