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Image courtesy of Dr. Ashan Geeganage
The ancient Vilgamvehera Rajamaha Viharaya temple is located in Baragama, within the Ambalantota District Secretariat Division in Sri Lanka. The Sumangala Vilasini Atthakatha mentions that King Kavantissa (205 BCE – 161 BCE) had constructed this as a monastery for Buddhist nuns in the 2nd century BC. It is said in the same chronicle that during the 12 years of famine known as “Beminitiyasaya” a nun who was the sister of the chief prelate of Tissamaharama had taken refuge in this nunnery1.
The ancient Dagoba (stupa) at Vilgamvehera has undergone complete renovation losing its historical significance. Evidence suggests that a parapet wall once encircled the temple and archaeological evidence indicates the existence of a canal running along the parapet surrounding the temple with water1. This stream would have added to the serene and contemplative atmosphere of the temple, as well as providing a practical water source for the monastic community.
The architectural features of Vilgamvehera are characteristic of a Pabbata Vihara1, a specific type of Buddhist monastic complex. Pabbata Viharas are typically situated on elevated ground and are known for their distinct layout, which includes a central stupa surrounded by subsidiary structures such as image houses, meditation halls, and residential quarters for monks or nuns.
The temple lies 15 km off the Sooriyawewa Interchange on the Southern Expressway. Exiting from Sooriyawewa, take the Madunagala Road and travel for 13 km to reach the Beragama town. Travelling a further 2 km through by roads on this road will bring you to this ancient temple complex on the left. There is also an entrance opposite Beragama Wewa Reservoir but this gate seems to be permanently closed.
References
- Vilgam RMV. (2012, October 29). Department of Archaeology, Sri Lanka. Retrieved June 26, 2024, from https://hindudept.gov.lk/web/index.php?view=article&id=142
Also See
Map of Vilgam Rajamaha Viharaya at Ambalantota
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 Vilgam Rajamaha Viharaya at Ambalantota
| Route from Nonagama Junction to Vilgam Rajamaha Viharaya at Ambalantota |
| Through : Beragama Road Distance : 9.5 km Travel time : 20 minutes Driving directions : see on google map |
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