Kumarapeliya Ambalama in Kurunegala (කුරුණෑගල කුමාරපේළිය අම්බලම)

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In the Sinhalese encyclopedia (Volume 1, Page 696-1963 First Edition) Ambalama is defined as a kind of hall erected by the side of the road for the benefit of wayfarers to relax on the way, as vehicles were rare in ancient times.

It was believed that to build these Ambalam for the use of travelers is a meritorious deed and to pollute them is an unpardonable sin. On this belief people of means did not hesitate to construct these resting places on suitable locations and. They tried. Their best to keep- them spick and span.

In some of these ambalamas there had been planks erected as seats on different levels. It was said, specially when there were discussions on matters relating to the village with the elders and the chiefs of the village, those who gather there are expected to occupy the seats according to their age, status and sometimes according to their castes as well.

Ambalamas built during later periods were simple utilitarian buildings. They were mostly built near or at large paddy fields mainly intended for the farmers and villagers to gather.

The Ambalama at Kumarapeliya is built of stone and cemented with the mix of clay. The history of this Ambalama is not known but this lies underneath a massive Bakmee Tree which is 20-25 feet in Hight. The tree has unusually large knots all over its trunk. It is said such knots develop only after 450-500 years of a Bakmee tree.

According to legend, the pond near this Ambalama was frequented by princes (කුමාරවරු) who came to bath and play in the ancient times. Therefore this area was known as Kumara Peraliya and with time it has become Kumarapeliya.

According to the legend, there has been 3 Ambalamas on this route for the pilgrims who were traveling to the historic Wattarama Rajamaha Viharaya in the past. They were Algama, Kumarapeliya and Udapola. Out of the three only Kumarapeliya Ambalama exsits today.

This ambalama too was dilapidated and the roof had fallen in due to lack of maintenance. Since no authority was taking interest in this building, youth of the village had got together and rebuilt the roof replacing the damaged wooden beams an repaired the structure.

Traveling 3 km from Polgahawela towards Kurunegala, you will come across Kahawatte Ela Junction. From this junction. Traveling 2.4 km on this road will bring you to the Udapola Junction and take the Thalwatte Gedara Road. The ancient Mayurawathi Rajamaha Viharaya lies 1.8 km down this road. Just as you pass this temple you will come across a narrow concrete road and the Kumarapeliya Ambalama is found 500 meters down this lane adjoining a paddy field.

The Ambalama today serves as a resting place for the farmers of the adjoining paddyfields.

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Map of Kumarapeliya Ambalama in Kurunegala

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Travel Directions to Kumarapeliya Ambalama in Kurunegala

From Polgahawela to Kumarapeliya Ambalama

Via :Kurunegala road -Kahawatte Ela Junction – Udapola
Total distance: 8 km
Duration : 20 minutes
Time to spend: About 15-20 minutes
Driving Directions : View on Google Maps

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Also See

Map of Kumarapeliya Ambalama in Kurunegala

Travel Directions to Kumarapeliya Ambalama in Kurunegala

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