Welcome to Pahiyangala – Where History Meets Nature
Welcome to the official platform of Pahiyangala Cave, also known as Fa-Hien Lena—a site of global archaeological significance, spiritual heritage, and eco-tourism potential located in Yatagampitiya, Bulathsinhala, Sri Lanka.
Named after the Chinese monk Fa-Hien, who is believed to have rested here during his pilgrimage to Adam’s Peak, this cave is Asia’s oldest known prehistoric human shelter—a cultural treasure dating back over 45,000 years.
Our mission is to protect, educate, and sustainably develop this iconic site by connecting history, nature, community, and global citizens.
What Makes Pahiyangala Unique
Archaeological Significance
Pahiyangala is home to:
Burial remains dated to 38,000 BP
Evidence of Late Pleistocene habitation
Stone artefacts, grindstones, and faunal remains
Layers excavated from 5 distinct cultural periods, revealing uninterrupted prehistoric occupation
Documented collaboration with Stirling University, UK (2005)
The site is detailed in our exclusive eBook: “Prehistoric Sri Lanka – A Journey Through Pahiyangala Cave”, featuring:
Stratigraphic diagrams
Photos from the 1986 and 2009 excavations
Burial records and interpretations
Research from Deraniyagala, Wijeyapala, Kennedy, and others
What We Do
🧭 Promote Eco-Tourism
We welcome visitors to explore hiking trails, forest treks, natural springs, and the legendary Pahiyangala Cave Monastery.
📚 Educate & Preserve Heritage
We work closely with archaeologists and historians to document findings, offer educational resources, and share research through eBooks and exhibits.
🤝 Empower Local Communities
All donations and support go directly to village upliftment—clean water, schools, temple restoration, and nature conservation projects.
🎁 Facilitate Global Participation
Whether you’re a traveler, researcher, donor, or volunteer, our platform allows you to engage and contribute in meaningful ways.