Arankele Forest Monastery

The history of the paradise island of Sri Lanka is indeed quite interesting. During country’s golden era some remarkable architectural marvels were created. Some of these ancient creations stand tall to this day. Testifying to the incredible talent of the long forgotten, often unnamed creators.

The Arankele Forest Monastery is one such incredible marvel that you should certainly consider visiting if you are interested in the culture and history of the country. It is located approximately 100 kilometres from the city of Colombo and can be reached via the Colombo- Kurunegala- Ibbagamuwa- Moragolla road. You can include this site in your tour itinerary with ease as you travel with Green Holiday Centre.

The Purpose of The Arankele Forest Monastery

This majestic site is believed to have been used by a sect of monks for meditation purposes. The sublime serenity which envelopes the place even to this day, would certainly have been the reason for the monks to favour it. It is believed to have been created in the 6^th century. The Arankele Forest Monastery contains an elaborate collection of natural rock caves, bathing ponds, winding pathways and grinding stones.

Here you will find the largest hot water pond in Sri Lanka too! It has a length of 100 feet and a breadth of 60 feet! The vestiges of grinding stones which are found on site are believed to have been used for the purpose of making ayurvedic medicine. The site, therefore, would have at one point in time, been used as an ayurvedic hospital too.

While a beautiful minimalist theme is to be seen in almost all the creations that are found in the Arankele Forest Monastery. The urinal stones alone have been ornately decorated with carvings. The purpose of decorating the urinal stones remains unclear.

There are no statues or other shrines to be found here in the monastery. While the exterior of some of the caves here show the effects of the passage of time. The interior walls which are plastered with lime, are preserved well.