Ridee Viharaya

Kurunegala, North Western

Detail of the Pancha Nari Ghataya carving at Ridi Viharaya, the 'Silver Temple' near Kurunegala — Photo: Astronomyinertia / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Wikimedia Commons

Ridi Viharaya, or the "Silver Temple," gets its name from a legend recorded in the ancient Mahavamsa chronicle: King Dutugemunu, running short of funds to complete the great Ruwanwelisaya stupa in Anuradhapura, is said to have discovered a silver ore deposit here in the 2nd century BC, funding its completion. Built into and around a rock outcrop about 200 feet high, the complex was later expanded during the Kandyan era under King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe, and today holds a mix of ancient cave chambers and Kandyan-period paintings. One of its most detailed features is a carved ivory door frame known as the Pancha Nari Ghataya, depicting five women intertwined to form the shape of an elephant.

Heritage & architectureAncient cities & archaeology

Best time to visit

Late morning to early afternoon, when the caves are cool and the hillside views over Kurunegala are clearest.

Visitor tip

Modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is expected; follow photography rules.

Local pick

Look closely at the carved ivory door frame to find the hidden elephant shape formed entirely from five interwoven female figures — easy to miss on a quick look.

Quick answers

Where is Ridee Viharaya?

Ridee Viharaya is in Kurunegala, North Western Province, Sri Lanka.

When is the best time to visit Ridee Viharaya?

Late morning to early afternoon, when the caves are cool and the hillside views over Kurunegala are clearest.

How far is Ridee Viharaya from Colombo?

About 102 km in a straight line. Road journeys are longer, so check current travel times before you go.

What is near Ridee Viharaya?

Nearby places include Aluvihare Rock Temple (about 22 km away), Yapahuwa Rock Fortress (about 28 km away), Dambulla Golden Temple (about 33 km away), Dambulla Cave Temple (about 33 km away).

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