Mulkirigala Rock Temple

The Mulkirigala Rock Temple (Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara) is an ancient Buddhist cave temple complex located near Tangalle in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province.

Often nicknamed “Little Sigiriya” due to its commanding height and series of stepped terraces, it offers a fascinating journey through centuries of Buddhist art and architecture.

Key Features

• Location: Situated on a 205-meter (673 ft) high natural granite rock in the Hambantota district, about 17 km north of Tangalle.
• Historical Significance: Dating back to the 3rd century BC (founded by King Saddhatissa), it is one of the oldest monasteries in Sri Lanka. Historical records suggest it was one of the 32 temples to receive a sapling from the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura.
• The Ascent: The complex is spread across five distinct terraced levels, connected by stone-cut steps, culminating in a summit with a dagoba (stupa) and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The terraces feature multiple cave temples, a Bo-tree (Bodhi) compound, and the final stupa at the summit.
• Art and Architecture: The temple’s seven cave shrines house a remarkable collection of art, statues, and murals, with much of the current ornamentation dating from the Kandyan Era (18th century).
  • Statues: Features large reclining Buddha statues, including one that is 14 meters long and is said to depict the Buddha in the state of Parinirvana (passing into Nirvana).
  • Murals: Vibrant frescoes depict episodes from the life of the Buddha (Jataka stories) and scenes of Buddhist cosmology.
• Historical Curiosity: The Dutch colonial rulers in the 18th century mistakenly called the rock “Adam’s Berg,” believing it to be the location of the tombs of Adam and Eve.

Visiting Tips

• Attire: As a living place of worship, visitors should dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered).
• Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat, as the climb involves several hundred steps.
• Local Name: It is sometimes called Punchi Seegiriya (Little Sigiriya).