Namal Pokuna Aramaic Complex at Dimbulagala is situated on same road leading to the famous Dimbulagala Raja Maha Viharaya from Polonnaruwa but few kilometers before. This is also built on the same rocky mountain range which Dimbulagala stands but this place seems to be rarely visited. Therefore the unspoilt nature and the ancient monuments standing alone inside the forest makes this a very enjoyable trip.
At the entrance on the ground level are newer buildings where the dwellings of the priests are situated. From here you have to walk about ¾ kilometers towards the top of the mountain. There are few places you have to climb, but in general it’s a pleasurable walk with a mild climb.
We were also accompanied by the temple dog all the way to the top and directed us when we were not sure which way to go. (we were the only people there) Once we were at the top, he walked us to all the monuments one by one.
Passing the main site, there are caves which priests sat in meditation and a pond, but this area has not been cleared and is covered by jungle. A path through this jungle leads to the Ancient Akasa Chaithiya on the summit of Dimbulagala.
Unlike Dimbulagala Raja Maha Viharaya which is now renovated and lost its ancient look, this temple has gone through very minimum restoration just enough to stop further destruction. It was said that there is a jungle path from this monastery to Dimbulagala which has been used in ancient times.
Also See
Map of Dimbulagala Namal Pokuna Aramic Complex
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Travel Directions to Dimbulagala Namal Pokuna Aramic Complex
The modern town of Polonnaruwa is also known as New Town, and the other part of Polonnaruwa remains the royal ancient city of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa.
Route from Colombo to Polonnaruwa Sacred City | Route from Kandy to Polonnaruwa Sacred City |
Through : Central Highway – Kurunegala – Dambulla Distance from Colombo :230 km Travel Time : 4.45 hours Driving Directions : see on Google map | Through : Matale – Dambulla – Habarana Distance : 140 km Travel Time : 3.5 hours Driving Directions : see on Google maps |
Route from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa Sacred City | Route from Batticaloa to Polonnaruwa Sacred City |
Though : Maradankadawala – Habarana Distance : 103 km Travel Time : 2 hours Driving Directions : see on Google map | Though : Chenkaladi – Valachchena Distance : 97 km Travel Time : 2 hours Driving Directions : see on Google map |
Route from Polonnaruwa to Dimbulagala Namal Pokuna Aramic Complex |
Through : Kaduruwela – Manampitiya Distance :20 km Travel time : 30 mins. Driving directions : see on google map |
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