Sri Lanka is a land of rich cultural heritage and is home to numerous ancient temples that hold great historical significance. While some are well-known and frequently visited, others remain hidden treasures that are often overlooked. This article explores five forgotten temples in order to reveal their unique histories and importance.
Dakkinagiriya Vihara: Hidden Monastic Retreat
Location: Near Kurunegala
Dakkinagiriya Vihara, considered the “Other Kaludiya Pokuna,” would have origins dating to the Anuradhapura period. Being tucked into isolation, the site features ruins of stone structures, including stupas, monastic residences, and meditation caves. The architecture and the religious rituals are genuinely reflective of ancient Sri Lanka.
- Historic Significance: Anuradhapura era
- Architecture: Stone ruins, stupas, meditation caves
- Environment: Peaceful, tranquil surroundings
Isurumuniya Temple: An Artistic Heritage
Location: Anuradhapura
A place of scenic beauty and historical value, Isurumuniya Temple is an art gallery of its own. It is a beautiful creation of ancient kings in Sri Lanka with magnificent carvings embedded with incredible carvings all over the building utilizing ancient Sri Lankan architectural designs mixing both pre-Buddhist and Buddhist culture. One of the most famous sights here is the “Isurumuni Lovers” sculpture, along with other historic artifacts.
- Cultural Importance: Mix of both Buddhistic and pre-Buddhistic forms
- Aesthetic Characteristics: Carving detailed sculpture of Isurumuni Lovers
- Artefacts in History: Several kinds of ancient objects exhibited
Buduruwagala: The Rock of Buddha
Location: Near Wellawaya
The name Buduruwagala, which means “the rock with the Buddha” stands for seven such ancient figures based on Buddhism, carved on the face of a rock. Out of those seven, the central statue of Buddha is 51 feet tall, and it is recognized as the tallest of its kind in Sri Lanka. This site, dating back to the 9th or 10th century, demonstrates Mahayana Buddhist influence.
- Period: 9th or 10th century
- Key Statues: The most giant Buddha statue in Sri Lanka
- Buddhist Tradition: Mahayana
Kandarodai Temple: A Collection of minuscule Stupas
Location: Jaffna
Kandarodai Temple or Kadurugoda Viharaya is unique because of the many tiny stupas made of grey coral stone. These stupas, believed to have had relics of the enlightened monks, belong to the era of King Devanampiya Tissa (307-267 BC). The temple is an important archaeological site in Sri Lanka. Of historical value belonging to the period of King Devanampiya Tissa, smaller stupas made of grey coral stone were unique in the past. Essential as an archaeological value was a monastic complex.
Abhayagiri Vihara: A Landmark for Buddhist Education
Location: Anuradhapura
Abhayagiri Vihara used to be one of the most significant monastic enclaves in ancient Sri Lanka and had been a premier site for Buddhist education. Vast ruins with high brick structures and elaborately carved pillars reflect the grandeur of yesteryears.
- Historic Role: Major Center of Buddhist Learning
- Architectural Element: Brick Structures Carved Pillars
- Complex Size: One of the largest monastic complexes
