-By Political Correspondent
(Lanka-e-News -05.March.2025, 11.00 PM) Sri Lanka has long been a destination for cultural and historical tourism, drawing visitors to its ancient ruins, golden beaches, and vibrant festivals. But beyond the well-trodden paths of Sigiriya and Anuradhapura lies a lesser-known marvel—Namal Uyana, a sanctuary where nature, spirituality, and history intertwine.
Hon. Vijitha Herath, in his recent address on 4th of March 2025, emphasized the need to promote spiritual tourism in Sri Lanka and encouraged people from around the world to visit Namal Uyana, a unique ecological and religious landmark founded and nurtured by Ven. Wanawasi Rahula Thero. For the past 24 years, this sacred site has been a beacon of Sri Lanka’s national heritage, environmental conservation, and spiritual renewal.
Nestled in the heart of the country, Jathika Namal Uyana is no ordinary forest. Spanning over 250 acres, it is home to the largest ironwood (Na) tree forest in Sri Lanka. The Na tree, revered in Buddhism, is not only the national tree of Sri Lanka but also a symbol of spiritual enlightenment and resilience.
As you step into the forest, the budding Na leaves paint a scene of ethereal beauty—often compared poetically to the lips of a young maiden, gently kissed by the morning sun. The rustling leaves whisper ancient stories, carrying the wisdom of centuries past.
Recognizing its unique ecological and spiritual value, the Sri Lankan government declared Namal Uyana a National Heritage Site on April 26, 2005, placing it under the protection of the Department of Wildlife Conservation. This official recognition was not just a legal safeguard but an acknowledgment of the tireless efforts of Ven. Wanawasi Rahula Thero, the guardian of this sacred land.
While Namal Uyana itself is a wonder, one of its most remarkable features is a Mora tree of profound significance. This ancient tree did not merely provide shade; it provided sanctuary.
It was under this very Mora tree that Ven. Wanawasi Rahula Thero found shelter as he dedicated himself to protecting and preserving Namal Uyana. At a time when this dense forest was home to wild elephants, venomous snakes, and other threats, this tree became his protector, shielding him from the dangers lurking in the wilderness.
What is even more fascinating is the spiritual symbolism of this event—a monk, choosing solitude in the depths of nature, relying solely on the protection of a single tree. It is a testament to the deep-rooted connection between Sri Lanka’s spiritual traditions and its natural wonders.
As if the lush forest weren’t enough, Namal Uyana also boasts one of the most ancient pink quartz mountains in the world. Estimated to be over 550 million years old, this stunning rock formation is believed to have provided the pink-hued quartz for the construction of India’s Taj Mahal.
Standing atop the quartz mountain, one is struck by the sheer magnitude of time—the realization that these very stones have witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations. The energy here is almost tangible, making it a perfect destination for spiritual reflection, meditation, and connection with nature.
Hon. Vijitha Herath rightfully advocates for spiritual tourism as a pathway to economic and cultural revival. At a time when the world is searching for wellness, mindfulness, and deeper connections, Sri Lanka has a unique offering—places like Namal Uyana that merge spiritual depth with environmental conservation.
Unlike mainstream tourism, which often prioritizes luxury and entertainment, spiritual tourism attracts travelers seeking inner peace, cultural immersion, and eco-friendly experiences. Namal Uyana is the perfect embodiment of this philosophy.
For Buddhists, it offers a place of meditation and reflection, surrounded by trees that are historically and religiously significant.
For nature lovers, it is a biodiversity hotspot, home to rare flora and fauna.
For history enthusiasts, it is a living museum, where trees, rocks, and landscapes tell stories that textbooks cannot.
As Sri Lanka positions itself as a hub for eco-tourism and spiritual travel, Namal Uyana could become a premier international destination. Imagine a retreat center where monks, scholars, and seekers from around the world gather for meditation, study, and dialogue.
With proper infrastructure, sustainable tourism practices, and global awareness, this national treasure could uplift both the local economy and the global perception of Sri Lanka as a sanctuary for the soul.
In a world that moves too fast, Namal Uyana offers a pause—a deep breath—a moment of stillness. As Hon. Vijitha Herath urges, it’s time for Sri Lankans and international travelers alike to rediscover this forgotten sanctuary.
The journey to Namal Uyana is not just a physical one. It is a journey into the past, into the self, and perhaps—into something divine.
So, when will you visit?
-By Political Correspondent
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by (2025-03-05 18:00:22)
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