During the school holidays, I went to Kataragama with my family. We started our journey in the morning by train.
While travelling on the train we saw long stretches of beautiful beaches. When the train reached Beliatta railway station, we had to proceed to Tissamaharama by bus. We stayed in a hotel Tissamaharama. The next day we went to Kataragama by bus. The Sacred city was crowded with devotees who had come from different parts of the island.
The Menik Ganga was flowing by the Sella Kataragama Devale. After worshipping the images we saw how devotees make vows and break coconuts. Outside the Devale, vendors were selling coconuts, joss sticks, fruits, sweets and souvenirs for the people to take home.
The sacred city was full of people who belonged to many communities such as the Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims and Burghers. There were also many tourists who were carrying offerings to God Skanda. At night, the whole place was illuminated with thousands of electric bulbs. The air we breathed was full of the sweet smells of joss sticks.
We also worshipped the Kirivehera and visited the Kataragama Museum. I will never forget the exciting few days we spent at Kataragama.
I look forward to visiting Kataragama again in the near future.
Thelge Anne Nivani Aurora Peiris
Grade 7
Good Shepherd Convent
Panadura
