If the idea of ​​a monastery built in the steep rock, sounds intriguing, try to pull in 3 km by road north of Matala, 20 km from Kandy to see Aluviharu. This unique group of monastic caves, picturesquely situated among the rocks, which are located high above the valley. Legend has it that the giant used three rocks as the basis for their pots, and the name Aluvihara (ash Monastery) refers to the ash from the cooking fire.

Aluvihara is one of the most important cultural sites in Sri Lanka. It is believed that the Buddhist doctrines were first written on the leaves of palm trees here in the 1st century BC, during the reign of King Vattagamini Abay. This entry Dhamma known as the "Tripitaka" and now it is the main guiding book for Theravadskogo Dhamma Buddhism. Two thousand years later, in 1848, the library of the monks was destroyed by British troops. The long process of recovery of the manuscript, and to this day holds the monks, scribes and craftsmen. For a small fee in the form of donations to the needs of the church, you can visit their workshop on writing on palm leaves.

In the first cave in which you find yourself, is the image of 10-meter reclining Buddha and impressive painting of lotus flowers on the ceiling. Another sphere is filled with cartoon-like paintings of hell: before deviate from the straight path to heaven, you will think twice after seeing the statue devils punishing sinners in the afterlife. One scene shows a sinner with an open skull and two demons, cut his brain.

Despite the historical significance Aluvihary, paintings and sculptures that can be seen in its cave temples, are modern.

Upstairs is a cave Buddhaghosa - zhidische Indian scientist who is supposed to have spent a few years here while working on the Tipitaka. Although historians argue that Buddhaghosa lived in Anuradhapura in the 6th century BC, there is no clear evidence of this. However, the cave walls are painted with scenes, which show how Buddhaghosa working on manuscripts.

Stairs lead to the top of the cliff, where you will find Dagobah (place for storing relics) and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding valleys.