Magul Maha Viharaya, Yala National Park - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit
Distance (From Yala National Park): 11 Kms
Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1 Hour
Place Location: On Kirinda - Situlpawwa Road
Transportation Options: Cab
Travel Tips: None
At a distance of 11 km from Yala National Park and 12 km from Sithulpawwa, Magul Maha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist monastery situated on Kirinda - Situlpawwa Road, Sri Lanka. It is one of the popular places to visit in Yala National Park.
The ancient Buddhist temple of Magul Maha Viharaya is situated within the Yala National Park and known for its captivating architecture, making it a 'must-see' attraction. This temple is said to be built by King Kavanthissa in the 2nd Century BC on the location where the King married the princess Vihara Maha Devi. They were the parents of rebel King, Dutugemunu who wrote a significant chapter in Sri Lankan history. The foundations of the 'Magul Maduwa' where the wedding ceremony took place can still be seen in the vihara premises.
The entire Vihara complex had covered an extent of around 10,000 acres where ruins of a palace, moonstone, monastery, Bo tree, stupas, ponds, etc. are found scattered all over. The moonstone here is said to be unique in the country as this is the only location where elephants are carved with their mahouts in the moonstone.
Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Free
