The serene and tranquil town of Tissamaharama (or “Tissa” as it is most frequently referred to) is located in the Hambantota district and was the capital of the ancient Ruhunu Kingdom in the 2nd century B.C. Tissa, named after King Kavantissa, father of the famous Dutugemunu, is dominated by lakes and gigantic semi-circle shaped Buddhist Dagobas (temples) that reach majestically to the sky. Their brilliant white radiance contrast with the surrounding luminous green paddy fields and lotus-filled lakes, providing a vivid reminder of the ancient cultural values of this island – a land where life, religion and nature were intrinsically linked.
A scenic backdrop to Tissa town is provided by the sprawling Tissa Wewa (ancient reservoir known locally as “tanks”) built by King Kavantissa 2,300 years ago as well as the Debara Wewa located near by. These reservoirs provide life to the surrounding villages as well as attracting many species of water birds including cormorant, purple heron, Caspian tern and the painted stork. Several ancient Buddhist temples including the Maha Stupa, Sandagiri dagoba and monastery complex, Yatala and the Menik dagobas are all located nearby as well as an archeological Museum that provides a glimpse into the ancient Ruhunu kingdom.
About 50 miles northeast of Hambantota, is the sacred jungle shrine of Kataragama, surrounded by hills and perched on the banks of the Menik Ganga (river of jewels). This pilgrimage site has great religious and historical significance for all four of main religions of the world. Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims and Christians throng to this sacred jungle shrine, built by the warrior King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century B.C. to pay homage to God Kataragama. The Kirivehera, a Buddhist dagoba dating back to the 1st century B.C., as well as several other shrines are all housed within the large Kataragama complex. Each day at specific times, the shrines come alive when poojas (devotions) are presented to the Gods. The baskets filled with fruit and flowers, the aromas from burning incense and oil lamps, the sounds of dashing coconuts, clanging bells and continuous chanting all combine to provide a mesmerizing experience.
In August each year, a sacred period referred to as Esala, Kataragama becomes even more intriguing place to visit as a two-week Perehera (pageant or street festival) is held, drawing in pilgrims from all across the island. The pageant, a riot of colour and sound, celebrates the history of this jungle shrine, Hindu folklore, music and dance forms, as well as fire walking in sacrifice and devotion to God Kataragama.