Restored in 1894 while maintaining its original shape, this stupa is attributed to King Mahanaga. However, Henry Parker believes it was constructed by King Dutugemunu.
In 1882, Governor Robert Longden granted the temple land to Rev. Tangalle Sri Jinaratana, who initiated the restoration of the stupa and the construction of temple buildings. This restoration likely destroyed much of the archaeological evidence.
Within the temple grounds, there is a large stone pillar known as ‘Eth Bendi Gala,' or the pillar where the elephant was tethered. Legend has it that King Dutugemunu tethered his famous elephant, Kadol, to this pillar. The pillar is indeed large and strong enough to restrain an elephant.
Surrounding the temple are many stone pillar bases and other architectural remnants of buildings. Similar to Yatala, Manik Vehera is surrounded by clusters of pillars and the ruins of brick walls. Many of these ruins are on privately owned lands, and in some places, the pillars have been repurposed for construction, washing clothes, or as components of bridges and doorsteps.
