Dambadeniya Kingdom and Palace Complex

RATE THIS LOCATION : 1 Star

(21 votes, average: 3.86 out of 5)

Rising majestically above the plains, Dambadeniya Rock was once the royal citadel of a 13th-century kingdom. Its summit reveals palace ruins, ramparts, and breathtaking panoramic views, while nearby temples preserve exquisite frescoes—echoes of a glorious era when Dambadeniya stood as the proud capital of Sri Lanka.

Dambadeniya served as the capital of Sri Lanka for a brief period of approximately 40 years, from about 1232 to 1272. It became a fortified capital during the time of Kalinga Maga, a South Indian invader who had overthrown the Polonnaruwa Kingdom in 1215.

This kingdom was established around the large Dambadeniya Rock now known as Maliga Gala, a prominent feature similar to the more famous Sigiriya. Though not as expansive as Sigiriya, the site remains underappreciated and has not yet gained recognition as a significant tourist destination.

Despite its brief prominence, the remains of Dambadeniya are substantial. Today, the primary attraction is the Dambadeniya Rock, where remnants of the ancient royal palace still stand. The Vijayasundararamaya temple is believed to have been the Temple of the Tooth Relic during this era. Nearby, the Dambadeniya Museum houses a collection of artifacts unearthed from the site.

The Decline of Polonnaruwa

Following the death of King Parakramabahu I in 1186, political instability began to erode the strength of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom. In 1215, Kalinga Maga invaded and deposed King Parakramabahu Pandu. Maga’s 24,000-strong army looted and devastated Polonnaruwa, delivering a decisive blow that led to its collapse.

Establishment of the Dambadeniya Kingdom

As Polonnaruwa fell into chaos, many regional chieftains retreated to the hill country and governed small territories. Among them was Vijayabahu III, who likely began his rule in the Vanni region, as he is referred to as Vanniraja (King of the Vanni) in the Cūḷavaṁsa and Pujavaliya.

Vijayabahu gradually extended his control and ultimately ruled Maya Rata. Achieving this position required many years of struggle, and it was only in his later years that he was recognized as its sovereign.

In selecting the site for his capital, Vijayabahu prioritized strategic advantages. Dambadeniya, with its rocky elevation, offered natural defense and served as a suitable base for launching campaigns against Maga’s forces in Raja Rata. He fortified the rock with walls, gate towers, and other defensive structures.

Safeguarding the Sacred Relics

When Kalinga Maga invaded, the Maha Sangha (monastic community) removed the Tooth Relic and the Bowl Relic of the Buddha from Polonnaruwa and secretly hid them in Kotmale. Many monks fled to southern India for safety.

In 1232, when Maga’s dominance began to fade, Vijayabahu III established his capital at Dambadeniya. He dispatched ministers to India to locate the Maha Sangha. Upon finding the monks, they were informed of the hidden relics. The king, accompanied by the Sangha, traveled to Kotmale, recovered the sacred relics, and ceremoniously returned them to Dambadeniya.

Parakramabahu II and the Height of Dambadeniya

Vijayabahu’s son, Parakramabahu II, succeeded him and ruled until 1270. He is remembered for defeating an Indian king who sought to seize the Tooth Relic. Under his reign, Dambadeniya reached its peak. Located approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Kurunegala, the city flourished as a center of power and religious reverence.

Insights from the “Dambadeni Asna”

The Dambadeni Asna, a historical record of the city, provides detailed descriptions. Outside the temple walls stood guardrooms and royal storage buildings. Several tanks were constructed, and a protective rampart enclosed the city. Prominent streets included Agampadi Vidiya (Mercenaries’ Street), Parivari Vidiya (Attendants’ Street), and Setti Vidiya (Merchants’ Street).

The city housed magistrates, military commanders, and various officials, along with 24,000 Sinhalese soldiers paid by the royal treasury. Also residing there were 900 sculptors, 800 potters, the Sangharaja (chief monk) with the monastic community, 900 elephant keepers including those responsible for the royal elephants, and 890 horse keepers. In addition to these residences, the city contained 75,000 potters’ homes and 75,000 wells.

Without the walls [of the temple] were built watch-houses [guard-rooms] and the royal stores. Several tanks were also constructed, and a rampart was also built around the city, of which the following are the streets: Agampadi Vidiya, “Mercenaries’ Street;” Parivari Vidiya,” Attendants’ Street ” Setti Vidiya, ” Merchants’ or Chetties’ Street.” The Magistrate, the Military Officers, and other chiefs of the different parts of the city dwelt in it, together with 24,000 Sinhalese soldiers paid by the Royal Treasury; 900 sculptors; 800 potters; the priesthood with the Sangaraja; 900 elephant-keepers, including the keepers of the state-elephant; and 890 horse keepers, who belonged to the city. Exclusive of their houses, there were 75,000 houses of the potters and 75,000 wells within the city wall. Not a vestige of the city remains.

Today, none of these structures remain intact.

Exploring the Present-Day Site

Though large-scale excavations have not been undertaken, visitors can still observe remains of the palace, the Temple of the Tooth, and six ponds believed to be bathing pools. Climbing the rock offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

A short walk from the main complex leads to Vijayasundaramaya, a restored 18th-century temple featuring Buddha statues and wall paintings, preserving echoes of Dambadeniya’s ancient grandeur.

Dambadeniya Rock—Opening Hours

Access to Dambadeniya is unrestricted. However, the best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the evening, when the sun is less intense.

Dambadeniya Rock—Ticket Prices / Entrance Fees

Access to the rock is free of charge, and no tickets are required for entry.

A rock query at the Dambadeniya Rock Fortress.

Part of the Palace Complex at the Dambadeniya Rock Fortress

Waduwaketu Gala seen from the Dambadeniya Rock Fortress

Signs of buildings on the Dambadeniya Rock Fortress

References

Liyanagamage, A., 1963. The Decline of Polonnaruwa Kingdom and the Rise of Dambadeniya (circa 1180 – 1270 AD) (unpublished). Doctor of Philosophy. University of London.

Also See

Map of Dambadeniya Kingdom and Palace Complex

Click on the button below to load the Dynamic Google Map

Show Location on Google Maps

The map above also shows other places of interest within a approximately 20 km radius of the current site. Click on any of the markers and the info box to take you to information of these sites

Zoom out the map to see more surrounding locations using the mouse scroll wheel or map controls.

Traveling Directions to Dambadeniya Kingdom and Palace Complex

Route from Colombo to Dambadeniya Kingdom and Palace Complex

Through : Wattala – Minuwangoda – Diwulapitiya – Giriulla – Dambadeniya
distance : 66 km
Travel time : 1.45 hours
Driving Directions : see on google maps