Degalldoruwa Raja Maha Viharaya

About

Nestled in the serene village of Amunugama, just a stone's throw away from Kandy, the Degaldoruwa Raja Maha Viharaya beckons travelers with its fascinating blend of history, art, and spirituality. Perched amidst nature's grandeur, the cave housing the shrine room and entrance chamber is an architectural marvel carved out of a rock that soars to nearly 40 feet. To delve into the temple's history, one can turn to the Degaldoruwa Tamba Sannasa, an ancient copper plate document revealing the temple's origins. What sets the Degaldoruwa Viharaya apart are its Kandyan Era frescoes, which offer a vivid glimpse into the customs and social life of its era. The meticulous paintings depict the attire of people from lowland and upcountry regions, creating a colorful tapestry of a bygone age. Whether it's the ornate garments of attendants, regal insignias, or resplendent elephants, the paintings are a window into an extraordinary past. Photo by A.Savin, FAL, via Wikimedia Commons