Historical background
Built in the 14th century by King Vikramabahu III, this devalaya is dedicated to the deity Kataragama. Famed for its 514 intricately carved wooden pillars depicting dancers, swans, wrestlers and mythical creatures.
Religious significance
Recognised by UNESCO as one of the finest examples of Sinhalese wood carving anywhere in the world.
Architecture
Devalaya built c. 1370 during the reign of King Vikramabahu III of Gampola. Timber-and-stone shrine dedicated to Kataragama Deviyo, famous for over 500 carved wooden pillars in the Hevisi Mandapaya (Drummers' Hall) and the celebrated Madol Kurupawa roof joint — a masterpiece of joinery.
Historical timeline
- c. 1370 CEBuilt under King Vikramabahu III.
- 18th centuryRestored by King Rajadhi Rajasinghe of Kandy.
- 20th centuryRecognised as a national heritage monument.
Cultural importance
Protected archaeological monument and living devalaya. Annual perahera links the shrine into the Kandy Esala festival network.
Visitor experience
Stand inside the Drummers' Hall (Hevisi Mandapaya) and let the eye trace each pillar — no two carvings are identical.
Things to do
- ✦Tour the carved wooden pillars
- ✦Visit on a poya for the local puja
- ✦Combine with the Three Temples Loop
Visitor information
Interesting facts
- ✦More than 500 carved wooden motifs decorate the shrine.
- ✦Carvings include dancers, musicians, wrestlers, mythical creatures, elephants, swans, floral scrolls, and geometric patterns.
- ✦The Madol Kurupawa roof joint is considered a masterpiece of traditional Sri Lankan timber engineering.
- ✦Regarded as one of the finest surviving examples of Gampola-period architecture.
- ✦Many carved timber elements are believed to have originated from royal buildings of the Gampola Kingdom.
