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Temples
Sri Lanka is a land of rich spiritual heritage, where ancient temples stand as testaments to centuries of history, culture, and devotion. From the golden roof of the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy to the serene cave temples of Dambulla, Sri Lanka's temples are not just architectural wonders but also places of profound reverence. Surrounded by lush landscapes and steeped in Buddhist tradition, the top 10 temples in Sri Lanka offer a captivating journey into the heart of the island’s spiritual and cultural soul. Whether you’re seeking tranquility, history, or simply the beauty of sacred sites, these temples will leave you with memories of a truly unique experience.
1. Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) – Kandy
Located in Kandy, this is one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist sites. The Temple of the Tooth houses the relic of the Buddha’s tooth, a sacred object that has been venerated for centuries. The temple, situated within the Royal Palace Complex, is an exquisite example of traditional Sri Lankan architecture. The temple becomes a center of major celebrations during the Esala Perahera, a grand festival held annually.
2. Ruwanwelisaya – Anuradhapura
The Ruwanwelisaya is one of the oldest and most significant stupas in Sri Lanka, located in the ancient city of Anuradhapura. This massive stupa, built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE, is an architectural masterpiece. It is believed to house relics of the Buddha and is a site of profound reverence. The stupa’s grandeur and historical significance make it a key stop on any pilgrimage route in Sri Lanka.
3. Gangaramaya Temple – Colombo
Located in Colombo, the Gangaramaya Temple is a vibrant Buddhist temple that combines modern and traditional architectural styles. It is famous for its Buddhist museum, which houses a wide range of artifacts, sculptures, and relics from Sri Lanka’s Buddhist history. The temple also features a beautiful lotus pond and is an active center for meditation and worship.
4. Mihintale – Anuradhapura
Mihintale is a sacred mountain and one of Sri Lanka's most important historical sites, known as the place where Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka by Mahinda, an emissary of Emperor Ashoka of India. At the top of the mountain, visitors can explore the ancient ruins of temples, stupas, and monastic buildings. The Mihintale Rock, where Mahinda met King Devanampiyatissa, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
5. Dambulla Cave Temple – Dambulla
The Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a complex of five caves filled with Buddhist statues and paintings that date back over 2,000 years. Located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, the temple is perched on a hill and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The caves are home to some of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist frescoes and images of the Buddha.
6. Watadage – Polonnaruwa
The Watadage is an ancient circular temple located in the Polonnaruwa archaeological site. It is notable for its architectural design, with a stone circular structure surrounding a central stupa. The stone pillars and stone carvings reflect the incredible craftsmanship of the time. Polonnaruwa itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Watadage is a must-see among the ruins of this ancient capital.
7. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara – Kelaniya
Located just outside Colombo, Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is a historically significant temple where it is believed that the Buddha visited during his third trip to Sri Lanka. The temple is known for its beautiful murals, which depict scenes from the life of the Buddha. The stupa and Buddha statues within the temple are also major points of interest. This is an active place of worship, and visitors are often able to witness local rituals and ceremonies.
8. Seema Malaka – Colombo
The Seema Malaka is a beautiful Buddhist temple located on the Beira Lake in Colombo. Designed by architect Geoffrey Bawa, this temple is known for its stunning design and serene setting on the lake. The temple’s modern, open-air structure features wooden decks and boat-shaped pavilions. It’s an ideal spot for peaceful meditation and reflection, with the lake adding to its tranquility.
9. Kirinde Viharaya – Kirinda
Located in the coastal town of Kirinda, this temple is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Indian Ocean. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea, Kiri Amma, and has a stunning location that combines the beauty of the ocean with spiritual significance. The temple offers panoramic views of the coastline, and it is a great place to witness the merging of nature and devotion.
10. Buduruwagala – Wellawaya
The Buduruwagala Temple is located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka and is famous for its ancient rock carvings and statues. The main attraction is the large seated Buddha statue carved into the rock face, measuring over 15 meters in height. The temple also contains smaller statues representing various deities and figures from Buddhist mythology. It’s a peaceful and somewhat secluded temple, making it a hidden gem for those exploring the island.