Description
Believed to be more than 2000 years old, when Buddhism was first established in the island. The Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya is Just 4km inland from Unawatuna.This is one of the few monuments in the Galle district that explains the history of Sri Lanka. Locally referred to as the ‘Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya’, this ancient rock temple was built during the time King Devanampiya Tissa ruled the Kingdom of Anuradhapura.
The Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya is a quiet rock temple with a 9m reclining Buddha. The mural-covered walls are painted in the typical style of the Kandy an period. As you arise the long flights of stairs, there are good views over the rice fields.
The Yatagala Temple is one of the most beautiful places in Galle and is well worth traveling. The climb up to this sanctified temple is part of the experience and at the summit, you will be greeted by wonderful views of quaint hamlets and idyllic paddy fields. Amongst the attractive features here are the massive boulders around the temple grounds some of which conceal ancient caves that have been used by monks for more than 1,500 years. A sacred Bo tree, a huge statue of Lord Buddha and involved wall murals are a few of the other notable sights of interest at the Yatagala Temple.