'Demetamal Vihare', Buththala, Sri Lanka.

In the war between Dutta Gamini and his brother Tissa, in the 2nd Century BC, Tissa was defeated at a place called 'Yudaganaawa' in Buththala. The defeated Tissa took refuge in 'Demetamal Vihare' close by. Dutta Gamini pursued his brother and knew that Tissa was there. He left his army outside and went to meet the Cheif Priest of the temple. The priest answered truthfully ' I do not see him', when Tissa was hiding under a seat. Gamini left the place out of respect for the 'Sangha'. Tissa was later smuggled out disguised as the dead body of  a priest. Later the chief priest brought amity and concord between the two brothers. This is part of Sri Lankan history and this is the 'Demetamal Vihare' referred to. It lies a few hundred yards off the Butthala - Moneragala road, a few Kms outside Butthala.

'Sithulpawwa', Sri Lanka.

This ancient site dating back to the 2nd Century BC is a mass of rock and trees. It has been used as a site of Buddhist meditation. The breezes from the ocean not far away give a tranquil atmosphere which owerwhelms one on a visit here. Click on the underlined web-link below to watch a video-clip of same:-

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9SR4zT6dP4

'Sankapala' - Entrance and stairways.

Sankapala, the Buddhist monastery complex dating back with historical records going back to the second century BC. This is a popular place of pilgrimage for Buddhists in present Sri Lanka.