Plizio Visual Lab
Seetha Amman Temple
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
The Seetha Amman Temple is located in Sita Eliya, approximately five kilometers from Nuwara Eliya, and is one of the most significant Hindu pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. According to legend, this was the precise location where Princess Seetha was held captive by the demon king Ravana in the ancient epic Ramayana. The temple stands beside a stream where Seetha is said to have bathed during her confinement, and nearby rocks bear circular depressions believed to be footprints of the monkey god Hanuman. While the current temple structure is a modern construction, the site itself holds profound mythological and historical importance dating back millennia. The surrounding dense forest and misty mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for the tales of Hanuman's arrival and the eventual rescue of Seetha. Worshippers from around the globe visit to perform rituals and witness the unique connection between the island's geography and Hindu scriptures. The site remains a vital center for religious observance, particularly during major Hindu festivals throughout the calendar year.
- Location: Sri Lanka
- Top sights: Moon Plains · Bomburu Ella Waterfall · Seetha Amman Kovil
- Nearby: Knuckles Range (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Jun, Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 144 | 106 | 102 | 155 | 128 | 62 | 50 | 65 | 112 | 221 | 289 | 262 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Seetha Amman Temple is an active Hindu temple in Nuwara Eliya open to visitors. The interior can only be entered with appropriate attire.
Typical hours
The temple is typically open from morning to afternoon with a midday break. Prayer times are the busiest periods.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed outdoors but often prohibited inside. Ask for permission before photographing deities or rituals.
Time needed
Visiting the temple takes about 30 minutes to an hour. If attending a ceremony, allow more time.
Combine with
Combine the temple visit with a stroll through nearby Victoria Park. The Gregory Lake area is also worth seeing.
Getting there
The temple is in central Nuwara Eliya, within walking distance from many hotels. Tuk-tuks are a convenient alternative.
Insider tip
Respect local customs: cover shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering the temple interior.
Geography
Facts
- The temple is situated 5 km away from Nuwara Eliya town.
- The site is identified as Ashoka Vatika in the Ramayana.
- Circular depressions on rocks are called Hanuman's footprints.
- The modern temple structure was renovated in 1998.
- The stream running beside the temple is named Seetha Ela.
- It is the only temple in Sri Lanka dedicated primarily to Seetha.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Seetha Amman Temple (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the legend of this temple?
It is believed that this is the place where Goddess Seetha was held captive by King Ravana.
Where is the temple located?
In Seetha Eliya, about 5 kilometers from Nuwara Eliya.
What are the circular marks near the river?
Believers consider them to be the footprints of the monkey god Hanuman.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry is free, but donations for maintenance are customary.
When is the best time to visit?
During the morning or evening Puja (prayer time) for a spiritual experience.
Seetha Amman Temple: where is it located?
Seetha Amman Temple is located in Sri Lanka.
Seetha Amman Temple: what is there to see?
Highlights include Moon Plains, Bomburu Ella Waterfall, Seetha Amman Kovil.
Seetha Amman Temple: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Jun, Jul.
Seetha Amman Temple: why is it worth visiting?
The Seetha Amman Temple is located in Sita Eliya, approximately five kilometers from Nuwara Eliya, and is one of the most significant Hindu pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Sri Lanka →
Nearby cities
Knuckles Range
A UNESCO World Heritage site with misty peaks resembling a clenched fist, perfect for trekking.
Sembuwatta Lake
A paradisiacal man-made lake nestled within tea plantations, famous for its deep blue waters and misty mountain backdrop.
Marakolliya
A pristine coastal paradise near Tangalle, known for its golden shores and absolute tranquility.
Tangalle
A peaceful getaway with pristine coves, mangroves, and deep blue waters, ideal for relaxation away from the crowds.
Haputale
Haputale is spectacularly perched on a mountain ridge, offering breathtaking views of tea plantations and cloud forests.
Bandarawela
Bandarawela is a quiet highland resort town known for its mild climate, colonial architecture, and tea production.
Dikwella
A relaxed coastal town in southern Sri Lanka, famous for its long sandy beaches and the island's largest seated Buddha statue.
Matale
Matale is an agricultural town nestled in a valley in the center of the island, surrounded by spice gardens.
Hatton
Hatton is the heart of Sri Lanka's tea industry and a major gateway for those climbing the sacred Adam's Peak.
History & landmarks
Lover's Leap Waterfall
A picturesque waterfall in Nuwara Eliya named after a tragic love story.
World's End
A dramatic sheer cliff in Horton Plains National Park offering spectacular views.
Gregory Lake
An artificial lake in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, popular for boating.
Ramboda Falls
A scenic 109-meter waterfall located in the hill country of Sri Lanka.
Pidurangala Rock
A massive rock adjacent to Sigiriya, offering incredible panoramic views of the famous fortress.
Kandy Lake
An artificial lake in the center of Kandy city, adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth.
Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue
A gigantic white Buddha statue perched on a hill overlooking the city of Kandy.
Habarana
Habarana is a strategic hub within Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, serving as an ideal base for safaris and visits to Sigiriya.
More places
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
An ancient rock fortress and palace ruin renowned for its frescoes.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
A Buddhist temple in Kandy housing the relic of the tooth of the Buddha.
Dambulla Cave Temple
The largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka.
Royal Botanical Gardens Peradeniya
The largest botanical garden in the country, famous for its orchid collection and massive Javan fig tree.
Embekka Devalaya
A temple renowned for its outstanding wooden carvings dating back to the 14th century.
Hakgala
A mountain near Nuwara Eliya famous for the botanical gardens located on its slopes.
Thotupola Kanda
The third highest mountain in Sri Lanka, associated with the Ramayana legend of King Ravana.
Horton Plains National Park
A protected area in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, covered by montane grassland and cloud forest.