University of Kelaniya
Welcome to the Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology (PGIAR), Sri Lanka’s premier centre for postgraduate education and research in archaeology and heritage management. We are dedicated to advancing knowledge of the past through innovative research, interdisciplinary learning, and the protection of the nation’s rich cultural heritage.
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Postgraduate Diploma
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Master of Arts
76
Msc in Archaeology
38
PhD
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Non Degree
61
Certificate in Epigraphy
Dr. Arjuna Thantilage has been Appointed as the Director of Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology in Sri Lanka
Dr. Arjuna Thantilage has been appointed as the new Director of the Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology (PGIAR), University of Kelaniya in Sri Lanka, effective from January 13th, 2026. . His appointment brings experienced academic leadership to the Institute, with expectations of further strengthening postgraduate education, research, and heritage-related initiatives.
The PGIAR community has extended its congratulations to Dr. Thantilage and wishes him success in guiding the Institute toward continued growth and excellence.
While welcoming our new Director, we express our deep gratitude and respect to Senior Professor P.A. Paranagama (former Acting Director). Thank you for your visionary leadership and the incredible milestones achieved during your tenure.
As we welcome the New Year, the Director and the entire team of the Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology (PGIAR) extend our warmest wishes to all.
May the year ahead bring renewed hope, good health, and meaningful progress in your academic and professional pursuits. We look forward to another year of learning, discovery, and collaboration as we continue to preserve, study, and celebrate our shared archaeological heritage.
Wishing you a peaceful, prosperous, and inspiring New Year.
Director and TeamThe Diploma Certificate Convocation for the 2023/2024 batch of the Diploma in Archaeology and Cultural Tourism , conducted by the Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology, was held on 25th April 2025 at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), Colombo. This diploma program, specifically designed for professionals in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry—particularly tourist guides—aimed to equip participants with formal and up-to-date knowledge on Sri Lankan culture
The Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology (PGIAR), University of Kelaniya, proudly announces that Ven. Aludeniye Subodhi Thero (PD1213148) of Postgraduate Diploma in Archaeology in Archaeology has been awarded five prestigious gold medals of · Senaka Bandaranayake Gold medal for Environmental Archaeology · Senarath Paranavithana Gold medal for Epigraphy and Numismatics · Sir Alexander Cunningham Gold medal for Archaeological research thought (Research Colloquium) · Siran Deraniyagala Gold Medal