reddottours

Thought monasteries were only for male monks? This one is different 👇

Just outside Kandy, there is a female-only Buddhist monastery where bhikkunis live and practise full ordination. This tradition began over 2,500 years ago with Mahapajapati Gotami, the first woman to request ordination from the Buddha, and it continues today through study, meditation, and religious service.

Visits like this aren’t common. Access depends on permission and the right introductions. When appropriate, our team can arrange a guided visit that explains the role of the nunnery within Sri Lanka’s Buddhist tradition, with proper context and care.

You walk through meditation halls, gardens, and sacred spaces such as the Bodhi tree and stupa, with a local guide explaining how these places are used day to day. There’s also time to speak directly with a bhikkuni about her life, her beliefs, and the routine she follows, insight most visitors never have the chance to gain.

Follow along to see more Red Dot experiences that go a little deeper, and save this post for when you’re ready to start planning your trip to Sri Lanka 🙏

🔗 https://www.reddottours.com/experience/sri-lanka/kandy-nunnery