Pilikuththuwa Raja Maha Viharaya
Verification: in review · Coordinates: unverified
What is this site?
A 99-cave forest hermitage complex featuring ancient drip-ledges, an archaic wooden bridge (Dandu Palamge), and a preserved Kandyan-era Tampita .
Why it matters
One of the most extensive rock-shelter monasteries in the Western Province, showing continuous ascetic habitation for over two millennia.
Description
Drip-ledge inscriptions date the site to the 2nd century BCE; served as an ascetic forest retreat and was later refurbished with Kandyan paintings. Associated patrons (as supplied): King Valagamba, Kandyan Era Upasakas. Key features to look for: Archaic wooden footbridge with carved railings; Tampita shrine elevated on stone stumps; Drip-ledge caves with early Brahmi cave inscriptions; Kandyan period floral painted ceiling beneath rock canopies.
Photos
No rights-cleared photographs yet.
Historical and scholarly sources
- Reference as supplied in project dataset (pending verification): Gazette No. 1264 (2002-11-22)
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.