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Near the lesser-known Buduruwayaya archaeological site in the Polonnaruwa district lies another fascinating archaeological location. Situated approximately 7 kilometres from Bakamuna and 1.5 kilometres from Buduruwayaya, this site is the recently excavated Kumara Ella, located along the Dambulla-Kalagahawela new expressway.
The ruins at this site are spread along the banks of the Amban Ganga, creating what must have been a picturesque and serene setting in its time. Among the remnants are a Jantagara or bathhouse for Buddhist monks and a Bodhigara, a shrine centered around a Bodhi tree. Excavations and conservation efforts commenced in 2004 when the area was cleared for the construction of the new highway. Today, visitors can observe the well-maintained ruins of two buildings, complete with pathways and parapet walls.
After some debate, these structures were identified as Bodhigara and Jantagara (bathhouse). Scholars have varying interpretations of Jantagara structures, with some associating them with hot water baths mentioned in Buddhist canonical and commentarial texts, while others describe them as a type of sauna.
The Jantagara holds a unique place in Buddhist architectural traditions. At its core is a gal-kotuwa or stone bath, believed to have been used for preparing steam baths for Buddhist monks. Surrounding this central feature, evidence suggests that the remaining sections of the building were utilized for heating water for the baths and for preparing medicinal treatments using local herbs. This site is an excellent example of the integration of wellness and spiritual practice highlighting the holistic approach to monastic life in ancient Buddhist culture.
Across the road, hidden within the jungle, lies ruins of a larger monastic complex which possibly these ruins belong to documented by a team of Japanese archaeology researchers. This site includes a stone wash basin, remnants of ancient buildings, and the remains of a stupa. However, accessing these ruins is not considered safe due to the presence of elephants and other wildlife in the area.
See
- Maluweyaya Archaeological Ruins in Elahara
- Monaragala Archaeological Ruins in Elahara
- Keththaramaya Archaeological Ruins in Elahara
Also See
Map of Kumara Ella Archaeological Reserve
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
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Travel Directions to Kumara Ella Archaeological Reserve
| Route from Dambulla to Kumara Ella Archaeological Reserve | Route from Polonnaruwa to Kumara Ella Archaeological Reserve |
| Through : Bakamuna (B615) Distance :33 km Travel time : 45 minutes Driving directions : see on Google map | Through : Giritale – Bakamuna (B112) Distance :50 km Travel time : 1 hour Driving directions : see on Google map |
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