Isinbassagala Rajamaha Viharaya is a unique temple located on a rock. According to the legend, there are various ways in which this land got this unique name. It is also known as the “Isiwarun Bassa gala” due to the supernatural powers of the Isivars descending on this rock. It is believed that Isivarun Bassa gala later became Isinbassagala. This temple is located on a large rock plateau that is more than 530 feet high.
But it is not that difficult to climb this rocky plateau. As you climb the rocky plateau, you will come across a small statue house with a Thai Buddha statue. When you pass this statue and go further you will come across a stone staircase. This temple can be reached by climbing these stone steps. This temple was built during the time of Mahindagamanaya. This temple has the second dagoba built in Sri Lanka after Mahindagamana.
This temple is called Isinbassagala, Isipathanaramaya because the Isivars and the Arahants lived in this rock plateau from ancient times. Legend has it that Ven. Mihidu Thera first came here after his arrival in our country. It can also be described as a land full of archeological sites. From Medawachchiya on the Colombo-Jaffna road, turn left onto the Padavi Sri Pura road and you will see a magnificent white dagoba on a very high rocky plateau on the left.
