Devanagala
Raja Maha Viharaya
Temple
Historical Place
Cultural Attraction
Overview
Devanagala Raja Maha Viharaya is a famous archaeological site located near Mawanella in the Sabaragamuwa region of Sri Lanka. In addition, this historic rock temple is well known for housing ancient royal stone inscriptions.
Because it features panoramic summit views and ancient stone ruins, Devanagala Raja Maha Viharaya provides an extraordinary cultural experience for travelers. Therefore, it is a very popular destination for visitors exploring the Kegalle district.
Furthermore, the high granite plateau offers a peaceful environment to watch sunrises and study 12th-century history. However, visitors should plan their journey during morning hours to avoid walking on hot rock surfaces.
Consequently, travelers can easily plan their trip using Google Maps to find the location.
Location on Map
Things To See
What can we do ?
Devanagala Raja Maha Viharaya is a prominent archaeological and spiritual destination offering ancient site exploration, mountain viewpoints, and historical study.
Explore ancient 12th-century stone inscriptions written during the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great
Climb to the flat rocky summit plateau for panoramic views of Utuwankanda, Bathalegala, and the central hills
Observe historic temple shrine rooms featuring traditional Kandyan-era Buddha statues and wall paintings
Discover stone ruins of ancient stupas and rock-cut water ponds scattered across the temple grounds
Enjoy peaceful spiritual atmosphere and nature walks shaded by ancient Bodhi trees and rock boulders
Which time best for visit ?
The Dry Season from December to April is the best session for traveling to Devanagala Raja Maha Viharaya, ensuring dry rock walking surfaces and clear summit valley visibility.
Early Morning (Sunrise / Golden Hour)
Best for comfortable climbing, avoiding hot rock surfaces, cool breezes, and soft lighting for photography
Late Afternoon (Sunset / Golden Hour)
Ideal for relaxed historical walks, watching sunset hues over Mawanella valley, and cool temple shade
Midday
Not recommended due to harsh sun heat on open granite rock floors where shoes must be removed near shrines
Night
Not suitable as mountain rock walking paths are unlit and steep rock edges pose safety risks after dark
Early Morning (Sunrise / Golden Hour)
Cool weather, soft light, fewer crowds
Late Afternoon (Sunset / Golden Hour)
Warm tones, scenic skies, ideal for photos
Midday
Not recommended due to heat and harsh sunlight
Night
Suitable only for city lights and special photography
How can we arrive?
Devanagala Raja Maha Viharaya is located in Devanagala near Mawanella, roughly 5 km from Hemmathagama road and 90 km from Colombo.
By Bus
Board any main bus traveling along the Colombo–Kandy main highway (A1). Get off at Mawanella Town, followed by a local bus towards Hemmathagama / Devanagala, then take a short tuk-tuk ride to the rock base.
By Train
Take the Main Line train from Colombo Fort to Rambukkana Railway Station or Kadugannawa Railway Station. From the station, board a local bus or private taxi to Mawanella and Devanagala.
ByPrivete Vehicle
Drive via the Colombo–Kandy road (A1 highway) to Mawanella town. Turn onto the Mawanella–Hemmathagama road, turn towards Devanagala, and drive up to the temple base parking area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historic significance of Devanagala Raja Maha Viharaya?
It contains famous 12th-century stone inscriptions documenting King Parakramabahu's invasion of Burma and land grants to General Nuwaragalaba.
How long does it take to climb Devanagala Rock Temple?
he walk up constructed stone steps from the parking base to the summit temple takes about 15 to 25 minutes.
What should visitors wear when visiting Devanagala Temple?
Modest white or light-colored attire covering shoulders and knees is required when entering sacred temple grounds.
