Vaarana Rajamaha Viharaya

Vaarana Rajamaha Viharaya is a very old and beautiful cave temple located in the Gampaha district, near Yakkala. This temple has a history that goes back over 2,000 years! It was built inside natural rock caves. Legend says that King Walagamba used these caves as a hiding place when he was fighting against invaders. The temple is built on three different levels on a hillside, surrounded by big trees and peaceful nature. 

📌 Why Should You Visit

🌟Ancient History: You can see how people built temples inside giant rocks thousands of years ago.

🌟Peaceful Setting: Unlike famous temples in cities, this place is very quiet and perfect for meditation. 

🌟Unique Architecture: The temple is divided into three sections: The Lower Temple, the Middle Temple, and the Upper Temple.

📌Other Important Details

➡️King Walagamba: He is the most famous king associated with this temple.

➡️Large Reclining Buddha: Inside the main cave, there is a massive and beautiful statue of the reclining Buddha.

➡️Ancient Inscriptions: You can find old “Brahmi” writings on the rock drip – ledges, which prove how old this place really is.

📌Things to Do There

✅Climb to the Top: Walk up the stone steps to reach the highest point of the rock for a great view. 

✅Worship at the Caves: Visit each level to see the statues and the ancient paintings on the cave ceilings.

✅Feed the Fish: There is a small, calm pond near the entrance where you can sometimes see fish. 

✅Explore the Jungle Path: Walk around the base of the rock to see smaller caves that were used by monks in the past.

📌How to Get There

🚗From Colombo: Take the main Colombo-Kandy Road.

🚗The Turn-off: When you reach Yakkala or Thihariya, turn towards the Kirindiwela road.

📍Location: The temple is about 5km from the main Kandy road. You can easily find it using Google Maps or by asking locals.

📌What Experience Can Visitors Get

➕A feeling of stepping back in time to ancient Sri Lanka.

➕The freshness of the cool breeze that blows through the caves. 

➕A spiritual and relaxing break away from the busy traffic of the Kandy road.

📌Important Tips and Guides

⚠️Dress Properly: Wear white or light-colored clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. 

⚠️Watch Your Step: The stone steps can be a bit slippery, especially after it rains. Wear comfortable shoes. 

⚠️Monkeys: There are many monkeys around the temple. Keep your food and bags safe! 

⚠️Quiet Please: Since it is a place of worship and meditation, try to keep your voice low. 

Vaarana Rajamaha Viharaya is a hidden gem in the Gampaha area. It’s a perfect place for anyone who loves history, nature, and peace. If you are traveling on the Kandy road, it is well worth taking a small detour to visit this amazing rock temple.