Sri Lanka’s Cave Temple Legacy: Ridi Viharaya’s Hidden Wonders

Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, Ridi Viharaya is an ancient Theravada Buddhist temple nestled in the village of Ridigama. Steeped in history, this revered site is believed to mark the discovery of silver ore that funded the construction of Ruwanwelisaya, one of Sri Lanka’s grandest stupas.

According to the Mahavamsa and Thupavamsa chronicles, King Dutthagamani of Anuradhapura built this temple complex as an act of gratitude, fulfilling his vision of completing the iconic Ruwanwelisaya. Today, Ridi Viharaya stands as a testament to faith, artistry, and ancient craftsmanship, featuring golden Buddha statues, intricate murals, and serene cave shrines.

A pilgrimage site and architectural gem, it invites visitors to step into a sacred chapter of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage.

Location

Situated in the historic village of Ridigama, the ancient Ridi Viharaya lies approximately 18 km northeast of Kurunegala. For travelers coming from Colombo, Kurunegala serves as a key transit point—located about 94 km northeast of the capital.

The temple is easily accessible via the A6 highway, with the nearest major town being Ibbagamuwa (around 10 km away). This route connects Kurunegala to Dambulla, making it a convenient stop for pilgrims and tourists exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle.