Sankapala is where a legendary warrior of King Dutugemunu laid down his weapons to become an enlightened monk, his ashes now honored beneath a dagoba on a rock once abandoned to the jungle for centuries

Why visit Sri Sankapala Rajamaha Viharaya

• Warrior's Sanctuary: The temple is linked to the legend of King Dutugemunu's warrior, Phussadeva. After his victories, he became a monk and found enlightenment here.
• Historic Cave Complex: The temple is built within three ancient caves at the foot of Sankapala Hills. Brahmi inscriptions dating back to the pre-Christian era are visible here.
• Home of an Arahant: The site is considered the abode of an Arahant. A dagoba is believed to have been built over the ashes of Arahant Phussadeva.
• Literary Legacy: The temple was revived by the monk Karathota Dharmarama. He wrote a famous poetic work while in prison, which earned him royal patronage for the temple's restoration.
• Hindu Deity Figures: The caves feature figures and paintings of Hindu gods, depicted as protectors of Buddhism and paying homage to the Buddha, rather than as separate Hindu shrines