Monks have used the caves here since at least the 2nd century BCE, and a handful of hermit monks still live among the rock-cut cells today. The climb to the summit stupa rewards you with a flat view across the dry zone forest canopy. It is at Polonnaruwa's Kaduruwela, close to the other main sights. It sits below the headline sights but earns its place on a longer visit to Polonnaruwa. Entry is free and 2-3 hours including the climb gives you a thorough visit.
What It Is
You scramble up bare granite past weathered drip-ledge caves once used by forest-dwelling monks, with brahmi inscriptions still faintly visible on some rock faces. At the top, a whitewashed stupa sits against open sky with forest stretching unbroken to the horizon.
Why Visit
One of the few places near Polonnaruwa where the monastic tradition is still lived, not just displayed behind rope barriers. It is not the first thing you should see in Polonnaruwa, but with two or more days it fills a gap the major sights leave. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.
More on Polonnaruwa
It is in the Kaduruwela part of Polonnaruwa. See where it ranks among the things to do in Polonnaruwa.
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