Govinda Hela

Located in Siyambalanduwa, on the border of the Ampara District in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, at approximately 500 m above sea level, the "Westminster Abbey" or Govinda Hela (westminster abbey) has long been known as a natural sanctuary for protection from enemies from ancient times. There are also a number of legends and legends associated with the rock, one of which is the phenomenon on which the British called the rock "Westminster Abbey".
Accordingly, when the whole island came under British rule during the British rule, when the British visited the Eastern Province, the rock was renamed "Wesminister Abbey Catholic Church, a National Heritage Site of England as well as a famous place, as it looks like a monument".

Access to Govinda Hela (westminster abbey) Muduna is through this temple, so you need to get permission from the temple and buy a ticket for a small fee.

Route : If you are coming from Colombo to visit Govinda Hela (westminster abbey), you have to take a Colombo-Ampara bus to Siyambalanduwa, Buddha 9 post. Then after passing the Buddhama Junction and walking towards Ampara for a short distance you will see the Govinda Hela (westminster abbey) which looks majestic on the right side. As mentioned above, one can reach the top of Govinda Hela (westminster abbey) by passing the Bo tree behind the ancient Sri Buwanekabhahu Rajamaha Viharaya and following the footpath towards the forest.

In the middle of Turu Latha, go through the rocks and along the uphill path, near the top you will find the last part of Govinda Hela (westminster abbey) which is a straight rock hela. Parts of the ladder are made of iron ladder to make it easier to climb, but some places have decayed over time so care must be taken to ascend.

Upon reaching the top of the hill, there is a Buddha's hut built on the top and a large plain behind it. Tourists are also encouraged to camp here as it is a great place to watch the morning sunrise from the east. The coastline from Ampara to Arugambay overlooks the top of Govinda Hela (westminster abbey) and on the other side you can see many mountain ranges.

Upon reaching the top of the hill, there is a Buddha's hut built on the top and a large plain behind it. Tourists are also encouraged to camp here as it is a great place to watch the morning sunrise from the east. The coastline from Ampara to Arugambay overlooks the top of Govinda Hela (westminster abbey) and on the other side you can see many mountain ranges.

History of Govinda Hela (westminster abbey) In the history of Cyril, during the reign of King Buwanekabahu, temples were built in the vicinity of Govinda Hela (westminster abbey) and the ruins and archeological evidences associated with the Sri Buwanekabahu Purana Rajamaha Viharaya and the temple grounds that still exist today bear witness to this.

Special Notes : As mentioned earlier, this rock has been used since the days of the king as a safe haven from enemies As it is an important place for archeological as well as natural beauty, you who visit here If you understand the value of this and visit here, this beautiful place will be safe in the future.

How to reach: The closest city to this place is Monaragala.

Traveling Time:1 hr 3 min (48.8 km)

Weather: Clear sky

Route : Colombo --> Monaragala --> Siyambalanduwa --> 9th mile post (A-25) --> Govinda Hela (westminster abbey) --> returned on the same route

Famous for:

• Camping
• Hiking
• Scenery
• Enjoy nature
• Sightseeing
• Photography

Special Remark:

• Take bottles of water
• Do not carry Plastic items (Minimize) Make sure you bring back everything you took
• Don't disturb wild life
• Beware of Snakes
• Beware of thunder & lightning
• Ask directions from locals