Maha Saman Devale
Sabaragamuwa Province
About Maha Saman Devale
The Maha Saman Devale outside Ratnapura is the principal seat of Saman - the radiant guardian deity of Sri Pada (Adam's Peak) and of the gem-bearing lands of Sabaragamuwa, among the island's most beloved divine protectors. Founded in the 13th century (tradition credits a minister's vision), flattened by the Portuguese who built a fort on its terrace, and restored under the Kandyan kings, the shrine spreads today across a stately hilltop compound: whitewashed gateways and drumming halls descending in ceremonial axis, a Buddhist vihara and the devale of the god sharing the platform, and a small museum holding the Portuguese-era tombstone of a conquistador - history keeping receipts. Come for the evening tevava drumming any day; come in September for the Maha Perahera, when Sabaragamuwa's dancers, drummers, and tuskers - a pageant to rival Kandy's, at a fraction of the crowds - process for a fortnight under the shadow of the sacred mountain.
Top Activities
- ✓The ceremonial axis and drumming halls
- ✓Evening tevava rituals
- ✓September Maha Perahera
- ✓The Portuguese tombstone and museum
- ✓Combine with Ratnapura's gem country
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Evening drumming (around 6pm) is the daily moment to catch.
September's perahera is the insider's alternative to Kandy's crowds.
Modest dress; the compound is both devale and vihara.
Quick Info
Best Time
Year-round; September for the perahera
Weather
One of the wettest regions - carry rain cover year-round.
Estimated Daily Budget
6.6997°N, 80.3736°E
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