Sabaragamuwa Province

Historical sites in Sabaragamuwa Province

This collection highlights the archaeological depth of the Sabaragamuwa region, spanning from the prehistoric era to the Kandyan period. It includes the Beli-Lena and Batadombalena caves, which provided evidence of the Mesolithic 'Balangoda Man.' The list features the ruins of the 16th-century Seethawaka Maligawa palace and the unique Dedigama Kota Vehera, a 12th-century stupa built over a smaller original structure. These sites offer concrete insight into Sri Lanka’s ancient habitation, royal history, and evolution of religious architecture.

Historical Sites — Map

A

Batadombalena

Batadombalena is an archaeological site with evidence of habitation from 8,000 years BCE, Balangoda Man, located 85 km from Colombo in Sri…

B

Beli-Lena Caves

A major prehistoric cave site where skeletal remains of the 12,000-year-old Balangoda Man were discovered. Excavations have revealed evidence of human habitation dating back 30,000 years.

C

Dedigama Kota Vehera

Also known as Sutighara Cetiya, this 12th-century stupa was built by King Parakramabahu I at his birthplace. It is architecturally unique for containing a smaller stupa inside the larger structure.

D

Seethawaka Maligawa

Archaeological remains of the royal palace of the Seethawaka Kingdom, which flourished in the 16th century under King Mayadunne and King Rajasinha I.

E

Devanagala Temple

An ancient temple on a rock plateau featuring a 16th-century stone inscription by King Vimaladharmasuriya I. The site includes ruins of an old image house and provides panoramic views.

F

Waulpane Ruins

Archaeological remains located near the Waulpane limestone cave system, known for its prehistoric significance and ancient fossil deposits.

G

Tomb of Pussadeva

A memorial stupa believed to be the burial site of Pussadeva, one of the ten legendary 'giant' warriors who served in King Dutugemunu's army.

H

Ammaduwa Kuda Kathragama Dewalaya

An ancient shrine dedicated to the deity Kataragama, showcasing traditional religious architecture and historical significance within the regional pilgrimage circuit.

I

Sri Abhaya Thilakarathnaramaya

A historical Buddhist temple and archaeological site featuring traditional religious structures and serving as a local center for spiritual practice.

J

Galtemyaya Ruins

The remains of an ancient Buddhist monastery complex, characterized by surviving stone pillars and foundations of historical structures.

K

Weththewa Ambalama

A well-preserved traditional wayside rest house from the Kandyan period, featuring carved stone pillars designed to accommodate travelers and pilgrims.

Other Lists

Sabaragamuwa Province Essentials Sacred Sites & Temples Natural Wonders of Sri Lanka