Ridee viharaya is a cave complex with a forest cover that provided shade for meditative monks even at the beginning of Buddhist civilization in Sri Lanka. The presence of early Buddhist civilization at the Ridee Viharaya is confirmed by the pre-Brahmi inscriptions found in some of the caves. Hence, it has been a famous Buddhist Temple since ancient times going back 2nd century BC and historical records state that during the reign of King Dutugemunu, silver required to construct the Swarnamali Mahaseya, the largest pagoda in Sri Lanka, was extracted from one of the caves here. This legend is described in the Mahavamsa, the most important chronicle in Sri Lanka, as well as in many ancient documents.

At present, at the Ridee Vijaraya, You can find four caves with status, two ancient stupas, ancient ponds, a cave complex with forest ruins, and an ecological park called Pahangala.

The Ridee Viharaya is a melting pot of Sri Lanka Architecture, art, ancient writing, and Buddhist customs. It is also a soothing place where one can experience the beauty of the natural environment. Even today, the temple has all the facilities for those who want to meditate in a serene environment.