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Weragama Purana Tampita Rajamaha Viharaya (Diya Bubule Pansala)

Hidden within the serene village of Gonamariyawa lies the ancient Weragama Tampita Viharaya and the sacred Gonamariyawa Ulpatha—a spring once vital for royal irrigation and now a lifeline for villagers. Step into this timeless sanctuary where legend, devotion, and nature still flow together.

The Weragama Purana Tampita Viharaya—also known as Diya Bubule Pansala and Gonamariyawa Rajamaha Viharaya—is located between Medawachchiya and Kebithigollawa in the Anuradhapura District. According to legend, this temple was established during the time of Mihindu Maha Rahath Thero.

In ancient times, the temple was known as Medagama Weragama Viharaya and underwent renovations under the patronage of four kings at different periods. The most recent restoration was carried out during the reign of King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe (1747–1781 CE), who officially granted the temple to Buddhist monks through a copper plate inscription that is still preserved within the temple premises.

The Tampita Viharaya constructed during King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe’s reign remains the most prominent feature of the site. Within this elevated shrine, there are two statues of kings believed to commemorate royal patrons of the temple. The inner chamber of the Tampita Viharaya houses a collection of Buddha statues and wood-carved deity figures, showcasing the refined craftsmanship and devotional artistry characteristic of the Kandyan period.

Gonamariyawa Ulpatha Freshwater Spring
Photo by : Milinda Huruggamuwa

Gonamariyawa Ulpatha / Gonamariyawa Spring (ගෝනමැරියාව උල්පත)

According to folklore, the ancient Rajarata region was once blessed with 672 natural springs, many of which were harnessed by kings to construct vast irrigation reservoirs. Among these sources, the Kunchuttu Mountain range in the Kebithigollawa area is said to be the origin of numerous freshwater springs that nourished the surrounding landscape.

Springs of the Kebithigollawa Region

In addition to the cluster of springs in Kunchuttu, several other springs—Sinhaya Ulpatha, Gonamariyawa Ulpatha, Weramediyawa Ulpatha, Kalawedi Ulpotha, Garilla Ulpotha, Dunucare Ulpatha, Kurulu Ulpatha, Welimuwa Pothana Ulpatha, Nuwarahinna Ulpatha, and Halmillawetiya—are found across the Kebithigollawa region. These springs are fed by underground water channels that originate from the Kunchuttu range, sustaining both agriculture and human settlements for centuries.

Gonamariyawa Ulpatha and the Temple Connection

Among these, Gonamariyawa Ulpatha lies within the premises of the Gonamariyawa Rajamaha Viharaya (also known as Weragama Purana Tampita Viharaya). In the past, the spring provided irrigation water to nearby paddy fields. However, growing human activity and environmental pressures have placed the spring at risk of drying up. Recently, it was renovated, and a small well was constructed to serve the local community. Owing to widespread kidney-related diseases linked to other contaminated water sources, villagers now rely heavily on this spring for their daily needs.

Access to the Site

To reach the temple, travel along the Medawachchiya–Kebithigollawa road for approximately 25 kilometers until you arrive at the village of Gonamariyawa. The temple is located to the left of the road, just beyond the access route leading to the Gonamariyawa Reservoir.

Alternate Names

The temple is known by several names, including Veragama Purana Rajamaha Viharaya, Weragama Viharaya, Weragama Tampita Viharaya, Diya Bubule Pansala, Diya Bubula Pansala, Diyabubule Pansala, Diyabubula Pansala, Gonamariyawa Viharaya, and Gonamariyawa Pansala.

Wooden Buddha Statues in the Weragama Purana Tampita Rajamaha Viharaya (Diya Bubule Pansala)

Wooden Devatha Statues in the Weragama Purana Tampita Rajamaha Viharaya (Diya Bubule Pansala)

Walls of the Tampita Viharaya at Weragama Rajamaha Viharaya (Diya Bubule Pansala)

Wooden floor of the Tampita Viharaya at Weragama Rajamaha Viharaya (Diya Bubule Pansala)

Tampita Viharaya at Weragama Rajamaha Viharaya (Diya Bubule Pansala)

Ruins of an ancient rock carved Buddha Statue at Weragama Rajamaha Viharaya (Diya Bubule Pansala)

Ruins of an ancient rock carved statue of a king at Weragama Rajamaha Viharaya (Diya Bubule Pansala)

Photos by Chamara Perera

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