There is a considerable distance from Gampola to the western coast. It was difficult for the armies to travel. Therefore Alagakkonara decided to build a fortress not far from the coast, operate from there and chase the enemy. He was on the look out for a suitable place for this purpose. He decided on a spot, that was a safe place as it was marshy land surrounded by the Diyawanna Oya, on three sides.

The birth centenary of one of Sri Lanka's great sons, Angarika Dharmapala was celebrated 44 years ago – on September 17, 1964. He was born at a time when Buddhists with renewed interest and energy following the Buddhist – Christian controversies, were organizing themselves to preserve their religious heritage.