Nagala Raja Maha Viharaya | Puttalam

About this Attraction

Nestled between two tranquil mountain peaks in Nikawewa, North Western Province, lies the Nagala Raja Maha Viharaya—a temple that seamlessly blends history, spirituality, and natural beauty. My visit to this ancient site turned into a profound exploration of Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage.

The Journey to the Temple

Reaching the temple was an adventure in itself. As I navigated through narrow village roads lined with lush greenery, I felt a sense of calm even before stepping onto the temple grounds. The mountain peaks stood like silent guardians, and with each step, the crisp air carried a whisper of ancient tales waiting to be discovered.

First Glimpse: The Manikya Aloka Dagoba

The first thing that caught my eye was the Manikya Aloka Dagoba, an ancient stupa gracefully standing at the base of the temple complex. Legend has it that this stupa dates back to the reign of King Devanam Piyatissa. The stupa, though weathered by centuries, had an undeniable aura of resilience. Its structure remained intact, defying the passage of time, and I couldn't help but imagine the hands that meticulously crafted it so long ago.

The Spiritual Essence of the Temple

As I walked around the stupa, I learned about the temple's sacred relics, which are believed to include the remains of Gautama Buddha brought from Naga Loka by Sumana Maha Rahath Thero. The mere thought of being in a place connected to such sacred relics filled me with reverence.

The temple grounds exuded tranquillity; the only sounds were the distant chirping of birds and the occasional rustle of leaves swaying in the mountain breeze. It felt like time had paused to allow me to soak in the spiritual essence of the place.

Exploring the Two Peaks

The temple complex is spread across two peaks, approximately 1 km apart. The walk between them was a scenic journey through nature, with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

• The First Peak:
  At the first peak, I was mesmerized by a 45-foot reclining Buddha statue attributed to King Dhatusena. The artistry was intricate, with details reminiscent of the Sigiriya frescoes. I later learned that the Archaeological Department had worked tirelessly to preserve this statue, ensuring future generations could witness this artistic marvel.

• The Second Peak:
  The second peak revealed a temple believed to have been built by Prince Saliya as a Paththini Devalaya. The temple once housed the Naga Kanya Sath Papaththini Prathima, a wooden statue brought from India. Although time and theft had damaged some statues, the remaining fragments still conveyed a sense of devotion.

Historical Echoes and Cultural Insights

The historical layers of Nagala Raja Maha Viharaya are deeply fascinating. As I delved deeper, I learned about its connections to ancient royalty, including Princesses Saliya and Dantha, who donated lands to the temple. This generosity highlighted the temple's cultural importance across generations.

Another intriguing aspect was the discovery of ancient inscriptions and Puskola Poth—palm-leaf manuscripts that offer insights into Buddhist teachings and the temple’s historical significance. These fragile texts, carefully preserved, reminded me of the enduring commitment to safeguarding Sri Lanka's cultural heritage.

Moments of Reflection

One of the most memorable moments was standing before the Samadhi Buddha statue. Though partially damaged, the statue's meditative expression radiated serenity. I sat there for a while, absorbing the tranquillity emanating from the very earth beneath me.

The Role of the Chief Thero

Before leaving, I had the privilege of listening to an account shared by the Chief Thero, Athi Pujya Daladagama Dammasidhi Himipanan. His words painted vivid pictures of the temple’s past, its role in the community, and the efforts taken to protect its legacy. His stories brought history to life, making me appreciate the temple even more.

Final Thoughts

I felt a deep sense of peace and gratitude as I descended from the temple. The Nagala Raja Maha Viharaya is not just a collection of artefacts and statues—it's a living testament to Sri Lanka's spiritual and cultural history. If you seek a place where history and tranquillity intertwine, this sacred temple in Nikawewa is well worth a visit.

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