This viharaya is situated on same road leading to the famous
Dimbulagala Raja Maha Viharaya from Pollonnaruwa
but few kilometres before. This is also built on the same rocky mountain range
which Dimbulagala stands but this place seems to be rarely visited. Therefore
the unspoilt nature and the ancient monuments standing alone inside the forest
makes this a very enjoyable trip.
At the entrance are newer buildings. From here you have to walk about ¾
kilometres towards the top of the mountain. There are few places you have to
climb, but generally it’s a pleasurable walk with a mild climb.
We were also accompanied by the temple dog all the way to the top and directed
us when we were not sure which way to go. (we were the only people there) Once
we were at the top, he directed us to all the monuments one by one and came
down with us.
Passing the main site, there are caves which priests sat in meditation and
a pond, but this area has not been cleared and is covered by jungle. A path through this jungle leads to the Ancient Akasa Chaithiya on the summit of Dimbulagala.
Unlike Dimbulagala Raja Maha Viharaya which is
now renovated and lost its ancient look, this temple has gone through very minimum
restoration just enough to stop further destruction.
