Nikasala Aranya Senasanaya, Buddhist temple in Kurunegala District, Sri Lanka.
Nikasala Aranya Senasanaya is a Buddhist temple set within forested hills at Dematawakanda in Kanduboda-Moragane Village. The grounds contain ancient caves, carved stone pillars, guardian stones, and a large stupa standing among the vegetation.
The temple site contains archaeological remains dating back around 2000 years, making it one of the oldest religious centers in the region. The government recognized its historical importance and placed it under official protection in 2007.
The temple serves as a gathering place where Buddhist practitioners come together for meditation and religious ceremonies throughout the year. The community uses this space as a center for spiritual development and observance.
Visitors should expect a narrow, winding road that leads through the countryside to reach the temple grounds. The drier months make for easier access and more comfortable walking conditions around the site.
Excavations beneath the stupa uncovered multiple artifacts that show how this site remained religiously important across many centuries. These discoveries reveal details about how Buddhist communities worshipped and lived at this location over extended periods.
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