Kurundi Vihara (Kurundawaka Archaeological Reserve)
Verification: in review · Coordinates: unverified
What is this site?
Extensive ancient forest monastery featuring an ashlar-faced stone , Padanaghara double platforms, stone moonstones, and early Brahmi inscriptions.
Why it matters
One of the largest ashlar stone-faced monuments outside Anuradhapura, demonstrating early architectural sophistication in the northern forests.
Description
Built during the reign of King Khallatanaga; expanded by King Aggabodhi IV, who added an . Known in historical chronicles as Kurundavelu . Associated patrons (as supplied): King Khallatanaga, King Aggabodhi IV. Key features to look for: Ashlar dressed-granite base structure; Carved and balustrade fragments unearthed on site; Early Brahmi rock edict panels; Dense forest canopy enclosing the monastic ruins.
Photos
No rights-cleared photographs yet.
Historical and scholarly sources
- Reference as supplied in project dataset (pending verification): Gazette No. 1957 (Archaeological Reserve)
Visiting responsibly
Dress modestly at religious sites, remove shoes and hats where requested, never climb on monuments or pose with your back to Buddha images, and follow guidance from custodians and the Department of Archaeology.