Set deep in the south east of the island are the hills of Kataragama, one of the most important and holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus, Buddhists and Muslims. The town of Kataragama is 18 km from Tissamaharama, and the devout perform pilgrimage here before making any plans for the future, even bringing a new vehicle here on its first journey to be blessed. Visit during festival times in the months of July/August and you would see thousands of pilgrims practice self-mortification in fulfilment of vows to the Gods. Devotees fast, meditate and pray; bathe in the Menik Ganga (River) and then worship at the Maha Devale before facing their ordeal. This includes the famous "fire walking" - when believers walk on a bed of burning, live coal.