Potgul Rajamaha Vihara

This temple can be reached by travelling 3.2 km along the Ratnapura-Palawela road and a further distance of 3.2 km from the Kotamulla Junction, turning right at Karangoda Vidyalaya and travelling another 0.5 Km after having crossed the river. This is a new route provided to have access to the temple. Before reaching the junction close to Karangoda Vidyalaya, a small bridge should be crossed on foot. To get to the precincts of the Vihara, a total of 454 steps will have to be climbed. The shrine room is accommodated within a large cave.

A panoramic view of the Vihara is available from a distance. Tradition attributes the original Construction to King Walagambahu. lt had been renovated during the days of King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe of the Kandy period.

Two viharas are belonging to these two periods. There is an inscription engraved at the site. There is a reclining Buddha statue measuring 27 cubits (about 40 feet). The figures of deities Saman and Vishnu are found close to the head of the Buddha statue. The Buddha statue has been carved out of living rock. At the end of the compound with the Bo tree, there is a well popularly known as 'Darupokuna' (child pond). There is a belief that the water of the pond has medicinal properties. Below the rock, there are two meditation cells, and at the end of the Vihara, the compound is a cell used by guards.

A secret tunnel is visible. The ceiling of the cave is covered with beautiful frescos. The Vihara gets its name Potgul (a library or book store) from the tradition that Buddhist sacred books were written down and distributed. This Vihara attracts tourists and pilgrims throughout the year.

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

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Pothgul Rajamaha Viharaya

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