Most Venerable Karandulena Dhammagaveshi Thero, the Chief Advisor and Director of the Dhamma Center, has dedicated his monastic life to preserving the noble traditions of Sri Lankan forest Buddhism. Having lived and practiced in the remote rural regions of Sri Lanka, he developed a profound appreciation for the harmony between spiritual cultivation and the natural world.

In 2006, Venerable Dhammagaveshi Thero received his higher ordination at the historic Karandulena Forest Monastery, a sacred place that has remained deeply connected to his spiritual journey. He also undertook the restoration and development of the monastery while faithfully preserving its ancient character and pristine environment.

Karandulena Forest Monastery is nestled amidst a breathtaking landscape of towering rock formations, ancient caves, crystal-clear natural ponds, and dense forests rich in biodiversity. The surrounding wilderness has long been a natural habitat for elephants, deer, and many other native species. Throughout his work, Venerable Dhammagaveshi Thero ensured that no harm came to the environment, respecting the delicate balance between human life and nature.

Inspired by the traditional ideals of forest monasticism, he used his architectural creativity to design and construct simple meditation huts, or kutis, for monks seeking seclusion and intensive practice. These kutis were carefully integrated into the natural surroundings, with some sheltered beneath massive rock overhangs that serve as natural roofs. The dwellings provide peaceful sanctuaries where monks can live in solitude, devote themselves to meditation, and follow the ancient way of life practiced by generations of forest ascetics.

The monastery also preserves an extraordinary historical legacy. Ancient rock caves within the sacred grounds bear inscriptions that date back many centuries. According to local tradition and historical understanding, these caves were once inhabited by arahants and early Buddhist monastics who dedicated their lives to meditation and the realization of the Dhamma. These inscriptions and sacred sites continue to bear witness to Sri Lanka’s enduring forest monastic heritage.

Today, Karandulena Forest Monastery stands as a remarkable expression of our spiritual heritage. Its serene caves, majestic rocks, tranquil ponds, secluded kutis, and untouched wilderness inspire all who visit. The monastery remains a sanctuary of peace, preserving the timeless values of simplicity, renunciation, mindfulness, and reverence for nature, while continuing the noble legacy of Sri Lanka’s ancient forest tradition for future generations.