Distance from Tangalle – 65.2 km (1 hour 46 minutes)

Gatabaruwa Raja Maha Viharaya is a historic Buddhist temple which is situated in the village of Kotapola in the Matara district of southern Sri Lanka. It is a cave temple which is situated on a hill. The temple is located in a scenic environment surrounded by the Rakwana, Sinharaja and Morawaka mountain ranges. The cave houses a large statue of Lord Buddha in the sleeping state with Mugalan Thero and Sariuth Thero at his feet and the side of his head, respectively. Gatabaruwa Raja Maha Viharaya is believed to have been built by King Walagamba who reigned the Anuradhapura kingdom. It was built as a tribute to god Rajjuru Bandara who gave protection to the king when he was hiding from his allies in the Ruhunu and Maya regions.

Getting to Gatabaruwa Raja Maha Viharaya

From Tangalle travel along the Tangalle – Weeraketiya Road, Walasmulla-Julampitiya Road and Kotapola – Urubokka – Mulatiyana Road passing Abakolawewa, Julampitiya, Katuwana and Urubokka up to Kotapola to reach the Gatabaruwa Raja Maha Viharaya which is situated in the village of Kotapola in the Matara district.

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