Divurumpola Temple, Sri Lanka

Divurumpola is a small temple beside the road from Nuwara Eliya to Welimada, about 15 km from Nuwara Eliya. In Ramayana tradition, this is the place where Sita underwent the Agni Pariksha, the trial by fire, to prove her purity after Rama had rescued her from Ravana. The name is usually translated as "place of the oath", and local people have long come here to swear oaths and settle disputes.

The legend

In the epic, Sita steps into a fire after the war and comes out unharmed, protected by the fire god Agni, which proves her innocence to the world. Sri Lankan tradition places that event here. As with all the island's Ramayana sites, the link rests on faith and local legend, not on archaeology, but for many Hindu visitors it is one of the most moving stops on the trail. Our Ramayana sites guide explains how the places fit together.

What to see

Divurumpola is a Buddhist temple today, and the site reflects both faiths.

• The bo tree and shrine mark the spot that tradition links with the fire ordeal. Pilgrims walk around it and leave offerings.
• Paintings and statues tell the story of Rama, Sita and Hanuman, alongside a Buddhist image house and a white stupa.
• A small Hindu shrine stands in the grounds, and you will often see visitors from India praying here.

The temple is modest and peaceful, and it's nothing like the busy shrines of the big towns. Allow 30 to 45 minutes.

Visiting

Cover your shoulders and knees, and take off your shoes and hat before entering the temple area. Donations are welcome, and there may be a small charge for visitors. Photography is usually fine outside, but ask before taking photos of people at prayer. See our etiquette guide for more on temple manners.

Mornings are the best time, with clearer weather in the hills. The driest months here are generally January to April.

Getting there

The temple is on the main road between Nuwara Eliya and Welimada, around 30 to 40 minutes' drive from Nuwara Eliya. Buses on this route pass the entrance, though a private vehicle or tuk-tuk is much easier. It fits naturally into the same morning as Seetha Amman Temple and Hakgala Botanical Garden, which lie on the same road, and it's on the way if you're travelling on to Ella. Our 7-day Ramayana itinerary shows where it falls on a full tour.