Nā Uyana Monastery, Buddhist forest monastery in Kurunegala, Sri Lanka
Nā Uyana Monastery is a Buddhist forest monastery in the Kurunegala mountains that spreads across extensive land and contains meditation halls, residential quarters, and ancient cave structures. The grounds offer a mix of natural surroundings and built facilities for monks and visitors.
An ancient king donated this land to Buddhist monks in pre-Christian times, as writings in the caves reveal. This early connection made the site an important center for Buddhist communities in the region.
The monastery keeps Buddhist traditions alive through daily meditation sessions and ceremonies that bring together resident monks and visitors. These practices shape the rhythm of daily life at the site and show how people live and gather here.
The grounds are open to visitors at certain times, and those who wish to stay longer can join meditation retreats and stay overnight. It is best to check conditions before visiting and prepare for the natural surroundings and pathways.
The grounds are home to an ancient ironwood forest that gives the site its name and is part of reforestation work today. These special trees are a key part of what shapes this place.
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