Pilikuttuwa Cave and Forest Temples

Quietly nestled in the forested hills near Gampaha, this ancient cave complex offers a rare blend of spiritual history, scenic walking and expert local insight.

Spread across over 200 acres of countryside, the Pilikuttuwa site is one of Sri Lanka’s largest cave temple complexes. More than 100 natural caves and dripstone shelters dot the landscape, once offering refuge to Buddhist monks seeking solitude during the rainy season.

Etched rock murals hint at the devotion of past centuries, while many shrines remain in quiet use by local worshippers today.

Your exploration is guided by Prathini, a heritage interpreter and researcher whose deep knowledge and personal passion bring the stories of Pilikuttuwa vividly to life. Alongside her academic background in geography, she’s a poet, author—and the first Sri Lankan woman to cycle the island’s perimeter.

The experience includes a moderately steep climb through lush forested hills. At the top, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of rural Sri Lanka, with the silhouette of Colombo faintly visible on the horizon—a striking contrast between ancient and modern.

What You’ll Do

• Explore one of Sri Lanka’s largest cave temple complexes

• Visit rock shrines and ancient monk dwellings still used today

• Climb forested trails for panoramic views of countryside and Colombo

• Learn from expert local guide Prathini, a heritage interpreter and poet

• Experience a peaceful, lesser-visited cultural site near the capital