Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara, Gampaha
Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara is an ancient cave temple located on a hillock in the Gampaha District of Sri Lanka. Its history is believed to date back to the reign of King Valagamba (89-77 BC), and it received patronage from provincial king Sakalakala Wallabha during the reign of King Parakramabahu VI. The temple is formally recognized as an archaeological site by the Sri Lankan government.
Key Facts
- ›Believed to date back to the reign of King Valagamba (89-77 BC).
- ›Received patronage from provincial King Sakalakala Wallabha.
- ›Features a cave temple with drip ledges constructed with wattle and daub.
- ›Houses a Samadhi Buddha statue in the Kandyan period style within its image house.
- ›An inscription from the 5th century has been discovered on the temple grounds.
- ›Formally recognized as an archaeological site by the Sri Lankan government in 2002.
Important Relationships
- King Valagamba
- Prince Uttiya
- King Kelanitissa
- King Parakramabahu VI
- Sakala Kala Wallabha
Cave Temple With Drip Ledges, Samadhi Buddha Statue, Devalaya, 5th-Century Inscription, Sannasa With Horse Image, Pond On the Rock, Stupa, Stone With Buddha Footprint
Kandyan Period Art
About Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara, Gampaha
Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara: An Ancient Cave Temple
Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara is a significant ancient cave temple located in the Gampaha District of Sri Lanka. Perched atop a hillock along the Gampaha-Minuwangoda road, the temple holds historical and archaeological importance, having been formally recognized as an archaeological site by the Sri Lankan government in 2002.
History and Legends
The origins of Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara are steeped in legend and historical accounts, with its history believed to extend back to the reign of King Valagamba, who ruled from 89-77 BC. According to tradition, King Valagamba sought refuge in this region during his flight from Anuradhapura following invasions from South India around 104 BC. Further historical evidence points to a 5th-century inscription discovered on the temple grounds. During the era of King Parakramabahu VI, the temple is recorded as having received patronage from the provincial king Sakalakala Wallabha.
Architectural and Structural Features
The temple's primary structure is a cave temple characterized by drip ledges, built using traditional wattle and daub techniques. Adjacent to the main cave temple, a Devalaya is situated. The image house, elevated slightly from the floor, is accessed by a wooden staircase. Within the image house, a striking Samadhi Buddha statue, exhibiting artistic features of the Kandyan period, is enshrined. Flanking this central image are depictions of the Buddha in Abaya mudra. The ceiling of the cave is adorned with decorative motifs, including lotus flowers and other floral designs.
On the upper surface of the rock, visitors can find a Sannasa, or deed of grant, which features a depiction of a horse, possibly relating to the temple's nomenclature. A pond carved into the rock is also present, with a Stupa located nearby. At the highest point of the rock, a stone bearing a footprint of the Buddha is preserved, while another large cave with drip ledges can be observed on the opposite side of the rock surface.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara?
The temple's history is thought to extend back to the reign of King Valagamba (89-77 BC), who is said to have stayed in the area. It also received royal patronage during the reign of King Parakramabahu VI.
What are the main architectural features of the temple?
The temple is primarily a cave temple with drip ledges, built using wattle and daub. It includes a Devalaya to the right and an image house with a Samadhi Buddha statue in the Kandyan style.
Are there any notable inscriptions or artifacts at the site?
Yes, a 5th-century inscription has been found on the temple grounds. Additionally, a Sannasa (Deed of grant) with a horse image, a pond on the rock, a stupa, and a stone with a Buddha footprint are present.
When was Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara officially recognized as an archaeological site?
The temple was formally recognized as an archaeological site by the Government of Sri Lanka on November 22, 2002, through government Gazette number 1264.
What is the origin of the name 'Asgiri'?
Legend suggests that the name 'Asgiri' originated from the loss of the horse belonging to Prince Uttiya, brother of King Kelanitissa, in this particular area.
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