Mulkirigala Rock Temple is right on our doorstep, near to Tangalle. If you are looking for things to do in the area, this is an experience that you should absolutely make time for. It’s just a half an hour tuktuk ride away from our home here in Tangalle, travelling inland into lush forestry surrounding the temple. Once you arrive, you will have to pay a 500 LKR entrance fee, and then you can start making your way up! Be aware that there are many stairs, including uneven ones, and while there are handrails, it may be challenging for anyone with mobility issues. 

As you climb the stairs, you will get more and more of a view of the area all around Mulkirigala. The spectacular jungle beneath looks like a breathtaking painting, and offers a picturesque snapshot of Sri Lanka! As you reach the temple itself, you will need to remove your shoes, bend down through the doorway and then you can wander around at your own pace. Exploring every nook of this compound, you will find sculptures, paintings and archaeological wonders dating back thousands of years. You can find works of art depicting episodes from the life of the Buddha in various forms. 

After you are done exploring the temple, you can continue up some slightly more challenging stairs to reach the summit. Once you have braved the climb, you will find monkeys settling around the built structures and by walking to the farthest point, you can find a grand Buddha statue and an awe-inspiring view, showing the magnificent land all around you. 

Each experience of Mulkirigala is different, some people may have a spiritual moment in the temple, and some might have a great workout getting to the top, but everyone is sure to enjoy their time at this ancient site.