16/06/2025
Kebiliththa Dewalaya (เถเทเถถเทเถฝเทเถญเทเถญ เถฏเทเทเทเถฝเถบ) is one of the most sacred and spiritually significant places in Sri Lanka, revered especially by devotees of God Kataragama (Skanda Kumara). Unlike the well-known Kataragama Dewalaya in the town of Kataragama, Kebiliththa is a hermitage-like sacred site deep within the Yala Forest Reserve, considered extremely holy, untouched, and spiritually powerful. Here is a detailed historical, spiritual, and logistical overview:
๐ Historical Background of Kebiliththa Dewalaya
Ancient Hermitage (Aranya Senasana):
Kebiliththa was once a meditation site for Arahants (enlightened monks). It was a forest hermitage used by meditative monks due to its tranquility and remoteness.
The name โKebiliththaโ is derived from โKapilavastuโ, the ancient city where Prince Siddhartha (Buddha) was born. Some believe the energy of renunciation and purification is echoed here.
Connection to God Kataragama (Skanda Kumara / Murugan):
Devotees believe that God Kataragama spends time meditating in Kebiliththa, especially during Esala season.
Unlike the Kataragama shrine where rituals are public, Kebiliththa is considered a private, sacred forest abode of the deity.
No rituals, music, or dances are permitted at Kebiliththa. It's a place of silence, meditation, and deep reverence.
No Temple Structure:
There is no permanent building. A small stone altar under a tree is the focus of worship, preserving the forestโs sacred purity.
The tree under which the god is believed to appear is a large Palu tree (Manilkara hexandra).
๐ Beliefs and Practices of Devotees
Pilgrimage & Vows
People undertake this pilgrimage to fulfill vows or seek blessings, especially for health, family issues, business success, and spiritual guidance.
Devotees believe only those with pure hearts and sincere intentions can safely complete the journey. Those with deceitful minds may encounter danger.
Avoidance of Sinful Speech & Action:
Before entering Kebiliththa, pilgrims purify themselves โ no alcohol, meat, or inappropriate behavior during the journey.
The journey is not for sightseeing, and silence is often observed.
Unwritten Rules:
No decorations, no drums, no fire-walking, no cameras or loud noises.
Shoes are not worn at the site.
Many pilgrims offer โKiri Amma Dhanaโ (milk rice and sweets) in coconut leaf baskets, following traditions similar to offerings at Kataragama.
๐ The Two Elephants (Divine Guardians)
According to local belief, two mystical elephants protect the sacred ground of Kebiliththa.
Some devotees claim to have seen white elephants or mysterious elephants who appear and vanish during pilgrimages.
These elephants are believed to be guardians or manifestations of divine energy, symbolizing purity, strength, and protection.
Some say if you're not spiritually pure, you may not be allowed to enter the sacred area or will face misfortunes during the journey.
๐งญ Location and Route to Kebiliththa Dewalaya
๐ Where is it?
Deep in Yala East National Park (Block III), bordering the Kumbukkan Oya, between Okanda and Siyambalanduwa, in the Monaragala District.
๐ฃ๏ธ How to Reach:
Main Entry Point โ Siyambalanduwa / Buttala / Monaragala
From Colombo โ Monaragala โ Siyambalanduwa โ Kotiyagala
From there, you enter Yala East Block (Kotiyagala Entrance) via 4WD vehicles only.
Jungle Route:
Approximately 45โ50 km through dense forest.
You cross Kumbukkan Oya to reach the Dewalaya.
The trail is extremely rough, includes river crossings, and wild animal encounters.
Pilgrims usually travel in convoys of jeeps and take 1.5โ2 days (with overnight stays in the jungle).
Alternative Route:
Some pilgrims start from Okanda Dewalaya (closer to the Eastern Coast near Pottuvil).
From Okanda, they travel through forest trails across the Kumana National Park to Kebiliththa.
โ ๏ธ Warnings and Guidelines
You must get prior permission from the Department of Wildlife Conservation to enter this forest.
Travel only with an experienced guide who knows the jungle route.
No one should attempt this journey without spiritual intention or readiness.
No one travels alone; it is always a group pilgrimage with like-minded devotees.
๐ง Spiritual Power of the Place
Kebiliththa is described as a โParissudda Devฤlayaโ โ a sacred and untouched spiritual ground.
Many say prayers made here with sincere hearts come true.
Meditation, reflection, and spiritual surrender are core to the experience.
Some describe miraculous events such as:
Sudden appearance of animals
Visions or dreams after sleeping at the site
Healing of illnesses
Sudden inner clarity or peace
๐ Who Visits?
Devotees from all walks of life โ Buddhists, Hindus, even Christians and Muslims visit with spiritual reverence.
Many Sri Lankans in business, politics, and the military undertake the journey in search of guidance or to fulfill vows.
Military personnel who served in the East often revere Kebiliththa due to its spiritual protection.
