Sri Lanka is fortunate in possessing the largest natural cave in Asia. This cave is  commonly known as Pahiyangala or Fahiyangala which was derived from the name Fa Hsien, for it appears that our 5th century Chinese pilgrim visited the cave during his two-year sojourn in the island. Gala means “rock”, so the name literally means “Fa Hsien’s Rock”.

 
It’s located on a motorable road at Yatigampitiya, a village 5km from the town of Bulathsinhala in the Western Province. This makes the cave conveniently situated for visitors staying on the west coast at such places as Mount Lavinia, Panadura, Kalutara, Beruwela and Bentota. In fact it constitutes a perfect day trip; a worthwhile escape from the beach.