Isinbassagala Ruwangiri Rajamaha Viharaya

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Isinbassagala Ruwangiri Rajamaha Viharaya

The Isinbassagala Raja Maha Viharaya is a striking rock temple in Medawachchiya founded by King Devānampiya Tissa. Named “the rock where the sage descended,” it features ancient Nāga Gala and Srī Pathul Gala relics, symbolizing the transition from tribal rituals to early symbolic Buddhist worship.

About 1.4 kilometers (0.9 miles) past the small town of Medawachchiya along the A9 highway from Kandy to Jaffna lies the striking Isinbassagala Raja Maha Viharaya, a temple perched atop a prominent rock. The name Isinbassagala translates to “the rock from which the sage came to,” linking the site to ancient Buddhist legends.

Origins and Ancient Relics

According to oral tradition, this temple complex is believed to have been founded by King Devanampiyatissa (250–210 BCE) soon after the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka. The stupa seen today is a reconstruction from the early 20th century, built upon the same sacred spot where the original stupa once stood. Excavations at the site have unearthed several remarkable relics, including an ancient Naga Gala (cobra-carved stone) and Sri Pathul Gala (stones displaying the footprints of the Buddha).

Evolution of Worship

According to the chief monk residing at the temple, Isinbassagala reflects two distinct stages in Sri Lanka’s evolution of worship. He explains that the Cobra Stone (Naga Gala) represents the early ritual practices of the Naga tribes who inhabited the island prior to the introduction of Buddhism. Later, with the spread of Buddhism, the same sacred ground was transformed into a temple complex.

The Sri Pathul Gala (stone bearing the footprints of the Buddha) belongs to the early Buddhist period when the Buddha was venerated symbolically, before the creation of Buddha statues. Today, the Cobra Stone is enshrined within the Bo Maluwa (sacred Bodhi tree enclosure), while the Sri Pathul Gala is discreetly concealed beneath a Buddha statue to safeguard it from treasure hunters.

Ascent and Modern Monuments

At the foot of the rock, facing the main road, stands a striking dragon-arch entrance made of concrete. From this point, a gentle incline leads up the rock toward the main stupa and the young Bo tree. Midway along the ascent, a serene statue of the Buddha and another of King Devanampiyathissa (307-267 BCE) greet visitors.

To one side stands a bust of the man credited with reviving the temple and constructing the present structures atop the rock during the early 1900s. According to the temple’s chief priest, this individual was a Catholic who found spiritual peace on this sacred summit. A faded rock inscription below the bust once detailed the names and dates associated with the temple’s reconstruction, though time has nearly erased its words.

Panoramic Views and the Main Complex

Beyond its religious significance, Isinbassagala offers a truly breathtaking panorama. From the summit, one can enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape, a sweeping vista of plains, forests, and distant villages. Behind the stupa, a path descends to the main temple complex at the base of the rock. Alternatively, visitors can take the gravel road that branches off just before the rock and drive directly to the temple premises, from where another path leads upward.

The Cave Shrine and the Ancient Na Tree

On this side of the rock lies an ancient cave shrine known as Arhath Guhawa, which shelters an old statue within. According to the chief priest, this cave had been abandoned for many years until a retired eye surgeon—now living a life devoted to meditation—made it his dwelling. Nearby stands a massive Na tree entwined with thick creepers, covering an area of nearly 1,000 square meters [10,764 square feet]. The tree is so ancient that its original trunk has long since vanished, leaving only a vast, living canopy rooted in centuries of silent growth.

Other names : Isinbassagala, issinbassagala, isinbessagala, issinbessagala, isinbassa gala, isin bassa gala

medawachchiya Isinbassagala Ruwangiri Rajamaha Viharaya

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Traveling Directions to Isinbassagala Ruwangiri Rajamaha Viharaya

From Anuradhapura, take the A9 highway (Kandy–Jaffna Road) towards the north. The town of Medawachchiya lies about 27 kilometers (16.7 miles) from Anuradhapura and serves as the main junction for vehicles heading toward Mannar. Continue a further 1.4 kilometers (0.9 miles) along the A9 to reach Isinbassagala Temple. The stupa perched atop the rock is visible from a considerable distance, though the temple complex itself remains hidden from view along the main road.

Route from Colombo to Isinbassagala Ruwangiri Rajamaha Viharaya	Route from Anuradhapura Town to Isinbassagala Ruwangiri Rajamaha Viharaya
Though : Puttlam – Anuradhapura – Madawachchiya Distance :245 km Travel time : 3.15 – 4 hours Driving directions : see on google map	Distance : 36 km Travel time : 45 mins – 1 hour Driving directions : see on google map