Nagala Raja Maha Viharaya
Description
The Nagala Raja Maha Viharaya, located in Nikawewa in the North Western province of Sri Lanka, is steeped in history and spiritual significance. The vihara, nestled between two mountain peaks, features two temple buildings and is renowned for the ancient stupa, Manikya Aloka Dagoba, at its base. This stupa, believed to have been built during King Devanam Piyatissa's reign, has remarkably withstood the test of time, preserving its original form.
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The temple holds great historical importance due to its connection with Sumana Maha Rahath Thero, who is said to have brought the last remains of Gautama Buddha from Naga Loka. These remains, and a plate adorned with gems are highly revered.
King Yatala Tissa later contributed to the temple's renovation, enhancing its grandeur. The temple's archaeological significance was further highlighted by the discoveries of the famous archaeologist Senarath Paranavitana, who drew parallels between the findings at Yatala Vehera in Tissamaharama and this temple. Additionally, the temple was graced with numerous land donations by Princesses Saliya and Dantha.
The two temples on the mountain are approximately 1 km apart. One, built by King Dhatusena, houses a Buddha statue that is about 45 feet long. This statue, along with other nearby drawings, is believed to be influenced by the Sigiriya art culture. The Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka has done commendable work preserving and restoring this Buddha statue and the temple.
The second peak houses a temple believed to have been built by Prince Saliya as a Paththini Devalaya. In ancient times, this temple housed a wooden statue called "Naga Kanya Sath Papaththini Prathima," thought to be brought from India, along with another significant statue, "Palaga Deviyo." The temple also contains a Samadhi Buddha statue, though many have been damaged by thieves, evident from the remaining fragments.
The Nagala Raja Maha Viharaya is also home to a collection of ancient scripts known as "Puskola Poth," adding to its cultural and historical significance. With its rich history and spiritual heritage, this temple complex continues to be a beacon of Buddhist culture in Sri Lanka.
The detailed history and significance of the Nagala Raja Maha Viharaya, as recounted by Chief Thero Athi Pujya Daladagama Dammasidhi Himipanan, offers a deep insight into this sacred site's rich heritage. His account illuminates the temple's historical, religious, and cultural importance in Sri Lanka.