About This E-Book
Sri Lanka Forest TraditionThe Association of Sri Kalyāni Yōgāshrama Saṁsthā Hermitages celebrated its 75th Establishment Anniversary on June 18, 2026, marking three-quarters of a century as Sri Lanka's largest and strictest forest monastic sect.
Founded on June 18, 1951, by Venerable Kadawedduwe Sri Jinavamsa Mahathera and Venerable Matara Sri Nanarama Mahathera, the organization was created to preserve traditional monastic discipline (Vinaya) during the 2500th Buddha Jayanti era.
Core Structure and Identity
- Headquarters: Located at the Galduva Aranya in Ambalangoda, which serves as the central monastery and ordination venue.
- Lineage: An independent forest branch within the Amarapura–Rāmañña Nikāya ordination line.
- Distinction: Recognized for enforcing the highest standards of Vinaya (monastic codes) in Sri Lanka.
- Visual Identity: Monks are easily identified by their signature palm-leaf umbrellas and the strict habit of wearing the double robe (Sanghati) outside monastery grounds.
- Inclusivity: Breaks historical caste barriers by opening ordination to all individuals regardless of caste.
Notable Branch Hermitages
Over its 75-year history, the association has expanded across Sri Lanka and internationally, featuring prominent hermitages such as:
- Na Uyana Aranya: A massive international meditation hub specializing in Pa-Auk Samatha Vipassana techniques.
- Meethirigala Nissarana Vanaya: Highly respected for strict insight meditation.
- Nimalawa Aranya: Historically significant as the organization's very first forest monastery.
- Global Branches: Includes international meditation properties like the Springhill Forest Monastery and affiliations supporting the Dhamsuwa Meditation Centre.
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