Here’s a guide to Sri Lanka’s rich heritage of historical temples, perfect for those on a spiritual or cultural pilgrimage. These temples reflect centuries of Buddhist and Hindu traditions, showcasing the island’s religious diversity and ancient architectural wonders.
1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – Kandy
One of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy houses a tooth relic of the Buddha. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this temple draws thousands of pilgrims and is especially lively during the Esala Perahera festival.
- Highlights: Golden roof, intricate wood carvings, and the museum with relics from ancient Sri Lanka.
- Location: Kandy, Central Province
2. Dambulla Cave Temple – Dambulla
Also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, this site is a complex of five caves adorned with statues, murals, and frescoes of Buddha. The temple dates back over 2,000 years and is another UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Highlights: Over 150 statues of Buddha, cave murals, and stunning views of the surrounding plains.
- Location: Dambulla, Central Province
3. Ruwanwelisaya Stupa – Anuradhapura
Built by King Dutugemunu in 140 B.C., Ruwanwelisaya is one of Sri Lanka’s most important stupas. Known for its large, white dome, it is considered a symbol of Buddhist unity and faith.
- Highlights: Ancient relics, massive white stupa, and nearby temples that also carry historical significance.
- Location: Anuradhapura, North Central Province
4. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi – Anuradhapura
The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred fig tree grown from a branch of the original Bodhi Tree in India under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Planted over 2,000 years ago, it is one of the oldest living trees documented by humans.
- Highlights: Historic Bodhi tree, annual ceremonies, and surrounding stupas and relic sites.
- Location: Anuradhapura, North Central Province
5. Kataragama Temple – Kataragama
A unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions, Kataragama Temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Skanda (Murugan) but is also visited by Buddhists and indigenous communities. The temple complex holds religious significance across faiths and is central to the Esala Festival in July/August.
- Highlights: Colorful annual pilgrimage, sacred bathing rituals in the Menik Ganga river, and statues honoring Skanda.
- Location: Kataragama, Southern Province
6. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara – Kelaniya
According to legend, the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara was blessed by the Buddha himself on one of his visits to Sri Lanka. This temple features elaborate paintings and statues depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology and is a popular pilgrimage site.
- Highlights: Vibrant murals, traditional annual processions, and a peaceful river setting.
- Location: Kelaniya, Western Province
7. Munneswaram Temple – Chilaw
One of the oldest Hindu temples in Sri Lanka, Munneswaram is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is part of a complex of five temples, including a Buddhist shrine. It is known for its annual festival, where devotees gather for rituals and traditional performances.
- Highlights: Ancient Dravidian architecture, puja ceremonies, and the annual Munneswaram Festival.
- Location: Chilaw, North Western Province
8. Mihintale – Near Anuradhapura
Often considered the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Mihintale is where King Devanampiyatissa was introduced to Buddhism by the monk Mahinda. The site includes a large stupa, a monastery, and a shrine honoring this pivotal event.
- Highlights: Rock-cut steps leading to shrines, panoramic views from the summit, and ancient monastery ruins.
- Location: Near Anuradhapura, North Central Province
9. Polonnaruwa Vatadage – Polonnaruwa
The Vatadage in Polonnaruwa is an architectural marvel dating back to the Polonnaruwa period. This circular relic house, or “Vatadage,” was built to protect a small stupa and is adorned with intricate stone carvings.
- Highlights: Ornate stone carvings, perfectly preserved Buddha statues, and the surrounding ruins of the ancient city.
- Location: Polonnaruwa, North Central Province
10. Nagadeepa Purana Vihara – Jaffna
Located on Nagadeepa Island in the northern part of Sri Lanka, this temple is one of the holiest Buddhist sites, believed to be visited by the Buddha to mediate a conflict between two kings. Accessible only by boat, the site is serene and historically significant.
- Highlights: Coastal views, relics from Buddhist history, and annual pilgrimages.
- Location: Nagadeepa Island, Northern Province
Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s historical temples are not only important religious centers but also reflect the country’s layered cultural heritage. Whether for pilgrimage or exploration, these sites offer a window into Sri Lanka’s ancient spirituality, architectural brilliance, and timeless traditions.
