Monday, November 2, 2026

Kathaluwa Ranwella Temple - I

Kathaluwa Ranwella and Giniwella temples are twin temples in adjoining sites. IT appears to be that they have started as a single temple in 1820s and were later split due to sectorial disputes. Giniwella temple is today known as Nawamuni Vihara. Ranwella temple housed the first (or one of the earliest) Sinhala press in Sri Lanka ans published the first (or one of the earliest) Sinahala news paper / news letter called "Lankalokaya". The British made letter press was a donation by the then king of Thailand.

Octagonal Image House - This is an unusual form for a Buddhist temple images house in Sri Lanka.



Priests' residence

Press - The library block that housed the press caught fire (some suspected it was an arson) some time back. This plaque commemorate the refurbishment work done with the contributions from the Thai embassy.


Original press after refurbishments


"Lankalokaya" news paper

It appears to be that following elements are shared by the two temples. This area can be accessed from both temples. Though there are gated walls, the gates are open. 

Stupa - It is interesting to see that 'Thorana' structure state this as a 'Mausoleum' in English. 

Bo tree ('Bodhigara')






Another buildign which we did not visit

Location 8 -  Ranwella Temple,Kathaluwa

Photos - Author

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