About Kadurugoda Raja MahaViharaya
Affiliation: Buddhism
District: Jaffna
Province: Northern Province
Location: Chunnakam, Sri Lanka
Geographic Coordinates: 09°45′N 80°01′E
Importance: Religion, History, Architecture
Where is Kadurugoda Rajamaha Viharaya?
The temple, which is also known as the Kandarodai/Katiramalai heritage site in Jaffna, is a popular tourist destination. It is 14 kilometers away from Jaffna town and displays a collection of dagabas (pagodas). It is located in the town of Chunnakan in the province of Jaffna. In Sri Lanka, this site is regarded as the country’s first archeological site and is managed by the country’s archaeological department. Jaffna was a center for Buddhism during this time period. It served as a Buddhist mercantile hub among the Tamils. Apart from that, this is the only remaining historical site in Jaffna. There are 62 dagabas (pagodas)in various sizes that were discovered during the excavation, and they are all made of limestone.
There are still some limestone structures left, known as dagaba (pagoda), that stand on a grassy field surrounded by Palmyra trees today. Additionally, they have discovered additional information collected at the Jaffna museum, such as a collection of old coins, a Buddha statue, stone inscriptions, and a variety of other foreign materials. These structures, according to archaeological evidence, date back to the second century. This historical site used to be frequented by a large number of religious believers and students. The majority of Indian tourists claim that these Stupas are the same as India’s Sanchi Stupa, which is not true.
This ancient Buddhist site is one of the most visited sites in the world, drawing in a large number of visitors. There are no Buddhist monks in this location because it is not a place of residence for a religious leader. There is an army camp in the vicinity of this historical site. The majority of Buddhist travelers are eager to pay a visit to this location. According to the majority of people, this structure is on par with the Boro-Budur temple in Indonesia.
This is the only remaining Buddhist historical site in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. The majority of Indian tourists claim that these stupas are the same as India’s Sanchi Stupa, which is not true. According to the majority of people, this structure is on par with the Boro- Budur temple in Indonesia.
Historical Importance
The largest stupa in this area measures approximately 12 feet in diameter. Those are also likely to be votive in the natural world. It’s possible that this structure is 2000 years or older. It is this structure that bears witness to and serves as a reminder of the powerful influence of Sinhalese Buddhists in the Jaffna region prior to the 8th century AD.
When it comes to the Kadurugoda temple, there are a plethora of different beliefs. It is believed that the stupa contains the remains of 60 arahath monks who used to live in the “Punkuduthiv” area and were expelled. Furthermore, it is believed that Lord Buddha visited and stayed at this site during his second visit to Sri Lanka, and those believed to be from the Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura periods are believed to exist. King Kashaya made a donation to this location in the 9th century, according to the “Aththane Tam Lipiya.” Another important point to mention is that it is believed that the Kadurugoda temple was destroyed during the reign of King “Sangili” in Jaffna in the 16th century. In 1948, there were 7 acres of land, which included this heritage site, but it is sad to say that today there are only less than 3 acres left due to illegal encroachment by the village people of Jaffna, who have taken over the land.
The temple of Kadurugoda continues to provide more and more evidence of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist culture. It also demonstrates the historical development of Buddhist culture. As a result, tourists can gain a comprehensive understanding of Sri Lanka’s long and varied history. Currently, the Sri Lanka Army is responsible for the upkeep of this temple. If you are planning a trip to Jaffna, this is the most important and visually appealing heritage site in the area, and it is also the only one of its kind for Buddhists on the Jaffna peninsula.
It is believed that the Kadurugoda temple in Jaffna was built in the 8th century AD. King Kashaya made a donation to this location in the 9th century, according to the “Aththane Tam Lipiya” Sri Lanka Army is currently responsible for the upkeep of this temple.
Is Sri Lanka expensive?
Sri Lanka can still be reasonably affordable if you stick to local transportation and budget guesthouses. You can still travel by bus from one end of the island to the other for around $25, get a filling meal at local cafés for a few dollars, and find a decent double room for less than $100, all while staying in low-cost guesthouses.
Image Credits
Source: tlc.lk
Where to Stay
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