Nestled among massive, dramatic boulder formations just north of Matale, the Aluvihare Rock Temple holds an unparalleled place in global Buddhist history. It was in these very stone caves during the 1st century BC that the Tripitaka (the sacred Buddhist scriptures) was first written down on Ola palm leaves, preserving the teachings of the Buddha in text after centuries of oral tradition. Travelers can explore a maze of natural rock caves filled with vibrant Kandyan-era frescoes, unique sculptures, and a serene reclining Buddha, making it a profoundly historic and atmospheric stop.