Devanagala Rajamaha Vihara

This ancient historic Vihara is situated 5 km along the Mawanella Hemmatagama road in the Aranayake division, Kegalle district.

The history of the Vihara dates back to the period of King Parakramabahu I of Polonnaruwa. According to an inscription found there, General Kitnagaragiri, who invaded Burma, was given a land grant in Devanagala by the King. The original shrine room belonged to the Polonnaruwa period.

The tempita vihara at the premises had been constructed by King Wimaladharmasooriya I of Kandy. The temple premises are located on a rock surface 72 acres in extent and in an appealing environment. Improvements to the Vihara had been effected by King Wimaladharmasooriya I in recognition of the assistance given to him by a monk named Ratnalankara. The shrine accommodating the footprint of the Buddha and an inscription are some of the important remains at the temple.

It is believed that the sword of King Wimaladharmasooriya I kept in this temple was discovered later and removed to the National Museum. Devanagala temple is also known as the place where the Tooth Relic was kept secretly for a period of three months.

(Heritage of Sabaragamuwa by Dr. H.A.P. Abeyawardana)

Unique Sri Lanka

Devanagala Tampita Viharaya

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