6 Amazing Temples in Sri Lanka – Stunning and Unforgettable Religious Attractions

As you might expect, the highlight at this greatly venerated religious site in Sri Lanka would be the Sri Maha Bodhi tree which is sacred to Buddhists; it is believed to have developed from a sapling of the very tree under which the Buddha achieved enlightenment in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent. After this sapling was brought over to Sri Lanka by the daughter of Emperor Ashoka, it was safeguarded by the local monarchs. Today, you will see that this tree is encircled by gilded fences and various statues.

The renowned Ruwanwelisaya would be one of the most noteworthy temples in the historical town of Anuradhapura which was one of Sri Lanka's ancient capitals. It was constructed around 140 BCE by the well-known monarch Dutugemunu who is regarded as a legendary king. Even today, Ruwanwelisaya is greatly revered by the people of Sri Lanka with numerous pilgrims as well as sightseers visiting the attraction. You will find that this temple would be particularly resplendent on the evening of a full moon day.

Another important temple at Anuradhapura would be the impressive Abhayagiri Vihara; this site was constructed by the monarch Valagamba in the 2nd century BCE following his defeat of Chola invaders from India who had earlier overrun his kingdom. Interestingly, this temple was the site where the priceless tooth relic of the Buddha was initially enshrined. Unlike many other stupas in Sri Lanka, the one at Abhayagiri Vihara does not feature a white plastered appearance; instead, it is formed of yellowish-brown stone.

In the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, another of Sri Lanka's royal capitals, you would find Rankot Vihara. This stupa which happens to be Polonnaruwa's largest with a height of 54 m was constructed by the ruler Nissanka Malla many centuries ago. This absorbing temple was overrun by jungle before its restoration; even today, you will see that it is encircled by the jungle, making it seem as if it would be encroached by wild vegetation once again.

A place of worship of a rather different kind would be the absorbing Seetha Amman Temple; it has the distinction of being the sole Hindu shrine in Sri Lanka that happens to be dedicated to Sita, a heroine of the Hindu epic the Ramayana. According to tradition, Princess Sita was held captive at this location by the demon king Ravana and she prayed daily to be rescued by Rama, her husband. Consider staying at a Nuwara Eliya luxury bungalow from which you could easily plan an excursion to this temple such as Stafford Bungalow.

Your tour of Sri Lanka's outstanding temples would be incomplete without experiencing the entrancing Dambulla Cave Temple. You will see that this attraction which is regarded as the island nation's largest complex of cave temples would offer many features of interest. Here, you would find an array of engrossing paintings and statues depicting the Buddha, various deities and kings. As the cave temple is situated on top of a rock, you could also enjoy stunning views over the surrounding areas from this location.