Commanding a breathtaking clifftop vantage overlooking the mist-filled Kothmale reservoir and the cascading torrents of Ramboda Falls, the Sri Baktha Hanuman Temple in Ramboda is the primary pilgrimage focal point dedicated to Hanuman in Sri Lanka.
The Legend of Ramboda and the Search for Seetha
According to highland tradition, when Hanuman entered the rugged mountain corridors of Lanka in search of Princess Seetha, he climbed the high ridges of Ramboda to survey the surrounding valleys and mountain hideouts of King Ravana.
Local folk etymology associates the name Ramboda (or Rampoda) with the sacred footprints of Rama and his vanguard forces when they positioned themselves in the hills before launching the final military offensive.
Temple Highlights & Pooja Schedules
- The Colossal Granite Murti: The sanctum sanctorum houses an impressive 16-foot tall black granite statue of Lord Hanuman, consecrated by the Chinmaya Mission in 2001.
- Daily Pooja Timings: Morning prayers 7:00 AM; Noon Archana 12:00 PM; Evening Aarti 6:00 PM.
- Panoramic Observation Terrace: The outer temple courtyard offers sweeping 180-degree vistas of the emerald tea valleys and Kothmale river basin.
Visiting Logistics Along the Kandy-Nuwara Eliya Route
The temple is ideally located on the A5 highway between Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, approximately 30 kilometers south of Gampola. It forms a natural stopping point for travelers touring tea estates, Ramboda Falls, and the high-altitude gardens of Nuwara Eliya.
Cultural Etiquette
Devotees from around the world visit daily to offer sacred basil leaves (Tulasi) and chant the Hanuman Chalisa. Modest dress covering shoulders and legs is required, and visitors must remove shoes before stepping into the sacred granite courtyard.