Pidurangala Temple
Pidurangala Vihara is an ancient Buddhist temple situated in
Pidurangala village of Matale District, Sri Lanka. The temple was constructed
on a massive rock called Pidurangala, which is located a few kilometers north
of the historical fort Sigiriya.
It is believed that the history of Pidurangala Vihara goes
back beyond to the first and second century BC.From those days Pidurangala was
used as a Buddhist monastery but became a prominent place during the reign of
King Kashyapa (473–495 AC).
Pidurangala Temple
Inscriptions in early Brahmi script
According to ancient chronicles, Prince Kashyapa had killed
his father King Dhatusena and fled to Sigiriya to find out a more secure place
to prevent retaliation attacks from his half-brother, Mugalan. With the arrival
of King Kashyapa, the Bhikkus who were meditated there were requested move to
the nearby Pidurangala. In a sort of compensation, King Kashyapa refurbished
the temple and made it a prominent place.
The temple was said to be panchavasa, consisting of five
main ritual buildings. Among the buildings are Ancient Stupa, Chapter House,
Image House, Bodhighara, Preaching Hall, Sangharama (Bikku Residence Building)
and inscriptions with drip-ledged caves can be seen.
Pidurangala Rock is a towering rock popular as a hiking spot
which is situated a few kilometers north of Sigiriya. It is a suitable
destination for moderate hikes and climbs to the top of the rock and popular
for panoramic views, especially of Sigiriya along with the Sigiriya Rock
Fortress. There is a giant reclining Buddha statue about halfway up the rock,
which is partially reconstructed out of brick. At the base of the rock is the
Pidurangala Sigiri Rajamaha Viharaya which is a white temple by the road.
Hiking Pidurangala Rock
The hike to Pidurangala rock should take approximately 30 to
40 minutes in total. The rock opens at 5 am and is best hiked in time to catch
the sunrise or sunset. Pidurangala Rock stands at a height of approximately
200m. Care should be taken on the way up the rock due to the existence of many
loose rocks and snakes.
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