Yudaganawa | Monaragala
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Religious Place
About this Attraction
Nestled along the Wellawaya–Buttala Road, Yudaganawa Temple is a hidden treasure of Sri Lanka, blending rich history, Buddhist heritage, and stunning architectural marvels. My visit to this remarkable site was an enlightening experience as I walked through a place deeply connected to the island’s past and felt a profound sense of awe at the colossal stupa standing before me.
First Impressions – A Grand Stupa with a Mysterious Past
As I approached Yudaganawa Temple, the massive stupa immediately caught my attention. Standing at a staggering circumference of 317 meters (1,038 feet), it is one of the largest stupas in Sri Lanka. Its sheer scale left me speechless, and I couldn’t help but wonder about the stories and legends hidden within its ancient bricks.
What makes this stupa unique is its unusual architectural design—a larger structure built halfway, topped with a smaller stupa. Only a handful of stupas in Sri Lanka share this Kota Vehera style, and each has its own unique characteristics.
The Legend of Yudaganawa – A Battlefield Turned Sacred
The name “Yudaganawa” translates to "the battlefield," a fitting tribute to the historical conflict between Prince Tissa and Prince Gamini (who later became King Dutugemunu). According to history, after the death of their father, King Kavanthissa, the two brothers engaged in a battle for the throne at this very location.
Standing before the stupa, I imagined the clash of armies, the echoes of war drums, and the cries of warriors, now long replaced by the peaceful silence of the temple grounds. It was fascinating to think that a place once marked by war had been transformed into a sanctuary of peace and devotion.
Exploring the Stupa – A Testament to Time and Restoration Efforts
Walking around the stupa, I noticed giant trees growing on its upper platform, a sign of years of abandonment and nature’s quiet reclamation. The ongoing restoration work slowly brings this ancient wonder back to life, with excavations revealing layers of history beneath its massive structure.
Even in its partially restored state, the stupa’s weathered bricks, intricate details, and sheer size tell the story of its former grandeur. The experience was humbling—to stand before something that has witnessed centuries of history, yet remains standing tall.
Chulangani Viharaya – A Forgotten Gem of the Polonnaruwa Era
Nearby, I discovered Chulangani Viharaya, an ancient monastery complex dating back to the Polonnaruwa period (11th-13th century). Walking through the site, I saw ruins of brick structures, a small elevated stupa, and the remains of an old Buddha statue from the Anuradhapura period (6th-7th century).
I was particularly intrigued by the Pathimagara (pilgrimage halls)—once grand spaces that housed Buddha images for veneration. Learning that older statues were relocated here from decaying monuments during the Polonnaruwa era added a new depth to my understanding of Buddhist preservation efforts.
Yudaganawa Wewa – A Serene Escape for Nature Lovers
About 1 km west of Chulangani Viharaya, I stumbled upon Yudaganawa Wewa, an ancient tank built by King Mahasena during the Anuradhapura period. Today, it is an engineering marvel of the past and a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers.
Sitting by the tank, I watched flocks of birds gracefully skim the water’s surface, adding a touch of natural beauty to the historical richness of the Yudaganawa Temple area. The moment's stillness, the cool breeze, and the gentle ripples of the tank made for the perfect end to my visit.
Final Thoughts – A Must-Visit for History Enthusiasts and Spiritual Seekers
My experience at Yudaganawa Temple was nothing short of extraordinary. This sacred place offers a perfect blend of history, legend, architecture, and spirituality, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
✔ For history lovers, the temple’s connection to King Dutugemunu and Prince Tissa, as well as its unique architectural style, make it a historical treasure.
✔ For spiritual seekers, the tranquility of the stupa and Chulangani Viharaya provides a calm and reflective space for those looking to connect with Buddhist teachings.
✔ For nature enthusiasts – The Yudaganawa Wewa offers a peaceful escape with birdwatching opportunities and scenic views.
If you ever find yourself in Buttala, don’t miss the chance to walk through centuries of history at Yudaganawa Temple—where battles turned into blessings and war grounds became a haven of peace.
Best Time to Visit
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This is at its most enchanting from December to March, offering a magical experience during these idyllic months.
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Year's busiest month is April
Required time for Explore this Attraction
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Visitors typically require around 1 hour to explore this attraction and enjoy its key highlights.
Highlights
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Bike Parking
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Free Entry
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Parking Available