Destination
Site where PuranAppu’s Insurrection Was Dispersed
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Travel approximately 2 kms from Matale via Matale-Kandy (Warakamula Road) to this site, near Kohombiliwela Banyan Tree.
The Matale Insurrection took place in 1848, a truly ‘revolutionary’ year, as it marks many revolutions, uprisings and insurrections in many different parts of the world. Puran Appu led this uprising against the British Colonial Rule, and with the assent of all supporters, proclaimed himself as ‘Walisinghe, King of the Hill Country Kingdom’ at his coronation held in the DambuluViharaya on 28 July 1848.
At dawn on 29 July 1848, PuranAppu led his armies to capture Matale, while other leaders under him left with their troops to capture Hunnasgiriya and the coffee plantations in Laggala. Puran Appu, having conquered the Matale town, declared himself King of Matale for the first time.
However, owing to vulnerabilities from within, Puran Appu and the other leaders were captured by the British. Captain Lilee and the British army dispersed the Sinhala leaders at this site. A memorial as well as a commemorative hall in Puran Appu’s honor has since been erected at this site.
Dambulla Museum
This museum is located left to the Seema Malaka on the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple. It’s a archaeological attraction of great significance.
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