Friday, November 3, 2017

Pilikuththuwa Rajamaha Viharaya

The Temple

You can reach Pilikuththuwa Temple Via Miriswatta -Colombo Kandy main road.Its about 7km from the Miriswatta junction.History of this temple runs back to the era of King Walagamba where the king was staying hidden from the Chola dynasty.People say the name Pilikuththuwa comes as this area was used to produce garments (Pili) for the king .Another story is that one of the Caves was used to store clothes of the queen and that's the reason for the name Pilikuththuwa. The ancient Dolawa  used by the King Walagamba can be seen in the premises and an ancient wooden bridge ,a water way ,a lotus pond and a small lake can be seen too.



Caves of Pilikuththuwa temple 

You can climb the stairs from the back of the temple and enter to a large forest area where the caves are situated. People say there are about 99 caves which were used by the King and the meditates. Caves are properly built making rain protective carvings (Katarang) and on each cave a stone inscriptions can be seen addressing all the wanderers saying the cave is donated for all.

Giant Vine /Pus Wala 
You meet with a giant Pus Wela/Vine (circumference is about 6 feet)along the way to the top of the mountain.

Cave Paintings 

The Vihara geya is covered with paintings of Kandyan era with a touch of Portuguese influence. 



The Forest

The forest is filled with flora where a lot of herbal varieties can be seen including a range of mushrooms as well as beautiful and colorful vines.The rocks are covered with water from springs and the wetness can be seen all over the forest flourishing all the flora.



View from the top

You can clearly see the sight of Colombo city from the top 





Travelling Tips

* Car park is there at the front of the Temple
* The path to the top of the mountain is bit difficult and dangerous at some places. 
* Can reach to the top and come back within 45 minutes time.



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