Ochchappu Kallu Buddhist Ruins in Wilpattu – විල්පත්තුවේ ඔච්චප්පු කල්ලු නටඹුන්
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Photo courtesy of Kithsiri Gunawardena
Ochchappu Kallu is a ancient buddhist shrine lying inside Wilpattu National Park now in Ruins. The ruins consists of ancient drip ledge caves, remains of a stupas which have been ruthlessly destroyed by treasure hunters, rock cut bases of buildings, moonstones, balustrades ( korawakgal) and scatted pieces of rocks pillars over a vast area which had held the buildings of this complex. Ochchappu Kallu is considered the largest monastery complex out of approx 68 archaeological sites within the boundaries Wilpattu National Park.
Just before the main ruins area is a large drip ledge cave with a inscription written in early brahmi style describing the donation of this cave to buddhist priesthood.
In several places you will see huge rock slabs skilfully placed leaning across other boulders to create meditation chambers.
At the the top of the rock are remains of a large stupa and buildings. Another stupa further down can be seen which has been destroyed by treasure hunters. Close to this stupa is another rock inscription which has not being read.
Since it is prohibited to get off the vehicles within the National Park, you will need special permission to explore this site.
Also See
Map of Ochchappu Kallu Buddhist Ruins in Wilpattu
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 Ochchappu Kallu Buddhist Ruins in Wilpattu (upto Wilpattu National Park Entrance)
Route from Colombo to Ochchappu Kallu Buddhist Ruins (upto Wilpattu National Park Entrance) |
| Though : Negombo – Puttlam Distance :200 km Travel time : 4 hours. Driving directions : see on google map |
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