Beligala Raja Maha Viharaya

Beligala Raja Maha Viharaya is located about 4 km along a side road entering the Pallekanda village from the main Ratnapura-Balangoda road, near the Ellepola Maha Vidyalaya. This beautiful temple is situated beneath a rock approximately 40 feet high. A historic story explains the origin of its name. During the reign of King Valgamba, the temple was considered a hidden place of the king. During a famine in the king's time, it is said that he brought food from nearby wells for sustenance. Even today, thorny beli plants are found around the temple grounds. After the war ended, the king reportedly sanctified the temple, turning it into a consecrated religious site. Among the rock temples of Sabaragamuwa, this temple holds a special significance.