Minneriya Wewe Devalaya (මින්නේරිය වැවේ දේවාලය)

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Minneriya Wewe Devalaya where King Mahsen is deified as Minneriye Deviyo

Turning off from the Minneriya-Giritale road onto the ancient embankment road of the Minneriya Wewa Reservoir and traveling 2 km along it, you will come across a small, charming devalaya on the reservoir’s edge, known as the Minneriya Wewe Devalaya.

Nestled in a serene setting surrounded by a cluster of trees, this devalaya is dedicated to Minneriya’s guardian deity, “Minneri Deviyo,” also known as “Minneri Hath Rajjuru Bandara Deviyo.” It is believed to be as old as the Minneriya Wewa Reservoir itself. This deity is considered the reincarnation of King Mahasen (276–303 CE), the ruler credited with constructing 16 reservoirs, including the nearby Kaudulla Wewa Reservoir. Following his death, the people of Minneriya deified him as Minneri Deviyo due to the power he had over them, and they began worshipping and making offerings in his honor.

According to Udugama (1983, pp. 74–77), remnants of shattered and weathered stone statues were once found along the embankment, though none remain today, possibly due to destruction by treasure hunters. However, within the Wewe Devalaya, a tall slab inscription still stands, though its text has become illegible over time.

The main shrine building at the Minneriya Wewe Devalaya is typically closed, resulting in few visitors. However, even without visiting the devalaya itself, the location offers room for parking and a panoramic view of the Minneriya Wewa Reservoir. From this vantage point atop the embankment, one can also enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the golden paddy fields and the rural village situated 20 meters below all while feeling the brisk, cool breeze blowing off the reservoir.

a long slab inscription at the Minneriya Wewe Devalaya where King Mahsen is deified as Minneriye Deviyo

A recent statue of King Mahasen at Minneriya Wewe Devalaya

The ancient Bo Tree at Minneriya Wewe Devalaya

References

Udugama, S. (1983). Sri Lanka from Legend and History. Niloo Bhatt.

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Map of Minneriya Wewe Devalaya

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Travel Directions to Minneriya Wewe Devalaya

Route from Habarana to Minneriya Wewe Devalaya

Through : Habanarana – Minneriya Road
Distance : 28 km
Travel time : 35 mins
Driving directions : see on google map

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References

Also See

Map of Minneriya Wewe Devalaya

Travel Directions to Minneriya Wewe Devalaya

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