GALAPATHA RAJAMAHA VIHARAYA

Probably built in the ^12th century, destroyed by the Dutch in the ^16th century and subsequently rebuilt, this beautiful temple houses a 30 m tall reclining Buddha and magnificent paintings. Access to the temple is via a stone arch whose pillars feature splendid engravings from the Kandy period (1590-1830). The motifs on the pillars depict nari latha, a mythical Himalayan climbing plant which, when in flower, resembles a seductive young woman. This plant is said to have the power to disturb the Himalayan Rishis in their meditation. The pillars were originally in another Bentota temple, the Udakotuwa Rajamaha Vihara. The other valuable archaeological piece is called Galperanaya, a porous stone with the ability to filter water. Oval in shape and resembling a sink, the water is absorbed by the stone and emerges purified after 15 minutes. It is said to be unique in Sri Lanka. The temple's ancient dagoba, or stupa, is said to house the relics of a tooth belonging to Sri Anubuddha Maha Kassapa Arahat, one of Buddha's foremost disciples, making it an important place of devotion.

The two temples housing the Buddha and the paintings are often locked. You'll have to seek out the janitor and ask him to open the sanctuaries for you. It's well worth the effort. The place exudes an almost mystical sense of tranquility.