Distance from Arugam Bay – 55 km (1 hour 08 minutes)

Govinda Hela is a 500-meter tall rock mountain that is situated in Siyambalanduwa in the Uva province. It is also known as Westminster Abbey by the British rulers, as the place bore resemblance to the Westminster Abbey in London. According to the great chronicle Chulavamsa, King Bhuvanekabahu had been ruling in this area during time of Kalinga Magha, thus protecting the region from Magha’s army. Govinda Hela is surrounded by a large number of trees and forest area, so make sure to wear a good pair of trekking shoes when hiking this rock mountain.

Getting to Govinda Hela

From Arugam Bay travel along the Colombo – Batticaloa Highway and Siyambalanduwa – Damana – Ampara Highway passing Pottuvil, Sengamuwa, Lahugala, and Siyambalanduwa to reach Govinda Hela.

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