history of Gampala

Ancient History

In the 13th century, during the reign of King Parakramabahu II, Princess Buvanekabahu Raja Tumana from the Kotte kingdom arrived in the region. At that time, Gampola, once a capital, was ruled by King Buvenekabahu. Princess Buvanekabahu took over leadership at the age of 29 and transformed Kotte into a significant city.

In the western part of Anuradhapura, within the Dighambara kingdom, lived the revered Buddhist monk Gamani Satipandu in the village of Gampola. Gampola is notable for landmarks such as the Lankatilaka Vihara, Ambekka Dewalaya, and Gadaladeniya Vihara. Gamani Satipandu is especially known for inscribing the first Sinhala inscriptions on the Mahiyangana stupa.

King Parakrama Bahu IV also had strong ties to Gampola, and the city flourished under his reign. These historical landmarks underscore Gampola’s religious, literary, and royal heritage.

Historical Background of Gampola Town

Gampola was officially recognized as a royal city in 1341. The name derives from its location near the Mahaweli River — originally from 'Ganga + Sri + Pura' forming 'Gangasiripura,' later evolving to 'Ganga + Pala' as 'Gampola.'

King Bhuvanekabahu IV, the first ruler of the Gampola Kingdom, selected Sinhapitiya (then known as Godagama) for his palace. The earliest work in Sinhala Sandesha literature, the 'Mayura Sandesha' by poet Kaviswara, was created during this era and praises the Gampola royal palace.

Kingdom of Gampola

Beginning and End	Capital City	Common Language
AD 1345–AD 1406	Gampola	Sinhala

Gampola Kingdom Kings and Their Reigns

King	Reign Period
The Fifth Parakramabahu	AD 1345–1359
The Third Vikramabahu	AD 1357–1373
The Fifth Buwanekabahu	AD 1373–1406