Hiniduma Calvary Shrine
Calvary Shrine of hiniduma is a very famous church in Galle District. Administered under the Galle diocese it is a holy place for Sri Lankan Catholics. The Shrine is a replica of Calvary mount, Jerusalem where crucifixion of Jesus took place. Shrine is situated in small hill named Kurusakanda next to St. Anne's Church Hiniduma and Gin River flowing between the church and the Shrine.
Shrine was founded in 1948 by Rev. Fr. Cyril Edirisighe. He witnessed a wildfire in the 18 acre land that belonged to the church which included the hill itself. After the fire a burnt tree was the only thing left on the summit resembling a cross. This tree became the first inspiration for the shrine. Soon this shrine was found on the site and in 1954 shrine was identified as a diocesan shrine.
Pilgrimage is arranged to travel around the small hill lined with statues depicting cruxification of Jesus in 12 different locations. Top of the hill is marked by a large Cross and a small church.
People who find it difficult to climb the hill which is a bit lengthy journey could visit the small shrine established along the banks of Gin river comparating the crucifixion of Jesus.
Shrine attracts thousands of Catholics in the lent season. People of other faiths also visit the shrine. Apart from the religious value this place offers a beautiful view of the region. You can see remains of the old bridge which was destroyed by a flood inside the Gin River.
How to Reach
Can be easily reached using the Southern Expressway. Use either Baddegama or Kurudugahahethekma exits. Then reach Udugama via Mapalagama. Use the Thawalama Udugama road to reach the shrine
Some Notable Places of Interest.
- Etha Mala Ella
- Sinharaja Rain Forest
- Kanneliya Rain Forest
- Patna View Point
- Getambaruwa Raja maha viharaya
- Elumaldeniya Raja Maha Viharaya
- Sath Mala Ella
- Neluwa Dooli Ella and etc
Comments
Post a Comment