Buddhangala Rajamaha Viharaya
This is a very sacred and ancient temple of Buddhists. Also a very famous tourist destination too. It is a temple filled with nature’s wonders. Buddhangala is said to be 1800 years old. Rising above the forest of North Ampara, this 150 m high hill offers panoramic views from its rocky summit. Nestled within the thick forests of Ampara district is instead a new temple complex of Buddhangala Monastery, built on an outcrop of five larger rocks, covering at least 1280 acres surrounding 5 rocks where the remains of the ancient monastery can be seen. It is among the least known historical sites in Srilanka.
This hermitage came to prominence due to the relics unearthed during the excavation of the original stupa. There was a 4 inches gold casket with 3 golden lotus flowers standing on its stem with carefully placed antiques on each of them. The center flower was the tallest and two ‘bo’ leaves on the other two branches had the names “Sariputha” and “Maha Moggalana” inscribed on them. The relic shows the characteristics of 5th century work but the inscriptions on the golden ‘bo’ leaves are said to be belong to Pre-Christian Era. The golden casket containing a tooth of the Buddha was discovered is now housed inside the dagoba and is on view every June for three days around full moon day. The original name of Buddhangala is not known, one belief is that the name is derived due to the shape of the rock formation, which looks like Buddha in a lying position.
The atmosphere of this place is as soothing as it is full of natural elements. It has a beautiful pond in front of the temple. There is a bridge lying above the pond, and which leads to another temple. In this temple there is a foot print that is worshipped by the pilgrims. And there are grooves in front of the entrance which reduce the amount of the sunlight penetration inside, as it makes the place very cool. There is a structure of an elephant made with bones, which gives an antique look to the temple as well. Along the pathway of the temple, it is planted with many trees which are connected with Buddhism. It is a very calm and composed place to be visited if you are in search of inner peace and harmony.
