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Image courtesy of Dr. Ashan Geeganage
Nuwarakanda Rajamaha Viharaya is an ancient temple situated near the town of Wariyapola.
According to legend, the temple was first built by the regional king Sooratissa, the brother of King Devanampiyatissa (307–267 BCE). King Devanampiyatissa had requested Sooratissa to host 32 Arhats from Anuradhapura, leading him to prepare 32 caves in this area for their residence. Many of these caves remain hidden within the surrounding jungle, though a few have been cleared and are currently in use by the temple.
It is also believed that King Valagamba sought refuge here while fleeing from a South Indian invasion around 104 BCE. He is said to have completed the temple originally started by King Sooratissa. An underground tunnel once connected the caves of this temple to the nearby Wewala Ancient Temple. However, the tunnel has since collapsed, and its entrance has been sealed off with a small stupa built in front of it.
Historical records suggest that there was once a Sanchi-style stupa at the site, believed to be the third oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, though no visible remains of it exist today. Very little of the original ancient temple has survived, but the Jathra Gala (the central relic stone) of the old stupa can still be seen. Additionally, a few ancient stone pillars, featuring sun and moon carvings and used as lamp stands, are scattered around the temple grounds.
A particularly rare artifact found at the temple is a set of Buddha statues made from “Dahaiya” (rice husk). These statues are extremely rare and were crafted using a mix of rice husk, clay, kurumba (young coconut) water, and Goraka (red mango) juice. Sadly, they have suffered damage over time due to treasure hunters.
Another significant structure is the “Nagul Geya,” an ancient building constructed on a rock cave. It is believed that during King Valagamba’s campaign to reclaim the throne, this structure served as a weapons storage facility for his forces.
Alternate Names : Nuwara Kanda Rajamaha Viharaya, Nuwara Kanda Temple, Nuwarakanda Temple
Also See
Map of Nuwarakanda Rajamaha Viharaya
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Travel Directions to Nuwarakanda Rajamaha Viharaya
Temple can be reached from Padeniya – Kurunegala Road or the Padeniya – Daladagama Road. Take the road to Neboda from the Wariyapola travel approximately 5 km and turn left from the Nuwara Kanda Junction. The temple lies approximately 1.5 km from the junction.
| Route from Colombo to Nuwarakanda Rajamaha Viharaya |
| Through : Airport Highway – Ja-Ela – Minuwangoda – Giriulla – Narammala – Wariyapola Distance:120 km Travel time : 3 hours. Driving directions : see on Google Maps |
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