Govinda Hela (Westminster Abbey) | Monaragala

About this Attraction

The first time I saw Govinda Hela, I was excited and slightly intimidated. This towering 500-meter rock formation, also known as Westminster Abbey, stood majestically amidst the untouched wilderness of Siyambalanduwa on the border of the Ampara District in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province.

From a distance, Govinda Hela looked like an ancient guardian watching over the lands below. The thought of trekking through dense forest trails, rocky slopes, and historical ruins to reach the summit filled me with anticipation. But what awaited at the top? That was a mystery I was eager to uncover.

The Journey Begins – A Trek Through History and Wilderness

My journey started at Sri Buvaneka Vihara, a historic temple at the base of Govinda Hela. This temple is not just a starting point; it’s a sacred place with centuries of history. After securing permission and paying a small entrance fee, I followed the narrow footpath that disappeared into the forest.

The initial stretch of the trail was deceptively easy—shaded by towering ebony trees, with occasional leaves rustling as monkeys and exotic birds made their presence known. The air was thick with the scent of wildflowers and damp earth, a refreshing contrast to the urban chaos I had left behind.

However, half a kilometre in, the trek quickly became steep and challenging ascent. The dry season (July to August) made it slightly more manageable, but the trail was still tricky, with loose rocks and thick scrub blocking my path sometimes. Every few minutes, I had to stop and check for trampled leaves and markings left by previous trekkers to avoid getting lost in the dense jungle.

As I climbed higher, I was greeted by caves, hidden rock formations, and deep caverns—remnants of an ancient time. The deeper I ventured, the more I felt like an explorer uncovering a forgotten world.

The Reward – Reaching the Summit

After what felt like an eternity of climbing, I finally reached the summit of Govinda Hela—and every ounce of exhaustion simply melted away.

The view was unreal. A 360-degree panorama of lakes, reservoirs, distant hills, and endless greenery stretched before me. I could see as far as Arugam Bay, with a faint glimpse of the coastline shimmering in the sunlight.

But what fascinated me the most were the ancient ruins scattered across the summit. I walked through the remains of Adipada Bhuvanekabahu’s fortress, where he once took refuge from invaders. Stone ponds, age-old dams, pillars, and even a sandakada pahana (moonstone) hinted at the glorious past of this forgotten kingdom.

One of the most intriguing features was the Hulang Kapolla (Air Hole)—a narrow gap between two giant rocks where strong gusts of wind created a distinct "ho, ho" sound. Standing near it, I could feel the wind swirl around me, lifting leaves into a graceful dance before carrying them away. It was like listening to nature whispering its ancient secrets.

Camping Under the Stars

One of the highlights of my experience was the opportunity to camp overnight at the summit. I found a vast open space beyond the Buddha's hut, perfect for camp. As the sun set, the entire landscape became a canvas of golden hues, with shadows stretching across the valley below.

That night, I fell asleep under a sky full of stars, surrounded by the whispers of the wind and the distant calls of nocturnal animals. There are few places in Sri Lanka where you can feel this connected to nature, and Govinda Hela is undoubtedly one of them.

The Descent – Leaving a Piece of My Soul Behind

The following day, I woke up early to witness the sunrise. Watching the first rays of sunlight spill over the hills, lakes, and forests was magical. The world felt untouched as if I had stumbled upon a forgotten paradise.

The descent was much faster, though I had to navigate the steep slopes carefully. The forest canopy, alive with morning birdsong, made it a peaceful journey back to the temple. I stopped multiple times—not because I was tired, but because I wanted to soak in the moment for as long as possible.

Govinda Hela isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Things to Know Before You Go

1. Best Time to Visit

• The dry season (July to August) is ideal for trekking.
• The monsoon season makes the trails slippery and dangerous.

2. What to Bring

Sturdy trekking shoes – Essential for the rocky terrain.
Plenty of water – There are no water sources on the way up.
Snacks or light food – For energy during the trek.
A flashlight – If you plan to camp overnight.
A camera – Trust me, you’ll want to capture these views.

3. How to Get There

From Colombo

🚍 Take a Colombo-Ampara bus and travel to Siyambalanduwa (Approx. 48 km from Monaragala).
🚶 Follow the footpath behind Sri Buwanekabhahu Rajamaha Viharaya to start the hike.

From Ampara or Monaragala

A private vehicle is the most convenient option.

Why You Should Visit Govinda Hela

Unparalleled Views – A 360-degree lake, hill, and forest panorama.
Historical Significance – Explore ancient ruins and fortifications.
Adventure & Challenge – A thrilling trek through wild terrain.
Camping Experience – Wake up to one of the most stunning sunrises in Sri Lanka.
Natural Phenomena – Witness the mysterious Air Hole winds at the summit.

For adventure seekers, history lovers, and nature enthusiasts, Govinda Hela is a place that shouldn’t be missed. As I left, I knew that a part of me would always belong to this mountain—a place where history, nature, and mystery blend into one breathtaking experience.

Would you dare to take on the challenge of Govinda Hela? If so, prepare for an adventure unlike any other!

Final Thoughts

This was, without a doubt, one of the most rewarding treks I’ve ever done. The blend of history, breathtaking landscapes, and raw adventure made Govinda Hela an experience I’ll never forget. If you’re looking for a hidden gem away from the usual tourist crowds, this is the place to be!

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