An ancient royal temple and archaeological site linked to the self-sacrificing King Sri Sangabodhi, with a rare intact circular relic house.

Overview

The Attanagalla Raja Maha Vihara is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the Gampaha District, set among lawns and greenery east of Gampaha town. Its centrepiece is a large white stupa, and the registered archaeological site preserves an ancient vatadage, a circular relic house of a type rare in Sri Lanka. Quiet and dignified, it is an important pilgrimage spot associated with a famous act of royal self-sacrifice.

History

According to the ancient chronicles, this is the place where the pious 3rd-century King Sri Sangabodhi gave up his own head to a poor man so that the reward set on it could relieve poverty, fulfilling the perfection of generosity (dana paramita). The temple was patronised by successive kings and has been rebuilt over the centuries, retaining its status as a major heritage and pilgrimage site.