In the midst of the deep jungles of Kandalama in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, lies Kaludiya Pokuna (black-water hole) archaeological site, one of Sri Lanka’s most evocative yet least-visited places of historic importance.
Whilst the place has got its name due to the location of a natural pond in the vicinity which consists of dark colored water, it is a forest monastery dating back to the 2nd to 6th centuries AD which had been known as the Dakkina Giri Vihara at the time of the Anuradhapura era. Like with other forest monasteries of the period, it had been meant for the ascetic monks who sought isolation from bustling urban centers which facilitates meditating in the rock caves, along meditation paths and performing rituals.
Archaeological excavations have uncovered the remains of a stupa, the foundations of an uposathaghara (ordination hall), and several stone-paved walkways amidst many caves carved with drip-ledges to divert rainwater. These caves had been the places of dwelling of the monks who had occupied this monastery meditating amidst the rhythms of nature in the serene jungles. There are many stone pillars and also abandoned stone sculptures found scattered at this location which need to be put together and carefully restored to bring back the past glory.
What makes Kaludiya Pokuna particularly significant are the stone inscriptions with “Brahmi Letters” depicted across its caves and slabs. These inscriptions preserve the names of donors, the monastic codes of conduct, and the patronage of kings. The very first stone inscription found in Sri Lanka that provides information related to the exact time of its origination is found at this site which is a stone inscription believed to have been made during the reign of King Sena II (853-857 AD).
Description of the temple
Cave
Several inscriptions found at Kaludiya Pokuna resembles the manner in which different kings had given due consideration to forest monasteries as essential pillars of faith, deserving royal patronage. These monarchs had endowed the site with resources, guaranteed its autonomy, and reinforced the disciplinary codes of its monks.
Since the ‘Kaludiya Pokuna’ site extends over 100 acres of jungle land, covering many ruins of archaeological importance, there is much potential to carry out further archaeological excavations to unearth the history that remains to be discovered in this area.
In view of its location within pristine jungles Kaludiya Pokuna cannot be considered merely a historic site as it is also a treasure trove of ecological value. The surrounding forest contains many endemic flora and fauna of the North Central Province of Sri Lanka and visitors can indulge in a quiet, cooling and unique environment which provides memorable soul-searching experience with a pleasing encounter with mother nature.
The significance of Kaludiya Pokuna stands strong today as a topic across centuries, between monarchs and monks, stone and forest and finally between past and the present. For those who pause by its black-water hole, the echoes of both power and piety still remains strong.
‘Kaludiya Pokuna’ forest situated in close proximity to the Dambulla town and several star class hotels within the cultural triangle, is an important place that should be restored and developed as an archaeological as well as ecological site promoting eco-tourism.
With a historical value spanning several centuries, Kaludiya Pokuna Should be elevated to a place of significance, where travellers locally and globally would be excited to visit and experience the great Sri Lankan heritage.
(The writer is an Attorney-at-Law and is the Senior Vice President – Head of Services of Hatton National Bank PLC)
By Indrajith Senadhira 
from The Island https://ift.tt/eIxXOYp
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