Aluvihara Cave Temple (Independent)

The ancient Aluvihara Cave Temple, located on the outskirts of Matale just north of Kandy, holds immense religious significance in Sri Lanka. It was within these sacred caves that the teachings of Buddha, known as the Tripitaka, were first committed to writing in the 3rd century AD.

Best Time: Year-round

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Nestled amidst serene surroundings, Aluvihara Monastery is a captivating destination that beckons travelers with its rich history and spiritual significance. A notable highlight is the cave dedicated to the Venerable Buddhagosa, the revered monk who meticulously documented the doctrines of Buddha in Pali within these very walls. This ancient language has profoundly influenced the development of the Sinhala language.

The monastery complex is adorned with expansive caves, each intricately decorated with images of Lord Buddha and stunning frescoes reminiscent of those found at the renowned Dambulla Cave Temple. As you explore, you’ll encounter the first two caves, which house impressive 10-meter reclining Buddha statues and ceilings adorned with intricate lotus-pattern murals. The second cave offers a more somber experience, featuring vivid, cartoon-style murals depicting the realms of hell, serving as a stark reminder for potential sinners. One particularly striking image is of a sinner having his brains ladled out by demons.

Dominating the landscape, a massive Golden Buddha statue stands atop a square rocky outcrop, bestowing blessings with outstretched palms.

The monastery’s name, Aluvihara, is steeped in legend. According to local lore, a giant once used three of the rocks here as the base for his enormous cooking pot, leaving behind ashes from his fire, which inspired the name “Ash Monastery.”

At the entrance, a quaint museum offers a glimpse into the past with displays of the Tipitaka texts. These sacred Buddhist scriptures, painstakingly rewritten on palm leaves, were restored after the original Aluvihara library was tragically destroyed by British troops during the 1848 rebellion.

Aluvihara Monastery is not just a place of worship but a testament to the resilience of cultural heritage, making it an unmissable site for any traveler seeking to delve into Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist history.