Sella Kataragama
A serene temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, located in a picturesque setting a few kilometers from the main Kataragama temple complex. Plan your Sella Kataragama temple visit as part of your Kataragama pilgrimage.
Temple Overview
Sella Kataragama is a tranquil Hindu temple located a few kilometers away from the main Kataragama temple complex. The temple is primarily dedicated to Lord Ganesha (also known as Ganapathi), who is revered as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and new beginnings.
Set in a picturesque location surrounded by natural beauty, Sella Kataragama offers a more peaceful and less crowded alternative to the main temple complex. The site includes a small temple, a cave, and a serene river, creating an ideal environment for meditation and spiritual reflection.
Religious Significance
In Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha is the elder son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. At Sella Kataragama, he is worshipped as the brother of Lord Murugan (Skanda/Kataragama), the main deity of the Kataragama temple complex. Devotees often visit Sella Kataragama to seek Lord Ganesha's blessings before proceeding to the main temple, as it is customary to pay respects to Ganesha before worshipping other deities.
Historical Context
While the exact origins of Sella Kataragama are not as well-documented as the main temple, it has been an important part of the Kataragama pilgrimage for centuries. The temple is believed to have been established to honor the familial connection between Lord Ganesha and Lord Murugan in Hindu tradition, creating a complete pilgrimage experience for devotees visiting the area.
Temple Features
Rituals & Worship
Photo Gallery
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
6:00 AM - 7:00 PM daily
Entry Fee
Free (Donations appreciated)
Location
Few kilometers from main Kataragama temple complex
Dress Code
Modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering.
Best Time to Visit
Morning Hours
Early morning (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM) is ideal for a peaceful visit, with fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere. The morning puja is also a beautiful ceremony to witness.
Tuesdays
Tuesdays are considered especially auspicious for worshipping Lord Ganesha. Special rituals are performed, and the temple has a particularly vibrant atmosphere on these days.
Festival Times
Vinayaka Chaturthi (usually in August-September) is the most important festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple is beautifully decorated, and special ceremonies are conducted during this time.
The dry season (December to March) offers the most pleasant weather conditions for visiting. During the Esala Perahera festival in Kataragama (July-August), Sella Kataragama also sees increased activity but remains less crowded than the main temple complex.
Getting There
Sella Kataragama is located a few kilometers from the main Kataragama temple complex. Here are the ways to reach it:
Other Sacred Sites in Kataragama
Explore more spiritual destinations in and around Kataragama.
Kataragama Temple
A sacred pilgrimage site revered by Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and indigenous Vedda people.
Learn MoreMenik Ganga
The sacred river where pilgrims perform ritual bathing before visiting the temple.
Learn MoreExperience the Serenity of Sella Kataragama
Visit this peaceful temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha and discover a tranquil side of Kataragama.