Sankapala Raja Maha Viharaya is a beautiful old temple situated in Pallebedda Village, Ratnapura District. It lies on the edges of the Ratnapura – Embilipitiya main road near the 24th milepost. Also, this temple is located at the foot of picturesque hills, and its Stupa was built on a small rock.

As per folklore, Phussadeva, one of the ten great giants of King Dutugemunu resided in this Sankapala area. This is confirmed by the fact that Phussadeva’s name has been mentioned in the rock inscriptions. Phussadeva who played a prominent part in King Dutugemunu’s wars was well-versed in the art of war and blowing the conch shell. Hence, the emblem conch shell was used to identify him. Phussadeva built this Sankapala Viharaya. It is mentioned that later on in life he was ordained a monk and achieved the state of Rahath. However, owing to the evils of nature this abode had been later abandoned. After, this place was resurrected again and made a popular place of worship by Venerable Karathota Dharmarama during the Kandyan period.

Also, there can be found a Stupa which is believed to have buried the ashes of Arahant Phussadeva on a stone plateau about 2 km away from the temple, near the Rathnapura – Embilipitiya main road. It is known as Phussadeva Tomb.

The old three caves at the foot of the hills have been converted into Buddha viharas in the temple. Further, there can be seen ruins, art, and other constructions belonging to the Anuradhapura era, the Kandy era, and the recent era in the Sankapala temple.