Pawurukanda Rajamaha Viharaya

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Pawurukanda Rajamaha Viharaya, known as “Punchi Sripada,” is a historic Polonnaruwa-era hilltop sanctuary in Kalutara. Ascending its scenic, shaded steps reveals an 1838-engraved Buddha footprint, unique stone-based stupas, and ancient cave dwellings. This tranquil archaeological site preserves rare medicinal flora alongside murals reflecting three distinct artistic Sri Lankan eras.

The history of Pawurukanda Rajamaha Viharaya is traced back to the Polonnaruwa period. According to the Culavamsa, after being defeated in battle with Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 CE), his paternal uncles Wickramabahu, Kirthisrimegha and Sri Wallabha fled to Pasyodunrata. Tradition holds that they sought refuge at Pawurukanda, which served as a natural fortress due to its summit being encircled by a stone wall.

This defensive feature is believed to have inspired the name Pawurukanda (“rock with a wall”), with the vihara situated atop this fortified hill.

The Sacred Footprint and Ascent

At the summit lies a carved footprint of the Buddha, giving the site its name Punchi Sripada (“Little Sri Pada”). Two routes lead to the top, one of which offers a more scenic climb through shaded, natural surroundings.

A flight of stone steps guides the ascent. The climb is relatively gentle and not overly strenuous, as the path is sheltered by trees. The environment remains calm and serene, disturbed only by the occasional sound of birds, adding to the meditative atmosphere.

The climb typically takes about 40 minutes. The summit opens into a relatively flat area containing several key structures, including a stupa, a shrine room, the carved sacred footprint, and a Bo tree.

Shrine Room and Murals

The ancient shrine room, adorned with murals, adds significant aesthetic and historical value to the site, which is recognized as an archaeological location. According to Viharadhipathi Mavita Somaloka Thera, the murals represent three distinct historical periods.

However, parts of the Buddha statue within the shrine have suffered damage due to vandalism and treasure hunting. An ancient statue of the deity Vishnu found within the shrine has also been damaged, although it has undergone recent restoration.

Architectural Features

The carved footprint of the Buddha, located on a separate rock in front of the shrine room, dates to 1838. The stupa at the summit is notable for being constructed atop a stone base, giving it a distinctive structural form.

Cave and Legends

At some distance from the main vihara lies a large cave capable of accommodating around 400 pilgrims. It is believed that Manabharana once resided in this cave.

Local tradition also suggests that the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha had been hidden here at some point. Additionally, references are made to a stone canoe discovered among the archaeological remains, although its exact location is no longer known.

Natural Environment and Conservation Concerns

The hill and its surroundings are rich in biodiversity, supporting a variety of rare medicinal plants, as well as diverse animal and bird species. Despite this ecological significance, concerns have been raised by the Viharadhipathi regarding illegal activities. Unscrupulous individuals have reportedly been cutting down valuable trees, contributing to the gradual degradation of the site’s natural beauty and ecological balance.

References

Geiger, W., & Rickmers, C. M. (1929). Culavamsa: Being The More Recent Part Of The Mahavamsa: Vol. Part I–II. Pali Text Society.

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Travel Directions to Pawurukanda Rajamaha Viharaya

Route from Colombo to Pawurukanda Rajamaha Viharaya	Route from Matugama to Pawurukanda Rajamaha Viharaya
Through : Panadura – Aluthgama – Dharga Town Distance : 80 km Travel time : 2 hours. Driving directions : see on google map	Through : Horawala Distance : 15 km Travel time : 20 minutes. Driving directions : see on google map