From Negombo: Maligathenna & Pilikuttuwa Temple Hike

Explore the ancient Maligathenna and Pilikuttuwa temples on a guided hike from Negombo. Visit the Maligathenna Raja Maha Viharaya, hike to the summit, and discover the 99 rock caves of Pilikuttuwa.
Meet your guide in Negombo and receive a short briefing about the day's program, safety tips, and what to expect on the trails. Bottled water and light snacks are distributed.

Depart Negombo and drive through the lush villages and paddy fields of the Gampaha District. Your guide will set the historical scene, sharing stories of King Valagamba and the ancient Anuradhapura Kingdom as you approach the site.

Arrive at Maligathenna Raja Maha Viharaya, an ancient cave temple situated on the highest hill in the Gampaha District, offering 360-degree panoramic views. Drip ledges were cut into the rock surface to make the caves habitable, and many of these ancient ledges can still be seen at great heights above the temple.

Admire the prehistoric rock carvings of a dog, a bird, and the sun at the stairway entrance. The largest cave serves as the main meditation center, which houses an 18-ft.

After visiting the cave temple, proceed upwards through rocks and wilderness to the summit (Uda Maluwa) of the mountain range. The pathway to the peak is not very steep, with steps constructed and very safe. No previous rock climbing experience is needed. At the top, enjoy a well-deserved rest and a full 360-degree view of the surroundings. On clear days, you can even see the buildings of Colombo city, the Colombo harbour, and many surrounding rock formations.

Descend from the summit and board your vehicle for the short drive to the nearby Pilikuttuwa Raja Maha Viharaya. The two temples are located approximately 1.6 km from each other. En route, your guide will share the fascinating folklore linking both temples to King Valagamba.

Pilikuttuwa Raja Maha Viharaya is considered one of the Buddhist temples with the highest number of drip-ledged rock caves in Sri Lanka, with 99 rock caves spread across 200 acres. The Department of Archaeology has identified and gazetted 78 caves for conservation due to their historical importance. The history of Pilikuttuwa spans from the prehistoric period to the Kandyan era.

Visit the ancient Dharma Hall, the Bo-tree terrace with its royal "prince and princess" trees, and the stone stupa within a dramatic rock shelter. Discover Sri Lanka's second-oldest wooden bridge from the Kandyan period, ancient ponds, natural tunnels, and canals within the temple grounds.

Trek along jungle paths through the Pilikuttuwa rainforest reserve with its lush layers of flora and rich biodiversity, including a 500-year-old giant Pus Wela (creeper) and a large variety of bird species. Reach the main vantage point for scenic views over the surrounding coconut groves and paddy fields.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a local restaurant or a scenic rest spot near the temple. (Lunch is not included in the tour price — your guide will recommend the best local options nearby.) Board the vehicle for the return drive to Negombo.

Per garantire la disponibilità, prenota il prima possibile. La prenotazione anticipata è consigliata soprattutto se stai pianificando il viaggio durante l'alta stagione come le festività pubbliche o i fine settimana.

Questa escursione può essere annullata senza costi fino a 24 ore prima dell'inizio del viaggio. Se la annulli dopo 24 ore o non ti presenti all'escursione, ti verrà comunque addebitato il prezzo intero dell'attività. Essere in ritardo al ritiro o alla partenza sarà considerato come non presentarsi.