Galpoththawela wala Temple

Galpoththawela Raja Maha Viharaya, also known as Sri Pada Vihara, is a historic Buddhist temple located in the village of Kuttapitiya in the Pelmadulla area of Ratnapura District, Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka. It was founded by King Keerthi Sri Rajasingha and has since become an important religious site for the region. The temple sits in a scenic rural setting, contributing both spiritual and cultural value to the local community.

The temple houses sacred relics and artifacts, most notably the statue of the Samana god and other religious items originally kept at the Palabaddala temple, which were moved here in 1934 due to security concerns. The architecture is typical of Sri Lankan Buddhist temples in terms of its layout, image housings, and worship spaces. Surrounding the temple are forested hills and the greenery of the Ratnapura District, which enhance its peaceful ambiance.

Visitors to Galpoththawela Raja Maha Viharaya can engage in worship, meditation, and observing Buddhist rituals. The temple is a pilgrimage destination during the off-season of Sri Pada worship when sacred items are displayed. The site provides a contemplative setting for both devotees and travelers interested in Sri Lankan religious traditions and heritage.

The temple is accessible year-round via Vidyala Mawatha road from Pelmadulla, with routes from Colombo or Embilipitiya. The best times to visit are during drier months when travel is easier and the surroundings are more pleasant. Though no heavy infrastructure is required for access, some walking is involved once arriving at nearby roads.