Located on Polgasduwa Island, the Dodanduwa Polgasduwa Temple is situated within easy reach of Hikkaduwa. The temple was established in 1911 by a German Buddhist monk, ‘Gnanatiloka’, who is considered to be the first Theravada Buddhist monk with German origins. This secluded hermitage is a popular draw amongst Buddhists the world over, looking to practice meditation and studying the teachings of Lord Buddha.

Since this is a sacred site where meditation is practiced, visitors are restricted to the temple. Those planning to visit here need to write and get permission in advance from the monastery in order to get a letter of invitation. As with the case of most Buddhist temples and sites in the country there is a dress code for visitors entering the premises and those invited to Dodanduwa Polgasduwa temple need to follow the given instructions pertaining to attire.

Parappuduwa Hermitage is a Theravada Buddhist Meditation Centre ¡n the Forest Monks tradition. The island is situated in beautiful Rathgama Lake 5 kms south of Hikkaduwa and 104 kms south of Colombo. It is possible for sincere meditators (males only) to stay on the island to study and practice traditional Theravada meditation. To maintain the quiet of the hermitage it is necessary to write in advance and receive a written invitation. To receive an invitation, please write in English: To the Monk in Charge Parappuduwa Hermitage Katudampe Dodanudwa 80250