There is much debate and confusion about the origin of the Warakagoda Veheragoda Stupa. To get to this interesting archaeological site, travellers have to go to Udowita junction along the Warakagoda – Kalutara route. Around 1.4km away from Udowita junction, there is a left turn leading to Salgas Mawatha. The site is just 300 meters straight down the road.

What about the complicated history of the site?

Mahawansa chronicles reveal that Prince Manabharana, who fought King Jayabahu (1110-1111) built himself a fortress at the site. Some believe that the ruins at the temple site were once part of the fortress. Others believe that he hid in caves belonging to the Warakagoda Purana Gallen Rajamaha Viharaya, a temple located just a few kilometres away from the site.

However, relics retrieved from the site indicate that a temple complex stood beyond the palace/fortress. Archaeologists found remnants of an ancient stupa/chedi about 1km away from the palace site. The Stupa itself was once built on a square platform. Natural rock splints, known as 'Inigal' reinforced the edge of the square platform. The rock splints used to secure the platform are still abundant in the area. Hence, when they rebuilt the temple in 2013, they used 'inigal' from a nearby rubber estate.

The bricks used to build the stupa/chedi dates back to the Kotte era. Interestingly, archaeologists found a gold plated pendant with two birds carved on it at eth site. The pendant bore a close resemblance to jewellery popular in contemporary China.

Unique Sri Lanka

Warakagoda Veheragoda Stupa Archaeological Site

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