Dematamal Viharaya Temple | Okkampitiya

About this Attraction

I’ve always been fascinated by Sri Lanka's historical sites, but my visit to Dematamal Viharaya in Okkampitiya was something truly special. Nestled amidst lush paddy fields in the Monaragala District, this ancient temple felt like a portal to the past—a place where history, legend, and spirituality blended seamlessly.

The Arrival: A Quiet Introduction to the Past

The drive to Dematamal Viharaya took us along the B522 road, just 7 kilometres southeast of Buttala. As we approached, the landscape shifted—green fields stretched endlessly, and the rustic village life added a calming charm to the journey.

Upon arrival, the simplicity of the temple entrance surprised me. Unlike some grand temples I’d visited, Dematamal Viharaya had a humble presence, making it feel even more authentic and sacred.

Stepping Back in Time: The Stupa’s Silent Wisdom

The ancient brick stupa stood proudly at the heart of the temple grounds. Built by King Mahanaga in the 3rd century BC, its weathered surface told stories of centuries gone by.

I placed my hand on the cool bricks, trying to imagine the countless pilgrims who had done the same for over two thousand years. The stupa's rounded form seemed to defy time, standing as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Anuradhapura period.

The Legends Come Alive: The Tale of the Two Brothers

Standing beside the stupa, our guide shared the legend that makes Dematamal Viharaya so significant.

He recounted how Prince Saddhatissa sought refuge after losing a battle against his brother, Prince Dutugemunu. The monks hid him beneath their beds when Dutugemunu arrived in pursuit. However, seeing his brother hidden under the monks’ protection, the prince respected their sanctuary and spared his brother’s life.

I closed my eyes for a moment, picturing the intensity of that moment—two brothers, once at odds, later reunited by the wisdom of the monks. It’s incredible how this quiet, unassuming temple played a crucial role in uniting Sri Lanka’s forces to reclaim Anuradhapura.

Exploring the Grounds: Echoes of the Past

Walking through the temple compound, I discovered several fascinating features:

• Meditation Cells: These simple stone platforms served as retreats for meditating monks. The solitude of the surroundings made me realize how deeply devoted these monks were to their spiritual practice.
• Guard Stones: The intricate carvings on the guard stones were unlike any I’d seen. One stone displayed a mysterious couple, possibly representing a Bodhisattva with a consort—a unique artistic feature specific to southern Sri Lanka.
• Bodhigara: Near the sacred Bo tree, I found the Bodhigara—a simple yet profound structure built to protect the holy fig tree, which was planted from a sapling of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura.

A Visit to the Museum: Artifacts from Another Era

The temple museum was a small but fascinating stop. Inside, I saw age-old artefacts, including a bust of a Bodhisattva.

The guide explained how these statues once adorned the temple, bearing witness to the fusion of Mahayana and Theravada Buddhist traditions. Stone inscriptions, carved utensils, and old relics further enriched my understanding of the temple's historical significance.

Moments of Solitude: The Sacred Bo Tree

I spent some quiet time beneath the sacred Bo tree, which had grown strong and majestic over centuries.

The cool shade, the rustling leaves, and the soft chants of prayers from nearby devotees created an atmosphere of profound peace. I lit a small clay oil lamp, offering gratitude for the lessons of history and humility that this sacred site had revealed.

The View Beyond the Temple: A Picture of Simplicity

As I exited the temple compound, the paddy fields stretched toward the horizon, glistening under the afternoon sun.

The stillness of the landscape, contrasted with the temple’s rich historical and spiritual energy, left me with a sense of calm I hadn’t felt in a long time.

Tips for Future Visitors

1. Visit Early Morning or Late Afternoon: The midday sun can be intense, so early or late visits offer a cooler, more peaceful experience.
2. Dress Modestly: As with any Buddhist temple, it’s essential to cover your shoulders and knees.
3. Take a Local Guide: Their insights into the temple’s history and legends add depth to your visit.
4. Explore Nearby Sites: Maligawila Buddha Statue and Yudaganawa Temple are worth visiting if you have time.
5. Stay Hydrated: Monaragala can get quite warm, so keep water handy.

Final Thoughts: A Temple of Reconciliation

My visit to Dematamal Viharaya was much more than a historical excursion. It was a journey through time, filled with stories of conflict and compassion, monastic devotion, and the remarkable resilience of ancient Sri Lanka.

The tale of two brothers, the hidden prince, and the monks who chose peace over power left me pondering how, even today, kindness and wisdom can resolve the greatest of conflicts.

As I walked away from the temple, I turned back for one last glance.

The brick stupa stood unwavering, like a silent guardian of history, whispering the eternal lesson of unity and forgiveness.

Weather in next three days near this attraction

MONARAGALA WEATHER

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