Dimbulagala Raja Maha Vihara, Ancient Buddhist temple in eastern Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
Dimbulagala Raja Maha Vihara is an ancient Buddhist temple complex spread across a mountain range with multiple caves carved into the rock face bearing old inscriptions. The site includes the separate Namal Pokuna complex nearby, containing the remains of religious structures and stone guardians.
Founded in ancient times, the temple gained prominence during the 12th century when King Parakramabahu I. brought hundreds of monks there to revive Buddhist monastic life. This expansion transformed it into a major center of religious learning and practice.
The temple holds deep meaning for local Buddhists as a place of pilgrimage and meditation, with its rock-cut caves serving as sacred spaces for spiritual practice. Visitors come to experience the quiet reverence that still surrounds these ancient religious sites.
The site is best visited during drier periods when the footpaths to the caves are easier to navigate. Exploring the various caves and the Namal Pokuna complex requires good mobility and comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain.
The Pulligoda cave preserves original painted murals showing ancient artistic techniques that have survived centuries of weathering. These artworks offer visitors a rare look at the creative skill of the painters who worked there long ago.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
