Sankhapala Raja Maha Viharaya
Verification: in review · Coordinates: unverified
What is this site?
Ancient cave monastery linked to King Dutugamunu's chief general Phussadeva, who retired here and built a enshrining his royal conch shell.
Why it matters
One of the historic cave monasteries along the border connecting the Sabaragamuwa hills to the southern Ruhuna plains.
Description
Early Brahmi inscriptions confirm the dedication of rock shelters to the Buddhist order by Phussadeva; expanded with mural programs during the Kandyan era. Associated patrons (as supplied): Giant Phussadeva (Dutugamunu’s Army). Key features to look for: Prominent rocky mountain bluff sheltering the monastery; Early Brahmi drip-ledge inscriptions on the cave brow; Kandyan-period mural paintings depicting Buddhist jatakas; Ancient mound situated on the upper stone terrace.
Photos
No rights-cleared photographs yet.
Historical and scholarly sources
- Reference as supplied in project dataset (pending verification): Antiquities Schedule 01
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.