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Ganeuda Purana Viharaya lies in the Warakagoda area which is believed to be an ancient sub-kingdom built by Vijaya Epa (1399-1415). However, according to a pamphlet issued by the temple, the history of this temple and its ruins goes as far as the Polonnaruwa kingdom. The temple itself is not significant but the ruins on the temple grounds are believed to be of the palace complex and a temple of tooth of the Warakagoda Kingdom of Pasyodun Rata, the ancient name of Kalutara.
According to the Great Chronical Mahasamsa, Prince Manabharana fought King Jayabahu (1110-1111) of Polonnaruwa kingdom and on his defeat retreated to Pasyodun (Pas-Yodun) Koralaya where Manabharana had hidden in a fortress built by him. Some believe the ruins at the temple is part of this fortress built by him while some believe he hid in the caves of Warakagoda Purana Gallen Rajamaha Viharaya a few kilometres away from this temple.
Passing the new buildings of the temple, you will reach two ancient buildings conserved by the Department of Archaeology. The building identified as the palace is small and consists of 8 granite pillars and a foundation. The pillars and the pillar heads are carved with simple designs. There are indications of a Wahalkada and ruins of granite steps to this building. Unfortunately, the bottom part of the staircase now lies on private property. A slab inscription close to the entrance which existed till recently has been stolen. One of the granite steps is carved with the words “Sri Sangabo Sri” with a royal emblem.
At a higher elevation to this building lies what is now believed to be the Dalada Mandiraya (Temple of Tooth). This structure consists of 16 granite pillars. On one side is a polished granite slab which could have been a flower alter.
In addition, broken Korawak Gal (balustrades), moonstones and flat clay tiles can be found scattered around these ruins.
To reach the temple travel to Warakagoda from Kalutara ( approx 24km) and from the Warakagoda junction take the Sirigunarathana Road towards the Geekiyanakanda Estate. The temple lies 600 meters down this road.
Also See
Map of Warakagoda Ganeuda Purana Rajamaha Viharaya
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Travel Directions to Warakagoda Ganeuda Purana Rajamaha Viharaya
| Route from Colombo to Warakagoda Ganeuda Purana Rajamaha Viharaya | Route from Kalutara to Warakagoda Ganeuda Purana Rajamaha Viharaya |
| Through : Southern Expressway – Genaligama – Horana – Anguruwathota Distance : 62 km Travel time : 1.5 hours Driving directions : see on google map | Through : Neboda Distance : 24 km Travel time : 30 minutes Driving directions : see on google map |
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