Muhudu Maha Vihara is a temple that is situated in Pottuvil bordering the ocean in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. Muslims dominate the area of Pottuvil, and there are a handful of other nationalities living in the precincts of Pottuvil.
Muhudu Maha Vihara is said to have been constructed by King Kaventissa, 2000 years ago and had acreage of 264 acres during the rule of the British in Sri Lanka. But when it was gazette in 1965, this acreage had reduced to 35 acres, where almost 200 acres had been taken by force by Muslims in the area. With the onslaught of the ethnic war Sinhalese population was driven away from this area. Hence when the war ended, there was very little left in acreage for the Muhudu Mama Vihara temple.
The ruins and relics of ancient stupas, Seema Malaka, Avasa Geya and other statues are still visible in this temple. Among the important ruins at this temple are one of Lord Buddha and two statues of ancient Kings who ruled during that time. This temple premises is the landmark which depicts the arrival of Vihara Maha Devi, daughter of King Kelanitissa. Legend says that Vihara Maha Devi was cast to sea in a golden vessel, in a bid to appease the Gods over an issue her father was involved in. However, she did not drown and landed on the shores of Muhudu Maha Vihara. She then let King Kavantissa and became his consort of the Ruhunu Kingdom.
For those travelling to this area, Arugambay lies close to the Muhudu Maha Vihara. However, the road to the Vihara is extremely narrow and it is with great difficulty that even two cars can cross each other.
Sri Lanka is a country of extreme historical lineage as most of the Kings of yore took a great deal of interest in constructing beautiful buildings that are still seen as relics and artifacts in the areas of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura.
