Ridi Viharaya (Silver Temple)
North Western Province
About Ridi Viharaya (Silver Temple)
Ridi Viharaya - the Silver Temple - owes its name to the vein of silver ore discovered here in the 2nd century BC, which King Dutugemunu used to finance his monumental Ruwanwelisaya stupa at Anuradhapura; the grateful king founded this rock monastery at the mine. The temple that grew over two thousand years is a treasure-box of oddities: a gilded seated Buddha in the main cave presiding over shrines whose altar step is inlaid, improbably, with blue-and-white Dutch delft tiles depicting Biblical scenes - a gift, tradition says, from a Dutch consignment that found its way inland. Around it are Kandyan-era murals, a hilltop stupa in the unusual vatadage style, inscriptions from many reigns, and resident troops of macaques patrolling frangipani terraces. Half an hour from Kurunegala among coconut and rock country, it remains a working village temple with barely a tourist in sight.
Top Activities
- ✓Main cave shrine and golden Buddha
- ✓The famous Dutch-tile altar step
- ✓Kandyan murals and inscriptions
- ✓Hilltop stupa climb
- ✓Combine with Kurunegala and Yapahuwa
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Ask the monk to show the Dutch tiles - easy to miss in the shrine's low light.
A small donation keeps this working temple welcoming visitors.
Pair with Yapahuwa for a fine off-circuit heritage day.
Quick Info
Best Time
Year-round
Weather
Warm; cave shrines stay cool inside.
Estimated Daily Budget
7.5972°N, 80.4736°E
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