Location Pidurangala, Sri Lanka Province Central Province Architectural type Buddhist temple | Affiliation Buddhism District Matale District | |
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Heritage designation Archaeological protected monument Similar Pidurangala Rock, Sigiriya, Minneriya National Park, Dambulla cave temple, Adam's Peak | ||
Tnl rupavahini urumaya sri lanka official trailer 02 pidurangala viharaya
Pidurangala Vihara (Sinhalese: පිදුරංගල විහාරය) is an ancient Buddhist temple situated in Pidurangala village of Matale District, Sri Lanka. The temple was constructed on a massive rock called Pidurangala, which is located a few kilometers north of the historical fort Sigiriya.
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Tnl rupavahini urumaya sri lanka official trailer 01 pidurangala viharaya
Etymology
It is said that the name "Pidurangala" was derived from the Sinhalese word "pidu + ran + goda". In English language it means "offered piles of gold".
History
It is believed that the history of Pidurangala Vihara is goes back beyond to the first and second century BC. From those days Pidurangala was used as a Buddhist monastery and but became a prominent place during the reign of King Kashyapa (473 - 495 AC).
According to ancient chronicles, Prince Kashyapa had killed his father King Dhatusena and fled to Sigiriya to find out a more secure place to prevent retaliation attacks from his half-brother, Mugalan. With the arrival of King Kashyapa, the Bhikkus who were medidated there were requested move to the nearby Pidurangala. In a sort of compensation, King Kashyapa refurbished the temple and made it a prominent place.
The temple
The temple was said to be 'panchavasa', consisting of five main ritual buildings. Among the buildings are Ancient Stupa, Chapter House, Image House, Bodhighara, Preaching hall, Sangharama (Bikku Residence Building) and inscriptions with drip ledged caves can be seen.