Paragoda Rajamaha Viharaya (පරගොඩ රජ මහා විහාරය)

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The ancient Detispala Bodhi tree at Paragoda Raja Maha Viharaya — The ancient Detispala Bodhi tree at Paragoda Rajamaha Viharaya

Paragoda Rajamaha Viharaya is located just 1.2 kilometers from the Imaduwa Interchange on the Southern Expressway, along the Galle–Deniyaya road. The origins of this temple date back to the reign of King Devanampiyatissa (307-267 BCE), during which one of the 32 saplings (Dethis Pala Bodhi) from the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura was planted here.

This historic event is mentioned in the Sinhala Maha Bodhiwansa, and later sources such as the Nampota also refer to the vihara, confirming its antiquity. The existing Bo tree, believed to be the original sapling planted in the 3rd century BCE, still stands within the temple premises. It grows on a raised platform accessed by four stone steps. Interestingly, the moonstone (sandakadapahana), which traditionally lies at the base of the steps, has been embedded at the top—a modification likely made at a later period. Its design features carved swans at the base and a lotus motif in the semi-circular zone, an uncommon pattern in ancient Sri Lankan art.

The vihara retains all the key elements of a traditional Buddhist monastery: a dagoba, Bo tree, shrine room, preaching hall, and monastic dwellings. According to tradition, the original stupa, known as the Kancuka Dagoba, was expanded in later periods.

A pirivena (monastic educational institute) named Walpola Sri Rahula Pirivena functions at the temple, honoring the revered scholar monk Rev. Walpola Sri Rahula, who hailed from the nearby village of Walpola. The temple’s library preserves around 150 ola leaf manuscripts on Buddhism and Ayurvedic medicine. Additionally, a modern library housed in an octagonal building contains a collection of over 1,000 books. This vihara is well supported by 18 villages around it and is located on a site 10 acres in extent.

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Dethis Pala Bodhi

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Route from Imaduwa Exit to Paragoda Rajamaha Viharaya

Distance : 1.2 km
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Map of Paragoda Rajamaha Viharaya

Travel Directions to Paragoda Rajamaha Viharaya

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