Ridi Viharaya (The Silver Temple)

Ridi Viharaya, also known as the Silver Temple, is an ancient cave temple located in the peaceful village of Ridiagama in the Kurunegala District. Its history dates back to the 2nd century BC during the reign of King Dutugemunu. Legend has it that a silver ore was discovered at this very spot, which provided the silver needed to build the famous Ruwanweli Maha Seya in Anuradhapura. In gratitude, the King built this magnificent temple. 

📌Why Should You Visit

💎 Rich History: It is one of the most important historical sites from the Anuradhapura and Kandyan eras.

💎 Stunning Art: The temple is a treasure trove of Kandyan style wall paintings and intricate wood and ivory carvings. 

💎 Unique Cultural Blend: It is famous for housing blue and white Dutch porcelain tiles that depict biblical scenes a very rare sight in a Buddhist temple! 

📌Other Important Details

🌟 Pancha Nari Ghataya: Look for the famous ivory carving of five women forming the shape of a vase; it is a masterpiece of ancient Sri Lankan art.

🌟 The Golden Buddha: Inside the main cave, there is a beautiful gold plated Buddha statue brought all the way from India by King Dutugemunu. 

🌟 Dutch Tiles: These 18th century tiles were a gift from a Dutch Governor to King Kirti Sri Rajasinha and are paved around the main Buddha altar.

📌Things to Do There

✅ Explore the Caves: Visit the "Maha Viharaya" (Great Temple) and "Uda Viharaya" (Upper Temple) to see the ancient statues. 

✅ See Waraka Waladu Viharaya: This is a smaller, older temple nearby where the first monks were said to have been offered jackfruit (Waraka). 

✅ Climb Sarasumgala: Take a short walk up the rock to the small stupa for a breathtaking 360 degree view of the surrounding mountains and forests.

✅ Photography: Capture the beautiful stone pillars and the massive reclining Buddha statue.

📌How to Get There

↔️ From Kurunegala: Take the Kandy road for about 5km until you reach the Mallawapitiya Junction.

↔️ The Route: Turn left onto the Keppitigala Road and travel about 15km to reach Ridigama town. 

↔️ Transport: You can easily find local buses from the Kurunegala main bus stand heading to Ridigama.

📌What Experience Can Visitors Get

🌟 A deep sense of peace and spirituality away from the city noise.

🌟  A "time travel" experience as you walk through caves that have been used for worship for over 2,000 years. 🇱🇰

🌟  A chance to admire how ancient builders integrated massive rocks into beautiful architecture.

📌Important Tips and Guides

⚠️ Dress Code: As this is a sacred site, please wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees (white clothing is preferred). 

⚠️ Photography: Never pose for photos with your back turned toward the Buddha statues; it is considered very disrespectful.

⚠️ Footwear: You will need to remove your shoes at the entrance, so bringing a pair of socks can help if the ground is hot.

⚠️ Monkeys: Be careful with your belongings as there are many friendly (but curious) monkeys around!

Ridi Viharaya is more than just a temple. It is a living museum of Sri Lankan heritage. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or someone seeking a quiet spiritual escape, this "Silver Temple" is a must visit destination in the Kurunegala area.