Madukanda Sri Dalada Viharaya
Verification: in review · Coordinates: unverified
What is this site?
Historic roadside monastery identified as one of the rest stations where the Sacred Tooth Relic was sheltered after its arrival from India in the 4th century CE.
Why it matters
A key station along the historic pilgrimage path of the Tooth Relic journey from the port of Lankapatuna to the royal palace at Anuradhapura.
Description
Traditional chronicles and inscriptions record the enshrinement of relics here by King Kithsiri Mewan; features ancient stone pillars and a mound. Associated patrons (as supplied): King Kithsiri Mewan, Prince Danta & Princess Hemamala. Key features to look for: Ancient stone pillar clusters of the historic relic resting shrine; Excavated and flight of steps with stone balustrades; Restored whitewashed stupa surrounded by palmyra trees; Bedrock water basins and ancient monastic footprint traces.
Photos
No rights-cleared photographs yet.
Historical and scholarly sources
- Reference as supplied in project dataset (pending verification): Antiquities Schedule 01; Vavuniya Cadastre
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.