Maraluwawa Raja Maha Viharaya

Maraluwawa Raja Maha Viharaya is a very ancient and an old temple which is situated in Kurunegala district. The temple is situated on a top of a rock and the view is breathtaking. Although the road is built up to the top, walking all the way gives you great pleasure and you can view the beauty of the area. On a clear day you will see the blotted image of "Nuckels" mountain range at the end of paddy fields. From the other side you can see the beautiful Kurunegala city, famous"Athugala" rock and the "Adagala" rock. Not only that but also the view of "Kurunegala Lake" will wash away all you tiredness in a few seconds. The view is awesome.

When we consider about the temple, apart from its age it is important because it is the temple which the last arahath thero of Sri Lanka (Arahath Maliyadewa) and many other arahath theros lived and this the place where Arahath Pushpadewa attained nibbana. There is a nice story behind this and that story is painted on the walls of the shrine room and they are still clear. Also there are many caves which was used by the monks to meditate. Considering all of this things "Maraluwawa Raja Maha Viharaya" is a place where you should really visit.

This temple was considered to build by King Dutugamunu in 2BC. After that King Valagamba, King Parakum the vi th, King Vathhimi Keerithi sri Rajasinhe looked after this temple and developed in their reigns.

The road to this temple is very clear. You have to come to Kurunegala then come along the Dambulla road. When you come 2kms on that road turn to Hiripitiya road which most of the people known as "Dolukanda road". 1.5km drive will take you to the Maraluwawa junction and on the left hand side of the road you can see the Makara Thorona, the entrance to the temple. In the right hand side you can find the road map. 

 

Route to Maraluwawa Raja Maha Viharaya from Kurunegala Bus stand : 

 

There are many places to  visit in Kurunegala. Therefore if someone wish to travel to Kurunegala add this venue to your list and visit to experience the beauty of the nature around the visinity of Maralwawa Raja Maha Viharaya.