The Bandarawela monastery, near the town of Ella, is home to over 30 Theravada Buddhist monks. From the top of their mountain they can look out at the busy world below. Anyone who makes the trek up the mountain will be rewarded with spectacular views and spectacular spiritual teachings of the Buddha.
Things to See and Do at the Monastery
Open Hours
Open Daily: 8 am to 9 pm
Monk’s meal offering: 10:45 am
Evening chanting: 6 pm
What to Bring
Directions
As you travel people will be happy to help you on your way if you mention to them that you are going to Mahamevnawa (Maha MAY oo naa wa)
From Elle train station: Take a three wheeler to the Kumbalwela-Bandarawela Mahamevnawa Bhavana Asapuwa (aprox Rs 800 – 1000).
From the Bandarawela bus station: Take a bus heading to Badulla and get off at the Kumbalwela Junction. Take a three wheeler to the Kumbalwela-Bandarawela Mahamevnawa Bhavana Asapuwa (aprox Rs 300).
Things to see close by the monastery
- Ravana Elle Falls
- Nine Arches Bridge, Demodara
- Dowa Raja Mahavihara, ancient temple with Buddha statues
- Bogoda Wooden Bridge
මහමෙව්නාව භාවනා අසපුව, කුඹල්වෙල, ඇල්ල.
Contact Information
Phone (or text): +94 76 82 55 729 Calling Guide
Email: info@mahamevnawa.lk
You are welcome to visit any time during our open hours and there will probably be someone available to show you around.
If you want to guarantee someone is available, please use this form. We will get back to you within 24 hours. If you are planning to visit before 24 hours, please call us at the number above or simply stop in for a visit.
F.A.Q.
Try to wear modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders.
Unless posted, you are very welcome to take photos anywhere in the monastery. Try to avoid selfies with Buddha statues behind you. If you post them on Instagram or Facebook please make sure they are dignified, and be sure to tag them with #mahamevnawa.
Feel free to ask them. If they say yes, please avoid physical contact. Please don’t hug the monks!!
Absolutely not. There is no fee for anything, although some our locations have a small bookshop with moderately priced English language Buddhist books.
Absolutely. Children come with their families to the monastery all the time. We even carry some English children’s books on Buddhism in our bookshops.
Yes, as long as a monk is available. To be sure one is available, send us an e-mail or call.
Absolutely. Just ask. They can also give you blessing threads. There is no charge for this or any other services of the monastery.
Assistance from travel websites
Visit these third party sites to help you plan your trip to our monastery. You can also use them to leave a review of your visit.
