Kebilitta Devalaya, which is alternatively called Maha Siyambalawa Devalaya, is one of the most spiritually enriching and interesting forest devalayas in Sri Lanka. Situated amidst the forests surrounding Yala National Park, this religious site is visited by pilgrims who consider it to be the spiritual abode of God Kataragama, who is also referred to as Skanda Kumara. In contrast to other temples in Sri Lanka, Kebilitta Devalaya is situated amidst dense forest areas, tracks, and natural surroundings.
For many pilgrims, visiting Kebilitta is not simply a religious trip. It is a journey of faith, patience, discipline, and respect for nature. The shrine’s mysterious atmosphere, traditional beliefs, and difficult access have made it an important destination in Sri Lanka’s religious and cultural landscape.
The Location and Natural Beauty of Kebilitta
Kebilitta has been historically associated with the forest areas in Yala and more precisely the area referred to as Block IV in the region. The untamed surroundings are integral parts of the shrine. As opposed to having big buildings, tarred roads, shops among other forms of developments, nature, mud roads, rivers, and the forest sound will be the things people visiting the shrine will find.
This experience in an isolated area will be quite different from the usual visit to a regular temple. Trees will provide shades and the birds chirping from trees will provide a solitary environment in the area due to the vegetation surrounding.
Yala region is also the region where conservation of wildlife takes place. There are many kinds of wildlife found in this region. Therefore, any visitor going to Kebilitta should realize that the forest surroundings are both pilgrimage site and a natural habitat.
Religious Significance of Maha Siyambalawa Devalaya
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| Kataragama Devalaya |
Kebilitta is one of the sites which have high regard amongst the worshippers of God Kataragama. In accordance with the popular tradition, God Kataragama opts to meditate in this serene environment away from all other disturbances in the main Kataragama Devalaya.
The majority of those who visit the shrine for prayers regard the spiritual environment of the shrine as essential for the development of inner peace, strengthening of faith and for the blessings of devotees, their family, livelihood and whatever problems they are facing.
The worshippers go there for prayers, making offerings and meditation at the place. Therefore, the value of the site does not lie in the grandeur of its architecture but its spiritual value.
It is important to point out that legends associated with the meditation of the god at this site are a part of the religious tradition.
The Sacred Tamarind Tree
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| Tamarind Tree |
One very special characteristic of Kebilitta is the holy tamarind tree known as Maha Siyambalawa. This tree is related to the name and spirituality of the shrine.
According to local legends, there is a unique connection between this place and God Kataragama as well as his wife, Valli Amma. There are legends concerning the connection between this place and their meeting and concerning the tree which is a part of the sacred history of this place.
Moreover, there are legends about the first tamarind tree and the second tree that is growing from this one. All these legends have been incorporated into the folklore of the shrine.
This tree is not only a part of the nature of the place but it also symbolizes the sacredness of the place. It serves as a place for prayers of the people.
While visiting the shrine, it is important to show respect for the tree and to preserve its bark, branches, roots, and any other parts of the tree as well as vegetation that surrounds the tree.
Ancient Bodhi Tree and Stone Ruins
One more interesting thing related to Kebilitta is that there exists a Bodhi tree and some old stone constructions in the neighborhood of the temple. All this inspires legends and tales regarding the possible ties of the place to some ancient traditions of Buddhism.
In fact, according to some descriptions, there could exist some ruined structures, which can be referred to as an old forest monastery, Aranya Senasana. Such institutions were used by Buddhist monks as a place where they could find some silence for meditation.
However, the age, function, and history of the remains cannot be taken into account without some definite archeological data.
Nevertheless, the Bodhi tree, stone remains, and the forest surrounding the temple add something to the impression of antiquity of Kebilitta.
Traditional Rules Followed by Pilgrims
Kebilitta is well-known for the spiritual practice performed by its worshippers before making their pilgrimage to the place. The pilgrims feel that preparation to the visit must be started days before the arrival at the shrine.
1. Vegetarian Food and Abstinence
As per the age-old traditions, it is customary for devotees not to consume meat or eat vegetarian food at least for a period of seven days before going on a pilgrimage. In some cases, this period is extended for some devotees.
Fasting from alcohol and cigarettes also forms part of the preparatory process of the pilgrimage. This can be viewed by many as self-restraint, simplicity, and dedication to one’s faith.
2. Maintaining a Calm and Respectful Mind
It is necessary to warn the pilgrim that he should not get involved in any disputes and should maintain courtesy in his speech and not use any offensive language.
Moreover, there are those pilgrims who do not want to justify the motive of their pilgrimage to maintain humility before reaching the holy place.
These traditions should be taken as religious and not scientific.
3. Clean Clothing and Respectful Behaviour
One needs to dress neatly and conservatively during the pilgrimage journey. This is because it is advisable for one to dress in white clothes since white denotes modesty and purity.
Depending on the particular shrine to be visited, one needs to take off his/her shoes before getting into the holy site. The instructions of the priest at the shrine must be obeyed by the pilgrim.
What matters most is that one needs to go to the shrine with a reverent attitude and not like any other tourist site.
The Challenging Journey to Kebilitta
Getting into Kebilitta is one of the toughest aspects of this travel experience. Compared to other religious places of interest in Sri Lanka, access to this shrine does not involve a typical concrete road leading to the entry point.
Depending on the route and conditions, the access may involve the struggle to go through the rough terrain jungle trails, muddy grounds, tough terrains, and rivers. In fact, the travel becomes even tougher during the rainy season when the water level increases and the jungle trail becomes slippery.
In such circumstances, a four-wheel drive car and an experienced driver of such roads would be required. Tractors can also be considered for some of the routes.
The journey could prove to be longer than anticipated due to issues like weather, roads, and traveling cautiously. The tourists should know that the time taken by the journey is not determined by the distance alone.
Using the services of a local guide and making inquiries about the current arrangement for accessing the area prior to traveling is mandatory. The protected area needs to be entered in accordance with wildlife rules.
The Sacred Kumbukkan Oya River Crossing
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| Kumbukkan Oya River |
Kumbukkan Oya Crossing is a traditional practice that takes place at the sacred place called Kebilitta. Most pilgrims regard themselves reaching the river as a crucial stage of pilgrimage.
Pilgrims traditionally went up to the bank of the river and after the cleansing process took place, they proceeded to the shrine. The shrine of the Goddess Pattini is related to the site of crossing.
It is one of the practices of some pilgrims to light oil lamps with the view of making a safe crossing. This is a good example of the importance of faith and thanksgiving in the traditional pilgrimage.
It is one of the practices of some pilgrims to make offerings. For example, making of milk rice called Muruthan was a traditional custom.
However, pilgrims should be very careful before approaching the river since it might flow in a different way because of rains. It is unreasonable to risk oneself while performing the traditional practice.
Offerings and Worship at the Shrine
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| God Kataragama |
The act of offering is very important in terms of the rituals in Kebilitta. According to their traditions and beliefs, the followers are able to offer some acceptable gifts such as food, flowers and anything else.
Pilgrims usually prefer humble and quiet prayers. They would rather pray and thank God, and communicate with Him in Kataragama than decorate this place with various stuff or offer luxurious gifts.
This atmosphere will promote rational thinking. Some pilgrims go there to pray God for their safety and prosperity, while others come here to thank Him or get spiritual strength during that difficult period.
Regardless of the beliefs of the pilgrims, they must not forget about the cleanliness of this place. The purity of the holy place and nature cannot be preserved without people.
Best Time to Plan a Visit
More detailed preparation is necessary for making a pilgrimage to Kebilitta than just visiting an ordinary temple. The weather, the water level in the river, the condition of the tracks and wildlife policy may influence the opportunity to make a pilgrimage.
There are those, who like to make their pilgrimage in certain seasons, when the tracks become easy and some others, who include religious rites in their plans during their pilgrimage. But there is no such month, in which it is safe to make the pilgrimage.
It is very important to get fresh information about the access policy from the authorities or the local guide before the beginning of your journey. One should find out whether permission is necessary, which track to follow and whether there are safe crossings on the river.
It is very important to bring with you plenty of water, food, medications, clothing and other things needed in an emergency situation because sometimes the area far from civilization has no coverage.
Protecting Kebilitta for Future Generations
The spirituality of Kebilitta is largely linked with the natural settings of the place. The presence of forest, trees, river, and its isolation are some of the things which make the destination holy for the pilgrims.
The visitors should not pollute, disturb, or create noise, and not do anything to harm the natural elements or any historical ruins. Additionally, feeding animals and dumping food may harm the natural setting of the surroundings.
It is equally important to respect the sentiments of other pilgrims regarding their religion. One should take pictures of the place only if permitted by others.
This is very essential for maintaining the sanctity of the place both spiritually and environmentally.
