Asgiriya Raja Maha Vihara (අස්ගිරිය රජ මහා විහාරය) is an ancient cave temple situated in the Gampaha District, Sri Lanka. The temple is located on top of a hillock along the Gampaha - Minuwangoda road, just away from Gampaha town. It has been formally recognized by the government as an archaeological site in Sri Lanka. Asgiriya's name is said to have originated after the loss of Prince Uttiya's horse (brother of King Kelanitissa) in this area. Its history is believed to date back to the reign of King Valagamba (89-77 BC). King Valagamba, who fled from Anuradhapura after invasions from South India, sought refuge in this historical place. The cave temple, constructed with wattle and daub, features drip ledges. Inside the image house, there's a Samadhi Buddha statue from the Kandyan period. The canopy of the cave is adorned with lotus flowers and other floral designs. A footprint of Buddha is etched into the rock surface, and a stupa stands nearby.
The Benthara River also known as the Benthota Ganga is an exciting landmark which divide the two provinces. The boat rides are the most famous where as fresh breeze with a hint of saltiness will sweep through the hair as you ride through the wilderness. The fascinating mangroves are the magical element of the river. The area is also popular for water sports. The name of the town Benthara is derived from a mythical story which claims a demon named 'Bem' ruled the tota or river bank.
The destinations in Sri Lanka always have their own stories, oftentimes attributing to the legends holds dear by the locals in honor of rulers, gods or any other respectable ancient figures. Makeli Ella is the same holding the belief of people who tells a legend of Vidiyabandara, a ruler of the region ascending as a deity named Makeli. Thus the name Makeli came to be in identifying the nearby waterfall. The waterfallis most popular amongst the domestic tourists and explorers when the development of roadways commenced. Oftentimes the waterfall and its immediate area is subjects to the rituals, religious events and many events that culture of the area seemed appropriate. This valuable water source located near the Lathpandura, Agalawatta in Kaluthara District. Beside the amazing views and activities, the relatively isolation has the perfect opportunity to house the bio-sensitive area. The Flora and fauna of the area are the most eye-catching and always monitored to ensure the perseverance of the endangered species.
Nawagamuwa Pattini Devalaya is a historic temple situated in Nawagamuwa, Colombo District, Sri Lanka. The Archaeological Department has declared the Devalaya as a protected monument due to its importance in historical, architectural, and anthropological facets. It is a Buddhist temple primarily dedicated to all the gods. According to legend, King Gajabahu I (114−136) brought the ‘Pattini anklet’ from India after a victorious return with 12,000 prisoners. He built the Devalaya at the spot where he rested during his return to Anuradhapura. Another version suggests that Goddess Pattini arrived from India with 12,000 devotees from 16 castes and settled in this area. Some attribute the temple's origin to Neelaperumal Pandaram, who came from Kerala. Verifiable historical evidence about the Devalaya emerged during the Kotte period. Excavations have revealed building materials, wells, Dutch coins, and iron implements from the Middle Ages. Notable events occurred during the Kotte Period, including the inauguration of Hewagam Korale by King Rajasinha I and King Mayadunne's vow before going to war with the Portuguese in Colombo Fort.
