More than anything Kataragama is known for the Kataragama temple, a temple dedicated to the resident six-faced, twelve-armed god Kataragama who rides a peacock with two wives. Kataragama Deviyo (god) is one of the most holy gods in Sri Lanka. Among Buddhists he is a guardian of Buddhism, among Hindus he is the god of war. Hindus or Tamils also call him “Skanda Kumara” or “Murugan”. It is a must visit place to experience how devotees from different cultures, and various parts of the island pay their respects to the god.

Many believe that the temple was built by King Dutugemunu in 2nd-century BC, while there are many others who believe that the temple has been there even before that. However it is the single most holy place among Buddhists, Catolicos, Hindus, Muslims and Veddah people in Sri Lanka.

Kataragama Temple is located just about 55km away from Wild Escape Hotel in Buttala which is a 01 hour drive one way.