Sri Sankapala Raja Maha Viharaya stands majestically on a rocky mountain as ample evidence to prove that this temple has been blessed by the saintly monks who spent their time in peaceful meditation.

Situated in the Ratnapura district belonging to the Atakalan Korale Thambagamu Pattu Pallebedda Village the Sankapala Raja Maha Viharaya lies in the outskirts of Ratnapura – Hambantota main road near the 24th milepost.

This temple consists of natural dens, caves, as well as recently built shrines and buildings. The history of this temple traces back to the time of B.C. According to the legendary accounts, there had been ten giants in king Dutugemunu's troops. Giant Pussadeva was one of them whose duty was to inform the king's battle victories to the subjects, by blowing a conch shell.

Later, he had built this great sacred place and become a Buddhist monk. Having won the Vijithapura war this area had been offered to Pussadeva by king Dutugemunu, for taking the priority in the war.