Renovated building, Demetamal Vihare, Butthala,Sri Lanka.

Scenes outside the historic 'Demetamal Vihare', Buththala, Sri Lanka.

'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.

Replicas of 'number plates' of cars nailed to trees, Sella Katharagama, Sri Lanka.

Replicas of number plates of cars are nailed to this group of trees as a vow to prevent accidents to the vehicles concerned.

'Vadihitikandha' - 'Kathiramalai' and a paddy field at its base.

The holy hill at dawn.

Video:-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcJRSDC1uSI

The Dagoba, Kirivihare, Katharagama, Sri Lanka.

Dating back to the Second Century BC, this Dagoba was in ruins and was renovated over the last fifty years. It stands tall and beautiful especially on a full-moon - 'Poya' night.

'Katharagama' - 'Kathirkaamam' - The temple to 'Lord Skanda', Sri Lanka