It is believed that the history of Pidurangala Vihara goes back beyond to the first and second century BC.[1] From those days Pidurangala was used as a Buddhist monastery but became a prominent place during the reign of King Kashyapa (473 - 495 AC).

According to ancient chronicles, Prince Kashyapa had killed his father King Dhatusena and fled to Sigiriya to find out a more secure place to prevent retaliation attacks from his half-brother, Mugalan. With the arrival of King Kashyapa, the Bhikkus who were meditated there were requested move to the nearby Pidurangala.[2] In a sort of compensation, King Kashyapa refurbished the temple and made it a prominent place.[1]