Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara, Buddhist temple complex on rock outcrop in Hambantota District, Sri Lanka
Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara is a temple complex with seven cave shrines carved into different levels of a natural rock formation rising approximately 205 meters high. Each level holds statues, sculptures, and painted walls that together create a layered religious space.
The temple complex was founded in the third century by King Saddhatissa during an important period for Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Later rulers expanded the site with additional structures and artistic contributions that enriched the complex over time.
The cave walls display paintings that tell Buddhist stories and religious scenes that have been important to worshippers here for generations. These artworks reflect how people have practiced their faith within this rocky sanctuary.
Reaching the different cave levels requires climbing numerous stone steps spread across the rock formation, a journey that takes approximately one hour to complete. Wearing comfortable shoes and allowing time to move at a relaxed pace helps you see each level without rushing.
Dutch colonial officials mistakenly called this site Adam's Berg in their 18th-century records, confusing it with the distant Adam's Peak mountain. This confusion appeared in historical documents for many years before the error was clarified.
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