Dankumbura Purana Gallen Rajamaha Viharaya (දංකුඹුර පුරාණ ගල්ලෙන් රජමහා විහාරය)

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Dankumbura Purana Gallen Rajamaha Viharaya is considered one of the major Buddhist temples in the Mahiyangana area in ancient Ceylon. This ancient cave temple lies on the Bibile and Padiyathalawa close to Ekiriyakumbura.

The origin of the temple is believed to go as far back as King Walagamba (89-77 BC). It has been neglected by authorities and has been a target for treasure hunters several times in the past.  According to the chief prelate of the Dankumbura Rajamaha Viharaya, this temple had been deserted and covered in jungle for over 800 years before it was discovered and cleared up for worship about 250 years ago by a ‘Kos Keda Hevene’.

Rock pillars, guard stones and a few balustrades can be seen scattered in the temple premises but the ancient cave temple is the most important archaeological artefact in the temple. Inside there is a 27-foot ( 18 riyan) reclining Buddha statue and a massive bowl (Pattaraya) belonging to the ancient era. The image house has been vandalised by treasure hunters several times in the recent past and as a result, the Buddha images show cracks in the structure.

photo and information by the curtsey of Dr. Ashan Geeganage

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Travel Directions to Dankumbura Purana Gallen Rajamaha Viharaya

Route from Bibile to Dankumbura Purana Gallen Rajamaha Viharaya
Through : Padiyathalawa Road
Distance : 19 km
Travel time :30 minutes
Driving directions : see on Google map

Map of Dankumbura Purana Gallen Rajamaha Viharaya

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