Nestled amid the mist-draped mountain slopes of Hakgala, roughly 8 kilometers outside Nuwara Eliya town, stands the Seetha Amman Temple (also written as Sita Eliya). This revered Kovil is uniquely significant as the only Hindu temple in the world dedicated exclusively to Princess Seetha.
The Ashoka Vatika Connection
According to the epic chronicle, Ashoka Vatika was a magnificent pleasure orchard cultivated by King Ravana in the cool mountain climate of modern-day Hakgala. It was here that Seetha was sheltered under the blossoming Ashoka trees (Saraca asoca) under the surveillance of Ravana's guards.
Beside the vibrant modern temple flows a cold mountain stream known as Seetha Ela. Imprinted along the riverbed rock are peculiar circular indentations of varying sizes, traditionally revered as the footprints of Lord Hanuman left during his miraculous leap across Lanka.
Temple Customs & Visitor Guidelines
- Pooja Timings: Morning prayers 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM; Evening prayers 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM.
- Dress Code: Modest attire covering shoulders and knees is mandatory. Remove footwear before entering the temple compound.
- Photography: Permitted outside in the courtyard and riverbed; restricted inside the inner sanctum.
Historical Architecture & Renovations
The temple features vibrant South Indian Dravidian gopuram sculptures depicting key episodes of the epic. In the rear courtyard, visitors can descend stone steps down to the stream to witness the natural geological impressions and place ceremonial offerings.
How to Get There
The temple is situated directly on the Nuwara Eliya-Badulla Main Road (A5) immediately adjacent to the entrance of Hakgala Strict Nature Reserve and Botanical Gardens. Regular public buses between Nuwara Eliya and Welimada stop right outside the temple gates.