The Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is a Buddhist temple complex in Kelaniya, Sri Lanka. It is one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in the country and is believed to be the site of the first visit of the Buddha to Sri Lanka.
The temple complex is home to a number of important Buddhist relics, including the Kelaniya Bodhi Tree, which is believed to be a sapling of the Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.
The Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is also known for its beautiful architecture and sculptures. The temple complex is made up of a number of buildings, including the main shrine room, the Bodhi Tree shrine, and the image house. The temple is decorated with intricate carvings and statues of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and other Buddhist deities.
Here are the must-see attractions within the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara:
- Main Shrine Room: The main shrine room is the most important building in the temple complex. It is home to the main Buddha statue, which is said to be over 2,500 years old.
- Bodhi Tree Shrine: The Bodhi Tree shrine is home to the sacred Kelaniya Bodhi Tree. This tree is believed to be a sapling of the Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.
- Image House: The image house is home to a number of beautiful statues of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and other Buddhist deities.
- Museum: The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the temple's long history, including ancient statues, paintings, and manuscripts.
- Library: The library contains a collection of Buddhist scriptures and other religious texts.
- Meditation Center: The meditation center is a place where visitors can come to meditate and learn about Buddhism.
- Admire the temple architecture: The Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is a beautiful example of Sri Lankan Buddhist architecture. The temple complex is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and other Buddhist deities.
- Take a walk through the temple grounds: The Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is surrounded by lush green gardens. Visitors can take a walk through the gardens and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the temple grounds.
- Observe the monks at prayer: The Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is a working Buddhist monastery. Visitors can observe the monks at prayer and learn about the Buddhist way of life.
- Attend a Buddhist ceremony: The Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara hosts a number of Buddhist ceremonies throughout the year. Visitors can attend these ceremonies and learn more about Buddhist culture.
The Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is a special place for Buddhists all over the world. It is a place where history and spirituality converge. Visitors to the temple can learn about the rich history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and experience the peace and tranquility of the Buddhist way of life.