Historical Sites

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.

Batadombalena

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Waulpane Ruins

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

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.

Ammaduwa Kuda Kathragama Dewalaya

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

Sri Abhaya Thilakarathnaramaya

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

Galtemyaya Ruins

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

Weththewa Ambalama

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