Danagirigala Rajamaha Viharaya

Danagirigala Rajamaha Viharaya lies on remote picturesque mountain off Mawanella. The temple is believed to be built by King Walagamba during the 1st century. The rock inscriptions at the site dates this temple complex to a period even before – to the pre Christian era. To reach the temple you need to climb 367 granite steps. These steps are engraved deep in the history of the country.

The cave image house is small and but fortunately still preserves the traditional Kandyan Era paintings and designs. But unfortunately, being in such a remote location, treasure looters have had a field day inside the cave. An exquisite wooden Makara Thorana (Dragons Arch) and a gold plated Buddha statue in the temple was stolen some time ago. These had been recovered and now displayed at the National Museum in Colombo.

The Buddha statues had been dug as well as the small stupa inside the cave in search of treasures.

You will find 4 Buddha statues of sitting posture and six standing Buddha statues, all still preserving the original Kandyan styles. In addition an eight foot statue of Lewke Dissawe can also be seen in the cave.

Outside the cave image house, you will find a ancient Bodhigara constructed with large granite blocks.

In addition you will also see remains of many ancient buildings scattered all around the area.

Rev. Ambulugala Dhamminda Thero

• Lecturer of Daham University
• Lecturer Polabegoda Sri Sudarshanarama Maha Pirivena
• Head of Kariyagama Gunarathana Dhamma School
• Chairman of Rural Development Society
• Registrar of the Samapri Bhikkus Panel of the Galabada Koralaya
• Justice of Peace

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