Joanna James
If you visit the charming nation of Sri Lanka, you will find several must-visit spiritual sites, such as Sigiriya Rock, Adam's Peak, Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, Mihintale, Kalutara Temple and so on. Here's more on these must-visit attractions.
The eye-catching Sigiriya Rock is regarded as one of Sri Lanka's foremost attractions and is also a site of spiritual importance. In 477 A.D, the monarch Kashyapa I decided to construct a lavish palace on the summit of the mammoth Sigiriya Rock. In this stunning setting you will find today one of Sri Lanka's most outstanding archaeological marvels; the remains of the palace, royal gardens, terraces and lakes. You will have the opportunity to ascend the numerous stone steps to reach the ruins of the palace set amidst stunning vistas.
Adam's Peak is a lofty mountain that happens to be sacred to followers of all of Sri Lanka's major religions. Buddhists who refer to the peak as Sri Pada believe that the summit of the mountain features the footprint of Buddha; on the other hand, Hindus believe the mark to be Shiva's footprint, whilst Muslims and Christians consider it to be the footprint of Adam. From the summit of this mountain, you will have the chance to enjoy splendid views over the verdant hills, tea plantations and lakes; not to be missed is the chance to catch a sunrise here.
Sri Lanka's greatly venerated Sri Maha Bodhi tree is believed to have been grown from a branch of the very tree beneath which the Buddha achieved enlightenment. The Sri Maha Bodhi Tree was planted in the city of Anuradhapura in the year 249 B.C and since then has been looked after and worshipped by Sri Lanka's Buddhists. You will see that this tree has been adorned with prayer flags and happens to be encircled by a golden railing as well.
Mihintale, a mountain located in the environs of the city of Anuradhapura, is another noteworthy spiritual site in Sri Lanka; it is where Arahat Mahinda from India preached his first sermon to King Devanampiyatissa which led to his conversion to Buddhism; subsequently, the country converted to Buddhism as well. Here, you will encounter some interesting ruins that will draw the interest of the history and culture lover. You will also be able to ascend the mountain by way of a stone stairway; as you make your way to the top, you will notice a dilapidated monastery, a handsome stupa and an immense Buddha statue which seemingly looks over the area below.
Many local Buddhists visit Kalutara Temple to engage in religious activities. You will see that this temple features an unusual hollow stupa, inside which you will find several murals depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha. Another noteworthy religious attraction at Kalutara Temple would be the Kalutara Bodhiya, a sacred Bo tree. A choice of accommodation to consider from which you could easily visit this temple would be Avani Kalutara Resort which may be regarded as a pleasingly located 'Safe and Secure' certified Kalutara beach resort.
Your tour of Sri Lanka's spiritual highlights would not be complete without visiting the remarkable Ruwanwelisaya in the ancient city of Anuradhapura. Sri Lanka boasts an array of interesting stupas, and Ruwanwelisaya may well be the finest of them all. This imposing domed structure measures an impressive 55 m in height and features ornate handcrafted friezes. While the stupa was originally constructed many centuries ago, today, visitors will find that it has meticulously been restored and refurbished.
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