Archeotrails

Rajagala, also known as Rassaagala, is a remarkable archeological site located in the Ampara district of Sri Lanka. This ancient Buddhist monastery, nestled amidst a serene forested landscape, dates back over 2,000 years to the early Anuradhapura period. It is renowned for its historical, cultural, and religious significance, attracting scholars, pilgrims, and visitors alike. The site encompasses a sprawling complex of ruins spread over a rocky hill. It includes stupas, Buddha statues, meditation caves, stone inscriptions, and monastic buildings, reflecting the architectural and spiritual practices of early Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The inscriptions found here, written in Brahmi and early Sinhala scripts, provide invaluable insights into the island’s history and the lives of Buddhist monks who inhabited the monastery. Rajagala is believed to have been a secluded meditation retreat for monks, fostering a peaceful and introspective environment. Its name, which translates to Monarch’s Rock, is linked to legends that suggest royal connections to the monastery’s establishment. Today, Rajagala is a protected archeological reserve and a popular destination for those interested in history and Buddhism. The site’s natural beauty, combined with its spiritual and historical richness, makes it an unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s ancient past.