Hidden deep within the dry plains of Anamaduwa lies one of Sri Lanka’s most fascinating historical
treasures — the Thonigala Rock Inscription.
Carved into a massive granite cliff over 2,000 years ago, this ancient Brahmi script tells stories of Sri
Lanka’s early kings, irrigation systems, and Buddhist heritage. Though less crowded than famous sites
like Anuradhapura or Polonnaruwa, Thonigala offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore a
peaceful archaeological gem surrounded by nature.
A Glimpse into History:
The Thonigala Rock Inscription dates back to the reign of King Mahaculi Mahatissa (1st century BCE), the
son of King Kutakannatissa of Anuradhapura.
The inscriptions are written in ancient Brahmi script, etched across two massive rock surfaces measuring
over 15 meters in length and 6 meters in height — making it one of the largest rock inscriptions in Sri
Lanka.
These lines record the donation of nearby irrigation tanks and land to Buddhist monasteries, showcasing
the advanced hydraulic civilization of early Sri Lanka and the close connection between Buddhism,
agriculture, and royal patronage.
- The Ancient Inscriptions 📜: View the beautifully carved Brahmi letters ✍️ — remarkably well-preserved ✨ despite being over two millennia old 🗿🕰️
- Rock Formations ⛰️: Explore the giant rock surfaces 🪨, natural caves 🏞️, and crevices around the site 🔎✅
- Historical Interpretation Boards 💡: Read translations 🌍 and explanations 🧑🏫 about the meaning of the inscriptions 📜✍️
- Nature Surroundings 🌳: Enjoy a peaceful walk 🚶♀️ among dry-zone trees 🍃, birds 🐦, and the occasional monkey family 🐒💚
- Nearby Attractions 🗺️: Combine your visit with Paramakanda Raja Maha Vihara 🙏 (just 7 km away 🧭) or Malwila Ruins 🏛️ for a complete heritage experience ✅🚗
- From Colombo: Around 3.5–4 hours ⏱️ via Negombo → Chilaw → Anamaduwa route 🛣️🚗💨
- From Puttalam: 1 hour drive ⏳ (approx. 50 km) 🚘🧭
- By Bus 🚌: Take a bus to Anamaduwa town 🚏; tuk-tuks 🛺 are available to Thonigala 📍✅
- By Car 🚘: Small parking area 🅿️ near the entrance 🚪, followed by a short 10-minute walk 🚶♀️ to the rock 🪨👍
- Carry water 💧, sunscreen 🧴, and a hat 👒 — there’s little shade 🚫🌳 at midday 🥵☀️
- Wear comfortable shoes 👟 — a short climb ⛰️ is required 💪🚶♀️
- Bring a camera 📷 or phone 📱 for macro shots 🔎 of the inscriptions 📜✨
- Avoid touching 🚫✋ or tracing the carvings ✍️ — they are fragile heritage artifacts 🗿⚠️
- Combine your visit 🗺️ with Paramakanda Temple 🙏 for a panoramic view 👀 of the surrounding plains 🏞️🧭
Morning Heritage Plan:
- 6:30 AM ⏰ – Depart from Chilaw 🚗 or Puttalam 🗺️💨
- 8:00 AM 🗿 – Arrive at Thonigala Rock Inscription 📜; explore the site 🔎 and learn about its history 💡✅
- 9:30 AM 🙏 – Visit Paramakanda Raja Maha Vihara 🔔 nearby 🧭🏛️
- 11:00 AM ☕ – Enjoy breakfast 🥚 or tea 🍵 in Anamaduwa town 🍽️😋
- 12:00 PM 🧭 – Continue towards Wilpattu 🐘 or Puttalam Lagoon 🏞️ for afternoon nature travel 🌳🚗
