Following the analytical insights of the great forest lineages
Seethawanaarana:
The Cool Forest Monastery
The Foundation of Our Practice
Living the Heritage of the Buddha
At Seethawana Aranya, our practice is rooted in the original instructions of the Supreme Buddha. We strive to maintain a “Supesala” monastic life—one characterized by discipline, simplicity, and a total dedication to the path of liberation.
A Vow of Renunciation
Following the sacred Vinaya (monastic code), the venerable monks of our lineage do not touch, handle, or possess money in any form. This commitment ensures that the Sangha remains free from worldly attachments, focusing entirely on spiritual development and the preservation of the Dhamma. Because of this noble vow, all essential needs and land acquisitions are managed exclusively through our dedicated lay custodians.
The Ancient Path of Pindapatha
Each morning, our monks walk the traditional path of Pindapatha (alms-round) through the neighboring villages, just as it was done during the Buddha’s time. This daily ritual is more than a means of sustenance; it is a sacred bridge between the Sangha and the community, allowing lay practitioners to cultivate merit through the act of giving (Dana).
Harmony with Nature
Our practice extends to the preservation of the forest and its ancient history. By utilizing the historic stone caves once inhabited by Arahants, we honor a lineage of solitude that has existed for millennia. We believe that by protecting this disciplined way of life, we ensure that the light of the Sambuddha Sasana continues to shine for future generations.
Our Sacred Vision
The Search for Solitude
For a long time, the aspiration has been to establish a sanctuary for “Supesala” (disciplined) monks who seek profound silence to engage in meditation.
Historical Significance
After years of searching across Sri Lanka, this 13-acre land was discovered—a site where ancient stone caves (Kataram) used by Arahants still stand.
Dhamma Preservation
Our mission is to protect this sacred ground for the longevity of the Sambuddha Sasana.
Our Identity
Strict Monastic Discipline
We prioritize a life that strictly adheres to the Vinaya (monastic code). Our monks do not handle money and live in simple, natural settings rather than modern permanent buildings.
Monastic & Lay Connection
While the monks live in seclusion, the location was specifically chosen for its proximity to villages, allowing for the traditional daily alms-round (Pindapata).
State Recognition
We operate with the approval of the Department of Archaeology and the Department of Forest Conservation to ensure the ancient caves remain a place of worship and practice.
The Current Mission: A Call for Support
A Decade of Preparation
The journey toward establishing Seethawana Aranya has been a meticulous one. For the last decade, we have been searching across Sri Lanka for a land that meets the highest standards of monastic discipline (Vinaya). Our goal was to find a location that is naturally secluded, historically significant, and spiritually vibrant.
Establishing the Foundation
Having finally discovered a 13-acre property with ancient Arahant caves, our current mission is to secure this land and lay the foundation for a permanent sanctuary of Dhamma. We are now planning to complete the essential foundation work and basic infrastructure by May 2026. This will ensure that the hermitage is ready to support “Supesala” monks in their pursuit of solitude and meditation
Your Invitation to the Path of Merit
Because this project involves a significant investment of 29 million rupees, we rely on the collective support of our community. As our monks do not handle financial matters, we invite you to coordinate with our Chief Lay Custodians to share in this rare meritorious act. Your contribution today helps build a foundation that will serve the Sambuddha Sasana for generations to come.
Our Spiritual Patrons
Most Ven.
Pitigala Gunarathna Thero
Ven.
Illukegama Aththadassi Thero
Ven.
Verapitiye Devananda Thero
Most Ven.
Rathgama Wevika Wihari Thero
