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  • 5/5 nadeesha n. 3 years ago on Google • 73 reviews
    If you also plan to travel a long distance on the highway, don't forget to get out of the Galle exit and visit this place.A short walk from the highway exit, you will come across this precious ancient site that is so refreshing to look at.It is a temple that dates back to centuries and its value is further enhanced by its antiquity.However, the place is still managed cleanly due to its value. Can park your vehicle in its own your way and also have toilet facilities.I urge you to worship at the temple without destroying the environment.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Akalanka K. 2 years ago on Google
    Old Buddhist temple complex built into rock formations featuring many statues & a serene atmosphere. Distance from unawatuna beach only 3.6km.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Suraj Anuradha V. 2 years ago on Google
    A Raja Maha Viharaya is located about 7.4 km from Galle. The temple is situated on a rock and consists of a 9 m reclining Buddha. Its walls are painted with murals and the temple follows a similar structure to the Rock Cave Temple of Dambulla. This temple has been recipient of royal patronage from three kings of Sri Lanka, King Devanam Piyatissa, King Parakramabahu II and King Sri Vikrama Rajasingha.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michiel B. 3 months ago on Google • 910 reviews New
    Lovely place. Beautiful statues, buildings, wall paintings and more. Lovely and impressive. A joy to stroll around or just sit.

  • 5/5 Deniss R. 2 months ago on Google • 836 reviews New
    Such a nice temple

  • 5/5 Osanda V. 1 year ago on Google • 80 reviews
    Huge temple near the Galle city. Very calm and quiet environment. Good place for meditation. Huge rocks can be seen. Very clean and neat temple. Must visit if you are a tourist or local.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kamal R. 5 years ago on Google
    Beautifully crafted historical Buddhist temple. Statues are crafted under granite rocks. If you are visiting Unawatuna area a must see.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carol A. 1 year ago on Google
    This is a small temple nestled in a rock so its a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. The place is tended by some lovely people and they appreciate the support to the temple, there is a 500LKR fee for entering.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Varuna L. 10 months ago on Google • 131 reviews
    A Mesmerizing Journey into Tranquility: Exploring the Ancient Buddhist Temple Amidst Nature's Splendor-Yatagala Raja Maha viharaya Nestled amidst a breathtaking landscape adorned with lush greenery, majestic caves, serene water ponds, enchanting trees, and awe-inspiring statues, lies an ancient Buddhist temple that offers a truly unforgettable experience. As an avid traveler and seeker of spiritual enlightenment, I embarked on a journey to this hidden gem, and it exceeded all my expectations. The moment I arrived, I was instantly captivated by the temple's harmonious fusion with its natural surroundings. The air carried a tranquil aura, gently guiding visitors towards a realm of peace and serenity. The temple's architecture seamlessly blended with the vibrant tapestry of nature, creating a remarkable sight to behold. One of the highlights of this temple is the magnificent network of caves that lie beneath its foundations. Exploring these subterranean passageways is akin to embarking on a mystical adventure. Dimly lit, the caves exude an ethereal atmosphere, leading you deeper into the secrets of the temple's past. The occasional sound of dripping water echoing through the caverns adds to the sense of wonder, leaving you in awe of the ancient mystique that lingers within. As I emerged from the caves, a sparkling water pond came into view, surrounded by verdant foliage and ancient trees. The pond's crystal-clear waters mirrored the temple's towering statues, reflecting their divine presence with an otherworldly allure. Here, visitors are encouraged to meditate and find solace, rejuvenating their spirits in the gentle embrace of nature. The temple grounds are adorned with a myriad of statues, each meticulously crafted to exude a sense of reverence and grace. These artistic masterpieces bring to life the profound teachings of Buddhism, reminding visitors of the power of compassion, wisdom, and enlightenment. Walking amongst these statues, I felt a profound connection with the ancient wisdom they represent. The temple's high vantage point grants panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Standing at this elevated position, one can witness nature's magnificence unfold before their eyes. The undulating hills, the dancing trees, and the distant horizons evoke a sense of awe and humility, reminding us of our place within the grand tapestry of existence. Moreover, the temple's serene ambiance is complemented by the gentle chants of resident monks. Their melodic voices resonate through the air, creating an atmosphere of spiritual transcendence that invites introspection and self-discovery. Engaging in a conversation with these wise souls can provide valuable insights and a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy. In conclusion, my visit to this ancient Buddhist temple filled me with a profound sense of tranquility and reverence for the wonders of nature. It is a place where history, spirituality, and natural beauty converge harmoniously, offering visitors an opportunity to embark on a transformative journey of the mind, body, and soul. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, cultural enrichment, or simply wish to immerse yourself in the natural splendor that surrounds us, this temple is an oasis of serenity that should not be missed.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sameera S. 6 months ago on Google • 121 reviews
    Very pictureque. Well organized & maintained religiouse place. A must visit...There is a seperate concrted pathway to top of the cliff. If youare not comfortable with stairs you can take that way.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 dewmina u. 1 year ago on Google
    This is a mind relaxing Buddhist temple. Not far away from the Galle. The temple was built on the rocks and there are so many places that are covered by the rocks and it will give you a peaceful vibe.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sumudu S. 1 year ago on Google
    Calm and clean temple with peachful area..can access unawatuna junction road easily.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Petr K. 1 year ago on Google
    Many tourists are looking for "famous attractions" in Sri Lanka, so they miss out on much more interesting places. One of them is a unique small Buddhist monastery in Yatagala.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lakkitha D. 2 years ago on Google
    Constructed during king parakrabahu II. Good place to see. Many caves and art work done done long ago.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Jayasanka U. 2 months ago on Google • 109 reviews New
    If you search for tourist attractions near Galle, this would be one of them. This temple is not far from Galle Town, and therefore, you can easily go there. As its name contains "Rajamaha Viharaya," its history might go back thousands of years. Still, we can see old paintings in the "vihara geya," or shrine. One of the features is that we can see a few caves. Some of the rocks are hanging with the support of adjoining rocks. The design of this temple and its calm surroundings are also attractive. When I visited the place, I saw that forgers were also visiting it. For locals, there are also logging facilities available for those who are going on pilgrimages.

  • 5/5 Ann K. 2 months ago on Google • 28 reviews New
    Very beautiful, calm and peaceful place. Entrance 1000 lkr for two adults and a baby. Interesting small excursion and we saw a varan, two monkey and fed dogs. I recommend this place! It impressed. I feel there very comfortable.

  • 5/5 Celia J. 2 months ago on Google • 6 reviews New
    Lovely temple in wonderful setting. Well worth the walk up the many steps, there’s is a fee of Rs. 500 which I was happy to pay for the privilege viewing their place of worship

  • 5/5 Con K. 6 months ago on Google
    Very beautiful and peaceful.

  • 5/5 Chamilka A. 7 months ago on Google
    Such a beautiful and calm place.

  • 1/5 Gimani G. 2 months ago on Google • 3 reviews New
    I recently visited this temple with a group of French students, and the experience left a sour taste. As we approached, a very young monk approached us, asking for Rs.500 from each to enter the temple, a fee not mentioned anywhere outside. This money-focused approach felt wrong and was quite off-putting. This seemed far from true Buddhism and left us with a sense of shame about the temple and Sri Lanka's representation of Buddhism to tourists. In my opinion, they should have clear signage indicating the entrance fee, rather than surprising visitors. This approach tarnishes the image of both Sri Lanka and Buddhism. I would recommend exploring other temples in Galle that uphold the true spirit of Buddhism without attempting to commercialize it.

  • 5/5 S L. 4 months ago on Google
    It is a very pleasant place for quieting down and thinking. It is in a very nice environment and there are no crowds.

  • 5/5 Csobán Endre P. 2 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous, relaxed temple in the nature.

  • 5/5 shashini n. 11 months ago on Google
    I’m so grateful for the peace that comes from this beautiful place.

  • 2/5 Nishantha P. 1 year ago on Google
    I gone last poya day that place wase very attractive place l field a freedom

  • 5/5 Tharini W. 1 year ago on Google
    It's a beautiful and calming place to visit. Rock caves were so cool to walk on.. ✌🏻

  • 5/5 Nevil R. 1 year ago on Google
    This temple is very old historical temple. History gose up to king dewanampiyathissa time. Just 7.5km away from the Galle town. You can reach via eramudugaha junction. Put you can go though wanchawala in A17 bus route as well. The temple is completely built on a rock. Good view when you climb to top.

  • 4/5 Kate 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful and peaceful temple, but you need to pay RS 500 to enter

  • 5/5 D JAY I. 2 years ago on Google
    Best mind cooler place and Lovely beautiful natural temple❤👍🤘

  • 5/5 Sasanka A R W M R 6. 3 years ago on Google
    Ancient and beautiful place to visit

  • 5/5 Uthpala W. 1 year ago on Google
    Excellent location to relax your mind! An ancient Buddhist Temple located close to the Galle highway exit

  • 5/5 Hello my f. 3 years ago on Google
    Calm and quiet place to relax. You can see lot of rocks in the site

  • 5/5 Kanishka D. 2 years ago on Google
    Ancient temple. Calm place.


Call +94 912 222 199 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✗ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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