Ridi Viharaya, Buddhist temple in Ridigama, Sri Lanka
Ridi Viharaya is a temple complex in Ridigama featuring twenty-five caves, with one serving as the main temple inside a silver-lined structure. The site spreads across multiple levels containing various religious buildings and architectural elements.
The temple originates from the 2nd century BCE under King Dutugemunu, when silver ore was discovered at this location for building the Ruwanwelisaya stupa. This early connection to one of ancient Sri Lanka's most important religious construction projects shaped its significance.
The temple displays wall paintings from the Kandyan period alongside representations of Hindu deities, showing how different traditions coexisted in this space. These artistic elements reflect a time when multiple religious influences shaped the island.
The temple is reachable from Kurunegala via Dambulla Road, turning right after Ibbagamuwa and continuing through Ridigama to the entrance. The site spans multiple levels, so visitors should expect stairs and varying elevations throughout the complex.
The temple's collection includes historical artifacts such as an ancient rice bowl and a Pallakkiya, a carrier once used to transport elderly monks. These personal objects offer insight into how the community cared for aging members of the monastic order.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
