Thammennawa Archaeological Reserve
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Archaeology
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Buddhist Temple
About this Attraction
Situated along the Ella–Kurunegala road, just before reaching Anuradhapura near either the Madagama Junction or Thabutta Junction, the Thammennawa Archaeological Reserve, also called Tamannawa, is a remarkable historical and spiritual site in Sri Lanka.
An Ancient Cave Temple of Great Significance
At the heart of this reserve is the Purana Gallen Raja Maha Viharaya, a rock cave temple believed to date back to the 2nd century BCE (Kristhu Purva Devana Siyavasa). Historical records reveal that Prince Abhayathissa, the son of King Gamini Abhaya, founded this temple.
He established 68 caves to accommodate 68 Buddhist monks, showcasing the deep royal patronage of Buddhism during that period. Inscriptions—13 in total—have been discovered throughout the site, offering evidence of its long-standing spiritual significance.
Buddha Statues and Ancient Art
Inside the temple, visitors can witness multiple ancient Buddha statues, along with other figures that historians believe include:
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A King and Queen
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Five guardian deities
These statues are adorned with traces of original colour painting, reflecting the exceptional craftsmanship of the era. The wall murals and decorative paintings, though aged, remain visible — a beautiful testimony to the artistic traditions of ancient Sri Lanka.
One of the engineering marvels at this site is the “kataram”, a rock-carved channel system built to divert rainwater away from the cave entrances. This system highlights the incredible ingenuity of ancient builders.
Conservation and Wildlife
In addition to its archaeological value, Thammennawa is part of an elephant corridor, making it vital for wildlife conservation. Efforts are ongoing to protect both the cultural relics and the natural ecosystem of this historically rich area.
Why Visit Thammennawa?
Thammennawa offers a rare blend of archaeology, spirituality, and nature. It’s a peaceful yet powerful site where the history of kings, monks, and gods comes to life. This lesser-known gem is a must-visit if you're exploring the Anuradhapura region.
Best Time to Visit
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This is at its finest from April to October, providing an ideal setting for unforgettable experiences during these pleasant months.
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Year's busiest month is June
Required time for Explore this Attraction
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Visitors typically require around 2 hour to explore and enjoy its key highlights.
Highlights
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Free Entry
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Parking Available
Weather in next three days near this attraction
Location of this Attraction
Hotel Booking