Exploring the Mystical Charm of Kataragama Village in Sri Lanka – Bhanuka – eLanka Nestled in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, Kataragama is a village that exudes an air of mysticism and spirituality. This quaint village, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse religious significance, attracts pilgrims, tourists, and spiritual seekers alike. From the revered Kataragama Temple to the lush Yala National Park, Kataragama offers a unique blend of spirituality and natural beauty that is worth exploring. In this article, we will take a closer look at the enchanting village of Kataragama and what makes it a must-visit destination. Historical Significance Kataragama’s history dates back thousands of years, making it one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and most revered pilgrimage sites. The village is mentioned in the ancient epic poem, the “Mahabharata,” as a place of worship. It is believed to have been a site of worship for various deities ...

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Sri Lanka: Yet another Pada Yathra without Crowd-by Admiral Ravindra C Wijegunaratne Kataragama Temple Source:Srilankaguardian  The proper “Pada Yathra” or journey by foot starts from Nagapoosan Amman Temple in Nayanativu (Nagadeepa), which is the Northern most Hindu temple in our country or from Nallur Kandaswamy Temple in Jaffna, which is dedicated to God Murugan. It starts in early June and devotees walk for 52 days, more than 750 kms to reach Katharagama by the third week of July, in time for the Kataragama festival. History of the “Pada Yathra” In Parallel to the pilgrimage to Mountain Kaillash in Himalayas in India (near Pithoragarh District, Uttarakhand State, India), there is a pilgrimage in Sri Lanka known in ancient history as Southern Kaillash (Dakshina Kaillash), the Weda Siti Kanda, the mountain near Kataragama where lord Skanda used to live. Buddhists believe, before King Dutugemunu went to war against King Elara, he got ...

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Athupandalama ritual at Kataragama Temple-by Nisal Baduge Source:Dailymirror The ritual known as ‘Athupandalama’ took place at the Kataragama Temple in view of the Esala Perehara. The ceremony marks the thatching of the hut in front of the main Temple and its branches are called Athupandalama. The ritual takes place every year. The main tusker ‘Wasana’ of the Temple performs the ritual in the presence of the Basnayaka Nilame. Pix by Nisal Baduge ...

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