The Hideaway - Varana Temple one of the oldest temples around in Sri Lanka

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Picturesquely situated across a paddy field atop a rocky outcrop, Varana’s history dates back to around 2300 years. King Devanampiyatissa is said to have constructed this 3-tiered or ‘malu’ which was renovated by King Valagamba.

This complex has 41 images of lord Buddha, within the 12 caves together with cave paintings that date back to 600 years. Local material used for painting were herbs, roots, flowers and minerals. The pahala maluwa has 2 images while the meda viharaya has 32 images with the uda maluwa having the balance 7 images.

Sel lipi or cave inscription known as ‘Asoka Aksara’ or Brahmin script has been translated to “The gift of Lord Tissadatta, brother of Lord Majjhimi”. These are said to be from the early Anuradhapura era while the images have resemblance of the Polonnaruwa period. The Dadoba is constructed besides a rocky shelter that does not spoil its visibility from the surrounding countryside.

Today the most venerable Dompe Punyananda Na Himi who is also the Seyana Hapitigama Aluthkuru Koralatre` Pradhana Adhikarana Sanganayaka is the chief priest of Varana. From 1962 he is the 11th generation of priests at Varana. Vesak is the most celebrated festival here with the best time to visit Varana is between 4 to 6 pm on weekdays.