Samangala site located in Ampara became very famous because of the Samangala Cave and the forest hermitage. Samangala cave is situated to the west of the Kohombana junction of Gonagala-Ampara road. To the eastern slope of the hill, many drip ledged caves can be seen. For history enthusiasts, this will be a well worth a visit to Samangala site.
They are used as ‘Kuti’ (shanties) of the monks. You have to climb up on a steep stair to reach the Bo maluwa and the main cave. It is believed that since from the past Buddhist monks came to these caves to involve in medications. A head monk is guiding and motivating other monks to develop meditation skills on behalf of freeing from lust and greediness. Nowadays a group of bhikkus is meditating in the caves. Some are set amidst the caves for penance. Perhaps you may get astounded by looking at the entire area. Below the Bo maluwa you can see a stream. Few Christian Brahmin inscriptions can be seen in the Samangala cave. An inscription of a Dagoba is illustrated in a high boulder of one cave. Archaeologists say that the sketch promenaded in the cave is similar to the ‘Sanchi Stupa’ in India. Such witnesses prove that Sri Lankans had connections with other Bhikkus from various countries.
Instead of the luxurious life style that we have, people have so many desires. Thereby people have said good bye to religious rituals and abandoned our culture. The surrounding has consisted with a meditative atmosphere, calm and quiet environment. Moreover, the Samangala is a great place to recall about serenity. Therefore a tour to the forest hermitage will be another relaxation to your mind and soul. Apart from that the adventure to the Samangala forest hermitage through the forest will be an amazing adventure for the travelers.