Tissamaharama is a tranquil, quiet town on Sri Lanka’s southern coast. If you hear someone talk of ‘Tissa’ in relation to a place, they are referring to Tissamaharama. Hotels and resorts such as Kithala Resort have cropped up as the popularity of neighbouring Yala and Bundala National Parks have grown in recent times.
History of Tissamaharama
A lush land of exotic wilderness and glistening paddy fields Tissamaharama located in the north-central region of Sri Lanka is a nature lover’s paradise. Predominantly known as the gateway to the Yala National Park the city was founded by Prince Mahanaga in the 3rd century BC.
Tissamaharama Raja Maha Viharaya
The Raja Maha Viharaya – Temple – was constructed by King Kavantissa in the 2ndcentury BC. It is a very sacred site that is believed to have been blessed by the Lord Buddha himself who spent many days there in meditation together with 500 Arahat Monks. These monks are said to have all attained enlightenment.
Yatala Dagaba
The scenic locale of the Yatala Dagaba is found a few minutes from the man-made Tissa Wewa – tank – it is located within the ancient ruins of a monastery known as Galkanunmandiya. This too was constructed under the guidance of Prince Mahanaga in the 3rd century BC.
Sandagiri Dagaba
The Sandagiri or Santagiri built by Prince Mahanaga in the 3rd century BC is quite rightly the largest Buddhist monument in Tissa. It is an impressive 55 metres in height measuring a circumference of 165 metres and sits in the middle of a gorgeous paddy field.
Filled with wanderlust that seeks to explore distant shores and captivated by the colors and vibrancy of exotic cultures, Kanya Mae writes on the beautiful, exciting, and enchanting wonders of the world. She is a writer who not only has a passion for travel, but also has a background in fashion, art and media.
.jpg){kind=link}