About Us
Our Story
Our History
The Island Hermitage was founded on July 9, 1911, by Venerable Nyanatiloka Mahathera, a pioneering German monk. It holds the unique distinction of being the first center of Theravāda Buddhist study and practice established primarily by and for Westerners.
Officially Established
In 1914, the island of Polgasduwa was officially purchased and donated to the Sangha by a Swiss supporter, Monsieur Bergier. Despite the heavy interruptions of two World Wars—during which Ven. Nyanatiloka and other European monks faced internment—the hermitage was continually rebuilt and expanded. Later, the adjacent island of Metiduwa was added to the sanctuary, graciously donated by Lady Evadne de Silva
A Legacy of Scholarship
The hermitage has been home to some of the most influential figures in modern Theravada Buddhism. Monks and laymen residing here have mastered the Pali language, translated vast sections of the Pali Canon, and authored foundational books on Buddhist philosophy.
Ven. Nyanaponika Thera
Renowned scholar and co-founder of the Buddhist Publication Society.
Ven. Ñāṇamoli
English monk famous for his masterful translation of Buddhaghosa’s Visuddhimagga.
Ven. Ñāṇavīra
Author of the highly regarded Notes on Dhamma.
The Present Chief Monk.
Venerable Rajgama Wiwekawihari thero is the current spiritual leader and Abbot of the Polgasduwa Island Hermitage. Known for his profound kindness and deep knowledge of the Dhamma, he has dedicated his life to the pursuit of enlightenment and the guidance of others. His teachings emphasize the integration of mindfulness and moral conduct (Sīla) into daily life, making the path of the Dhamma accessible to everyone.