Naindanawa Raja Maha Viharaya

The ancient "Naindanawa Raja Maha Viharaya", has a Historical, Archeological and Religious value and there anyone can see a "Giant Cobra with 7 Heads (Hoods)" carved on a solid rock and also a "Bahirawa Rupa" a stone statue just next to this magnificent piece of art. 

This Giant Cobra carving has been identified as the world's biggest and the oldest with a vast historical value at the moment. 

"Bahirawa" - is a devil who protect treasures. Where ever a Temple or Shrine built, Bahirawa is carved to protect the place. Bahirawa is not a Forest God; in Ceylon he is known as "Bahirawa Deviyo", and as a form of the God Shiva, he is a deity of the Underworld, or Paatala.

History revealed that this Giant Cobra statue has been worshiped by "Nagas" of Sri Lanka way back 6th BC.

The Naga people (Naga meaning Snake or Serpent) were the aborginal inhabitants of Sri Lanka who existed in 6 BC to 3 CE in the Western and Northern part of Sri Lanka, mostly along the coast. They are said to have lived among Yakkha, Raksha and Deva according to the Mahavamsa and they may have been snake - worshippers.

Giant Cobra statue with Seven Hoods carved on a solid rock.

Bahirawa statue.

Old Shrine House.

Maharahath Kuggajatissa Thero's staue.

Ancient Rock Pillar. 

Present Incumbent of "Naindanawa Raja Maha Viharaya - Ven. Karagaswewa Sumanasara Thero" has developed the temple premises up to a certain standard as you will seen today.

This ancient temple is situated in the remote village of Palagama, Agare in Polpithigama in Kurunegala district.

Closest town : Rambe
Local Authority : Polpitigama
District : Kurunegala

Script & Photographs by - Deshamanya Mano de Silva of "Rithika's Hideout".
Tel - 0773 508 609 (for additional information)