This ancient temple situated in the deep south in the interior from Tangalle is thought to have been constructed by King Saddhatissa in the 3rd Century BC and renovated and added onto by subsequent kings. It is also thought that it was built by King Kavantissa, who was King Dutugemunu and King Saddatissa;s father. It is thought he had a Buddha stature erected in one of the caves and caused a lamp with mustard oil to be lit. Situated on a rock similar to Sigiriya was at time confused by Europeans as Siri Pada. Built on a 205 M high natural rock , it consists of 3 levels, the lower temple, the bomaluwa at the second level and the upper viharaya. The Bo tree is reputed to be a sapling from the Sri Maha Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura. This site sports ancient rock steps which are both vertical and horizontal. The cave inscriptions date back to 1st and 2nd Century early brahmin.
The Caves are adorned with paintings in the Kandyan tradition and reminiscent of the Dambulla rock temple .
The climb to the top is not very challenging. The first flight of steps takes one to the Bo maluwa and chaitya. Another flight of steps takes one to the 4 caves. Another tricky set of stairs take one to the top with the chaitya. A new look out platform has been constructed which gives a wide view of the surrounding area.
The roads to the side is well carpeted with ample parking at the site and the usual vendors ready to sell refreshing herbal drinks
Urban Gypsy Sri Lanka 