マグル マハ ヴィハーラヤ (ラフガラ)

Magul Maha Viharaya – Lahugala

Magul Maha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple located in ラフガラ, near Arugam Bay. Surrounded by lush jungle and archaeological ruins, the temple is believed to date back to the 2nd century BC and is closely tied to Sri Lankan royal history and Buddhist culture.

Magul Maha Viharaya – ancient Buddhist temple ruins

歴史的背景

According to chronicles, Magul Maha Viharaya was built by King Kavan Tissa in the 2nd century BC to commemorate his marriage to Queen Vihara Maha Devi. Over the centuries, it became an important monastic and cultural site, with evidence of ancient stupas, moonstones, and inscriptions scattered across the complex.

主な特徴

• Ruins of ancient stupas and shrines
• Beautiful moonstones and guard stones
• Carvings depicting elephants, lions, and lotus motifs
• Large stone platforms used for religious rituals
• Peaceful jungle surroundings

アクセス方法

• 📍 Location: Lahugala, ~22 km from Arugam Bay (Googleマップで見る)
• 🚖 Transport: Reachable by tuk-tuk, car, or bus from Pottuvil/Arugam Bay
• 🕍 Entry: Open daily, no fixed entry fee (donations welcome)

訪問するのに最適な時間

訪れるのに最適な時期は 乾季（4月から9月）. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for exploring the ruins comfortably and spotting wildlife in the surrounding Lahugala-Kitulana National Park.

近くの観光スポット

• Pottuvil Lagoon – wildlife boat rides (~20 km)
• Arugam Bay Beach – surfing hotspot (~22 km)
• Lahugala National Park – elephants and birdlife (~5 km)
• Kudumbigala Monastery – ancient cave monastery (~30 km)

よくある質問