Ruins on the Kumbukandana Rock

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Archaeological Ruins on the Kumbukandana Rock

Kumbukandana (also spelled Kumbukkandana) is a remote agricultural village situated between the Wasgamuwa National Park and the Mahaweli Ganga River.

The archaeological ruins are located on the rocky hill identified as Kumbukandana Rock, in the Aliwanguwa Grama Niladhari Division of the Wilgamuwa Divisional Secretariat. This rock hill extends approximately 300 m from north to south and 200 m from east to west and rises to a height of about 60 m. The site comprises three distinct sections.

Southorn (1921) recorded a visit to these ruins in 1914, noting the presence of three stupas and associated temple structures. He also mentioned that one of the drip-ledged caves had been used to dry illegally hunted game and reported ruins of a Buddha image near the same cave.

The following observations are derived from Southorn (1921) and the archaeological explorations conducted by the Exploration Club of Hosei University, Japan, in 1973, 1975, and 1976.

The first section stretches from the central summit to the northwest of the rock hill. This area contains the remains of two dagobas—one looted by treasure hunters and the other under reconstruction (A, B), and two water holes (H, I). Six small holes carved into the rock (J, K) are also visible. A long flight of steps is cut into the northwest slope, and along these steps are numerous smaller holes (L). On the south slope, another carved flight of steps with similar holes (G) ascends to the base of dagoba A. These steps continue for about 30 m.

The second section occupies the eastern footslope of the hill. Here, there is a drip-ledged cave measuring 4.0 m in height, 3.7 m in width, and 3.4 m in depth (D). This section also features a ruined dagoba surrounded by bricks (C), a small water hole (F), and the remains of stone plates, a cobra-hood rock inscription, a round stone plate, and several cornerstones (photos D3–D5). The entrance of the cave is marked by remnants of a brick wall foundation, brick fragments, and another cornerstone. On the southern slope near cave D is a short flight of rock-cut steps (E).

The third section lies on the flat surface along the southern face of the rock hill. This includes a square structure with scattered brick debris (M). Southeast of this structure (M) are the remains of another structure with a stone terrace and a cornerstone (N). Further south, there is a grouping of upright stone pillars and additional brick debris (O). Southeast of structure M, the foundations of another building are visible (P), along with a moonstone and four cornerstones. On the eastern slope of this section, a 20 m-long flight of stone steps (Q) runs from east to west. Southwest of structure M lies a square throne stone (R).

To the west of structure M is a rock inscription carved into weathered stone, measuring approximately 2.74 m × 0.76 m (9 feet × 2 feet 6 inches) (S). Further west of this inscription is a structure with scattered cornerstones (T).

Note: The Google Maps marker provides only an approximate location. Visitors are advised to consult a local villager for guidance.

Map of Archaeological Ruins on the Kumbukandana Rock

References

The Exploration Club of Hosei University. (1978). The Ruins of Ancient Sinhalese Civilization -in the Jungle in Mahaweli Ganga Basin- Srilanka – Part II. Kinki Nippon Tourism and Culture Research Institute.
Southorn, W. T. (1921). Ancient Ruins at Kubukkandana. The Ceylon Antiquary and Literary Register, VII (part I), 43.

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Map of Archaeological Ruins on the Kumbukandana Rock

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