A Journey through Time and Spirituality
Gampaha is a district in Sri Lanka that is filled with gems, and one of the most beautiful and historically significant ones is the Pilikuttuwa Raja Maha Vihara. This temple is located about 3 km from the Yakkala, Kirindiwela main road and is a perfect place for those who love history and the environment. Visitors to this ancient and lovely temple can climb to the top through the jungle where they can see a beautiful view, making it a great excursion to take before midday.
The area surrounding the temple has more than 102 dens, a rock mountain to climb, and a vast forest. Visitors will find that there are many things to see and do here, including exploring the various arts and statues that were built in different eras throughout Sri Lankan history. Those who want to learn even more about the temple can buy a book about it for just 200 LKR.
Visitors are only allowed to go to the top of the mountain or rock on Full moon poya days in Sri Lanka, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Climbing the mountain is a bit challenging, but visitors can choose between two paths. The path through the cave inscriptions is less steep and less slippery, even during the rainy season. But it’s longer than the other path. On the other side of the rock there is an another location to visit in another side of the rock.
On top of the rock, visitors will be treated to a breathtaking view of the area, including the Colombo buildings and Nelum Kuluna. While climbing to the top, it’s best to do so before dark as it may be difficult to find the way back down. The view is especially beautiful during the day with the pineapple and banana plantations in sight.
The temple itself is situated in a thick forest patch and has many caves to explore. Visitors will find that the wooden bridge by the lake has a beautiful scenery as well. Inside the temple, there are paintings of Portuguese soldiers, which is something that visitors don’t see often. The temple is a fantastic place to meditate as the environment is friendly and silent.
The Pilikuththuwa Raja Maha Vihara is one of the many temples built by King Walagamba during the Anuradhapura period, making it a historically significant location. The view from the top of the temple sees the Maligathenna temple from the east and the Colombo city from the west.
Unfortunately, the roofs and beautiful paintings in the main temple complex are not looked after by the archaeological department, which means that the temple may not be in its original state in another 20 years. It’s important to cherish this beautiful gem and do what we can to preserve it for future generations.
When visiting the temple, there are a few rules that visitors should follow. There is a dress code, and visitors should wear clean white clothes without any revealing appearance. It’s also essential to be respectful and silent while on the temple grounds. Visitors should not write on the old rock formations, draw on legendary trees, or drop any plastic waste.
The Pilikuththuwa Raja Maha Vihara is a beautiful gem of Gampaha that offers visitors a chance to explore history and the environment. From the various caves to the stunning view from the top, there is so much to see and do here. It’s important to be respectful of the temple and its rules and do our part to preserve it for future generations.
Location on google map
History
Pilikuttuwa Raja Maha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The temple is believed to have been built during the reign of King Walagamba in the 1st century BCE.
King Walagamba, also known as Vattagamini Abhaya, was a powerful monarch who ruled the Anuradhapura Kingdom. During his reign, the kingdom faced several invasions from South India, and the king was forced to flee his capital city of Anuradhapura and hide in the forests for 14 years.
It is said that during his exile, King Walagamba took refuge in the area where Pilikuttuwa Raja Maha Viharaya is located today. The king is believed to have ordered the construction of the temple as a token of his gratitude to the gods for helping him during his difficult times.
The temple is also said to have been a center of Buddhist learning during the Anuradhapura period. The temple’s architecture reflects the ancient Sinhalese style of temple construction, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning the temple walls.
Today, Pilikuttuwa Raja Maha Viharaya remains an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists in Sri Lanka. The temple is home to several ancient relics, including a stupa and several Buddha statues, and attracts many visitors throughout the year.
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