In the deep south of the country is a shrine dedicated to God Skanda (Murugan) the God of Love and War and is believed as a Devala started in the 2nd
Century B.C. by King Dutugemunu (167 –137 B.C.).

Today Kataragama is a place of worship for Buddhists, Hindus and some Muslims.

This is a very popular place of pilgrimage for south Indian Hindus as Kataragama God came from India, married a Jungle Girl and lived here. When his Indian wife came in search of him he refused to go back. All of them lived here happily.
There are separate shrines for the two wives Tevani Amman Kovil for the Indian wife and Valli Amman Kovil for the Sri Lankan wife.

During the month of July a 10-day festival is held here with the Perahera, Fire walking, hanging on hooks and other penance’s.

The best time to be in the Devala is at the time of the Pooja (Offerings) to see the rituals and the Virgin Dancing girls offering light and dancing in the Devala.