Watadage

This is an architectural structure, dating back to the era of king Parakaramabahu I.
This structure is built with the primary intention of creating a protective shield for the worshipers and for the stupas to help the worshipers to continue their prayers and religious observances without any disturbances from the natural causes such as extreme sunlight and rain. It also protected the stupas from damages caused due to the adverse weather conditions respectively.

The watadage was built with interacts details to carvings. Each of the pillars of the have intricate carvings that are specific to the era of the kingdom.

Generally, the concept of Watadaageya is a prominent and unique feature to the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa era, probably because of the heat from the sun. As many of these stupas are built on top of a rock base, with the intense sun rays directly falling on to the rock base leaves it impossible for the devotees to engage in their prayers.

Meanwhile, it should also be noted that these stupas and sculptures, where there are vatadageyas are relatively small in comparison with the other stupas and statues. The best time to visit this destination will be from May to July.