Andigala Raja Maha Viharaya is an ancient temple complex dating back to the early Anuradhapura Era lying in the Rajanganaya area. The temple lies at the bottom of a rocky outcrop with a number of drip ledge caves and 2 rock inscriptions believed to be belonging to the 2nd century BC.
According to historians, this area has been a striving commercial center in the ancient past and this temple has been called Digawapi Dwara Viharaya during these days. Angamuwa Wewa which lies close to this temple is believed to be the ancient Ahala Wewa (tank) built by a regional minister called Ahala. The tax collected from the Ahala Tank has been gifted to the Ahalipawatha temple which is believed to be the Andigala Raja Maha Viharaya as known today.
Based on the inscriptions there is also a belief that this temple was built by King Dathopatissa II (659-667) of Anuradhapura Kingdom.
The remains of an ancient cave image house lie at the bottom of the rock. The Buddha statue and other statues in the cave have been destroyed beyond recognition probably by treasure hunters. At the ancient bodhi tree head of a female statue, part of an inscription and a footprint carving of the Buddha can be seen kept aside.
A cleanly cut flight of steps reach the top of the rock. At the top of this rock are ruins of an ancient stupa, a six-foot rock carving and remains of what had been a building. Several rock pools can also be observed scattered among the ruins including one with the shape of the island of Sri Lanka. In addition, this rock provides a glandular view of the surrounding fields and lakes.
The Andigala Rajamaha Viharaya lies 12 kilometres from Thambuttegama Junction on the Rajangana Road.
Also See
Map of Andigala Rajamaha Viharaya
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Travel Directions to Andigala Rajamaha Viharaya
Route from Colombo to Andigala Rajamaha Viharaya | Route from Thambuttegama to Andigala Rajamaha Viharaya |
Through : Negombo – Chilaw – Puttlam – Anuradhapura Road Distance : 190 km Travel time : 4 hours. Driving directions : see on google map | Through : Rajanganaya Road Distance : 12 km Travel time : 20 minutes. Driving directions : see on google map |