Warana Temple

What?
This is a historic Buddhist temple believed to have been built during the reign of King Devanampiyathissa. It features ancient cave temples and stupas spread across three levels.

Where?
It is located in the Gampaha district and approximately 34 km from Colombo.

When?
It can be visited all year long, though December to April offers the best weather for exploring the surrounding greenery.

Warana Temple is located in Warana village in Gampaha. According to historical records, the Warana Temple was built during King Dewanampiyathissa’s time, and King Walagamba renovated it in the 1st century AD. This temple is popular because of some inscriptions that were found here. According to those inscriptions, this temple was donated to Tissa Dhatta Thero, the brother of Majjhima Thero. The Tissa Dhatta Thero was supposed to be a student of Mahinda Thero.