Though Polonnaruwa (UNESCO world heritage site) is yet another tremendous place to travel, has increased the value of the tourism sites of Sri Lanka. The Gal Viharaya, rock temple located at Polonnaruwa in the north central province of Sri Lanka was originally built by King Parakramabahu 1 around the 12th century. The four Buddha images which have been carved into a huge granite stone are depicting seated figure, small seated figure, standing figure and a reclining figure. Perhaps you may have seen them through post cards related to Sri Lankan tourism. These images, influenced with Mahayana Buddhist influence seemed to be a serene and contemplation.
Hence the architect of the gal Viharaya has initiated to use the maximum possible area of the rock boulder with fabulous characteristic Sinhalese architectural and carving arts. The Novelist ‘Emerson’ records that Gal Viharaya was the only shrine in Sri Lanka built in the style of Ajantha and Ellora of India. There are four caves in detail Cave of Vijjadharas, Excavated cave, Cave of Standing image and Cave of reclining image. By the way, old brick ramparts have been fallen down. Obviously, there were own image houses for every image. While the first statue is a seated on a lotus of Buddha image and is a meditation pose. The rock behind the statue is embellished with carvings of ‘vimana’. The 15 feet high statue of Buddha is guarded by another two statues of Gods. It is said that the scenario is a vicinity of Buddha’s visit to heaven ‘Thusitha’ to preach his mother. In past, these were painted with gold and embedded with gems, on behalf of that today they have been stolen by treasure hunters. The third statue is a seated pose and arguably it is most interested in both local and foreign devotees and travelers. However, some believe that this is a statue of Ananda thero, while the Buddha’s reclining image beside on his passing away.
Eventually, you will find the 80 feet long reclining statue of Buddha. Make sure to see the inscription which reminds the effort of king Parakramabahu to unite Sangha. According to the ancient epic, ‘Culavamsa’, the temple was called as the Northern temple or Uttara Vihara in King’s time. Further, it can be highlighted as a remarkable Buddhist monastic architectural feature of Sri Lanka. Therefore travelers must visit the place instead of hustling o bustle destinations around Polonnaruwa.