Warana Raja Maha Vihara, Buddhist temple in Thihariya, Sri Lanka
Warana Raja Maha Vihara is a cave temple in Thihariya that consists of three stacked levels, each containing religious structures and artifacts. The site combines multiple sanctuaries and ancient architectural elements that form its complex layout.
According to archaeological records, this site was established during King Devanampiyathissa's reign in the 4th to 3rd century BCE. A donation by an early religious student connected the temple to the early days of Buddhism's introduction to the island.
The cave structure contains many Buddha statues, and visitors can see painted lotus flowers on the ceiling that show traditional Sri Lankan Buddhist art and religious practices.
The site sits about 5 kilometers from the main highway connecting Colombo and Kandy, making it accessible for travelers between these two cities. Allow time to explore the different levels and areas to see all the structures properly.
An old Brahmin inscription at the site reveals that the cave was given by Tissadatta, the first student of Mahinda Thero who brought Buddhism to the island. This connection makes the place a testament to the earliest days of religious transformation in Sri Lanka.
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