Visit the lesser-visited yet highly picturesque Kirinda Royal Temple, dramatically perched on a massive boulder overlooking the Indian Ocean. Dating back to the 3rd century BC, this peaceful coastal temple is closely connected to the legendary story of Princess Vihara Maha Devi, one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated royal figures.
According to ancient chronicles, the princess was set adrift at sea during a great calamity and eventually arrived safely at Kirinda, then known as Lanka Vihara. She later became the queen of King Kavan Tissa and mother of King Dutugemunu, the ruler who reunified Sri Lanka over 2,000 years ago.
Today, the temple offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and dramatic coastal scenery. Ancient cave shrines, panoramic ocean views, and the sound of crashing waves create a truly memorable atmosphere.
The experience is further enhanced with a scenic drive along the boundary of Bundala National Park, where lagoons, wetlands, birdlife, and coastal landscapes showcase the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s southern coastline.
Visit Kirinda Royal Temple & Boundaries of Bundala National Park
Best Season: All year around
Availability: Daily
Advance Booking Required: 1 day
Hottest Month: March & April
Best Time of the Day to Start: 5:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Starting Point: Tissamaharama
Excursion Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours
(Including temple visit and scenic coastal drive)
Price Includes
- Pick up and drop off
- Offering to the temple
- All government taxes
Child Policy
- Children aged 6–12 years are charged at the child rate
- Children aged 0–5 years are free of charge
Restrictions
- No flash photography of ancient paintings
- Cover knees and shoulders before entering the temple
- Do not leave plastic or litter behind
- Please do not feed wild animals
Experience Highlights
- Kirinda Royal Temple atop a coastal granite boulder
- Ancient 3rd century BC Buddhist temple history
- Legend of Princess Vihara Maha Devi
- Panoramic Indian Ocean views
- Peaceful cave temple atmosphere
- Scenic coastal drive near Bundala National Park wetlands
- Cultural storytelling connected to King Dutugemunu and ancient Sri Lanka
Recommended to Bring
- Water bottle
- Hat & sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Camera
Your Feedback Matters
Our drivers and service providers are instructed not to promote unrelated activities or encourage unnecessary shopping stops. We appreciate your feedback and reviews on Google after your experience.
We Love Holiday Planning!
Need help organizing your Sri Lanka journey? We’re happy to assist with transport, accommodation, and tailor-made experiences.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.