Top 10 Buddhist Temples in Sri Lanka to Visit in 2025

Last Updated: April 06, 2025

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Sri Lanka is home to some of the world’s most reputed Buddhist temples. For instance, there’s Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura, which holds the Buddha’s sacred tooth and has the oldest human-planted tree, respectively. Sounds interesting, right? Like that, many other interesting must-see Buddhist temples exist in Sri Lanka.

Why Visit Sri Lankan Buddhist Temples?

Sri Lankan Buddhist temples demand a visit as they blend peace, history, and culture in every stupa and statue. These aren’t mere structures: they’re living history. Some stretch back over 2,000 years, even linking straight to Lord Buddha.

10 Buddhist Temples of Sri Lanka

Temple	Location	Description
Sri Dalada Maligawa	Kandy	This temple of the Tooth holds Buddha’s sacred relic.
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi	Anuradhapura	It has an ancient tree, the sapling of the Bodhi Tree, where Lord Buddha gained enlightenment.
Mihintale	Near Anuradhapura	This is the birthplace of Sri Lankan Buddhism.
Rankoth Vehera	Polonnaruwa	It houses a grand brick stupa.
Abhayagiri Vihara	Anuradhapura	Abhayagiri holds vast monastic ruins.
Gal Vihara	Polonnaruwa	Polonnaruwa’s rock-carved Buddha statues.
Sri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple	Galle	Galle’s modern Buddhist sanctuary has statues and shrines.
Mahamevnawa Monastery	Galle	Contemporary Theravada retreat and meditation hub
Ruwanwelisaya	Anuradhapura	Anuradhapura’s massive white stupa.
Lankatilaka Pilimage	Polonnaruwa	Holds an artistic Buddha shrine.

Sri Dalada Maligawa

Sri Dalada Maligawa, renowned as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, is in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Traditionally acknowledged, it holds Gautama Buddha’s left tooth, and Buddhists worldwide treasure this spot. UNESCO announced it a world heritage site in 1988 due to its distinctive Kandyan design and rich cultural importance.

Princess Hemamala and Prince Dantha brought the relic from India. This happened during King Keerthi Sri Meghavarna’s reign (301-328). Later, kings built and fixed the temple while King Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe shaped its current look.

Why is it a must-visit?

• The temple feels calm, great for prayer, meditation, or quiet moments.
• Golden roofs and intricate carvings scream classic Sri Lankan Buddhist art.
• You can see monks perform daily rituals, drums bang, chants rise, and offerings honor the Sacred Tooth.
• You also get to experience the Esala Perahera festival, which lights up the city yearly with parades, decked-out elephants, dancers, and music.

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

The Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree, is in Anuradhapura’s Sacred City. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka. Legend claims it grew from a sapling of the Bodhi tree: the very one under which Buddha found enlightenment. Sanghamitta (King Ashoka's daughter) brought it in 288 BC.

It stands on a 6.5-meter-high terrace, circled by railings. This tree holds the record as the oldest human-planted tree with a known date. Buddhists across Sri Lanka and beyond honor it deeply. Back then, King Kirthi Sri Rajasingha even built a wall to keep wild elephants away. Sanghamitta, Emperor Asoka’s daughter, carried the sapling, and King Devanampiya Tissa planted it in Mahamevnawa Park in 280 BC.

What sets it apart?

• A golden fence surrounds it, signifying its spiritual worth.
• The peaceful temple complex nearby invites prayer and calm thoughts.

Mihintale

Mihintale holds a big place in Sri Lanka’s history: it’s where Buddhism started on the island. This ancient Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka sits 13 kilometers east of Anuradhapura and dates back to 247 BCE. A monk named Mahinda, son of India’s Emperor Ashoka, brought Buddhism here. 

He met King Devanampiya Tissa on a hill in Mihintale and taught him Buddha’s ways. That moment changed Sri Lanka forever. Today, people see Mihintale as one of the oldest Sri Lankan Buddhist temples, with 1,500 stone steps leading to its top, old stupas, and a calm vibe.

What Makes It Special?

• Climbing the 1,500 steps feels like a journey back in time. 
• At the top, you spot the 40-foot Mihintale Stupa, built in the 1st century BCE, and a big Buddha statue added in 1980. 
• Over 100,000 pilgrims visit yearly, especially during Poson in June, to celebrate Buddhism’s arrival with lanterns and prayers.

Rankoth Vehera

Rankoth Vehera is situated in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. King Nissanka Malla built it when he ruled there from 1187 to 1196. Modeled after Anuradhapura’s stupas, it mirrors Ruwanwelisaya. Once called "Ruwanweli," its Sinhalese name "Gold Pinnacled Stupa" refers to its shining golden top. 

Made of brick, it stretches 550 feet around its base and rises 108 feet high. It may have initially reached 200 feet before renovations altered its upper shape. It ranks as Polonnaruwa’s biggest stupa and Sri Lanka’s fourth largest. It features four brick Vahalkadas for flower offerings and sits on a square terrace with four entrances. 

A stone inscription nearby spills the details: King Nissanka Malla built it and prayed from a small platform on the terrace.

Why check it out?

• The vibe stays calm: perfect for meditation or quiet reflection.
• This temple showcases the Polonnaruwa Kingdom’s faith and building chops.
• Sunsets steal the show. The stupa glows under a golden sky, pulling you into its calm charm.

Abhayagiri Vihara

Abhayagiri Vihara, a monastery in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, doubles as the name of a bold group of Buddhist monks. Established in the 2nd century BC, it became a major center by the 1st century AD, blending early Buddhist texts with Mahayana teachings, as noted by Chinese pilgrims.

Rich in Mahayana art and bodhisattva statues, it used to have a Tantric influence, which King Parakkamabahu I (1153–1186 CE) ended the tradition. He banned its ways, forcing rival monks to ditch their vows or join the Anuradhapura Mahavihara sect. The Abhayagiri Dagaba, fully restored by Sri Lanka’s Central Cultural Fund under UNESCO, reopened in June 2015.

Why visit Abhayagiri Vihara?

• The Abhayagiri Stupa was one of the significant structures of its time, showcasing ancient engineering.
• The site contains ruins of meditation halls, libraries, and monks' quarters.
• You’ll see stunning moonstones and guard stones that display old Sri Lankan art.
• Surrounding ponds and gardens make this a peaceful place to enjoy nature.

Gal Vihara

Gal Vihara, a rock temple from the mid-12th century in Sri Lanka, features four stunning Buddha statues carved into granite gneiss during King Parakramabahu I’s reign (1153-1186). Known originally as Uttaramama, it includes two seated Buddhas, a reclining Buddha showing his passing, and a mysterious standing figure, possibly Ananda, his disciple. 

The site, praised as a Sri Lankan art masterpiece, once had wooden and brick structures, but is now lost and is sheltered by a modern metal roof. Here, a medieval Sinhala inscription spills the tea: Parakramabahu I united Buddhist groups and set rules to keep the faith strong. Its durable gneiss statues are nearly perfect after centuries, symbolising his devotion to Buddhism.

What makes it unique?

• It has four Buddha statues in different poses, including standing, seated, and reclining positions.
• The reclining Buddha is 15 meters long and beautifully detailed.

Sri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple

Sri Sudharmalaya Viharaya, established in 1889, is located in Galle Fort, Sri Lanka. Its design impresses with lobed arches, a portico, and a belfry-like structure. Some suggest it began as a colonial church. A plaque, however, names S. A. Wickramasinghe as its founder in the late 19th century.

Wealthy Sinhalese and Muslim families financed its rise. Samarawickrema records their efforts. They settled in Modder Baay, a former swamp according to Dutch maps. A legal document from 1887 states that the Sudharmarana Sangamaya society created it to advance Buddhism. They converted an existing building into this temple. 

Today, it houses an assembly hall with wooden votive statues, a bell-shaped stupa, a reclining Buddha without a bolster, a golden Buddha footprint, and murals depicting his life.

Why visit Sri Sudharmalaya?

• The temple’s statues and shrines showcase Sri Lanka’s Buddhist culture.
• Despite being in a busy city, the temple feels calm and inviting.
• The temple hosts festivals like Vesak and Poson, which bring people together in celebration.

Mahamevnawa Monastery

The Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery (MBM) follows Gautama Buddha’s teachings. It forms a large Theravada Buddhist network. Its main center sits in Polgahawela, Sri Lanka. MBM manages nearly 130 branches worldwide, out of which over 80 operate in Sri Lanka.

Home to over 1,000 monks and 100 nuns, MBM thrives under the most venerable Kiribathgoda Gnanananda Thero. This founder and chief monk spreads Buddhism globally, focusing on ending suffering (Dukkha) and achieving Nibbana.

What makes it special?

• The monastery is calm and perfect for meditation and mindfulness.
• The simple, beautiful buildings reflect traditional Buddhist principles with simplicity and grace.
• Group and private meditations are available, along with books about Buddhist teachings.
• The monastery has branches in many countries, spreading its wisdom worldwide.

Ruwanwelisaya

Ruwanweli Maha Seya, a grand stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, holds the largest collection of Buddha’s relics. King Dutugemunu built it around 140 B.C. after defeating the Chola King Elara. It stands 103 meters tall with a 290-meter base. Known as Swarnamali Seya, it’s a sacred "Solosmasthana" and "Atamasthana" site.

The Mahavamsa shares its tale. Dutugemunu hid relics in a reclining Buddha image. Novices Uttara and Sumana sealed it as a miracle that amazed millions. After 19th-century neglect, restoration revived it in the early 20th century, with a new crown added in 2019.

Why visit here?

• The stupa’s white dome stands 103 meters tall.
• An elephant wall surrounds the stupa, which is decorated with carvings.
• The temple complex provides a quiet space for meditation and reflection.

Lankatilaka Pilimage

Lankatilaka Pilimage is located in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka and is a perfect example of ancient Sinhalese architecture and Buddhist artistry. It was built in the twelfth century during the reign of King Parakramabahu I. This towering brick structure features intricate carvings, massive Buddha statues, and stunning frescoes. 

Known for its grandeur and spiritual significance, Lankatilaka Pilimage is a testament to the ingenuity and devotion of Sri Lanka’s medieval builders.

Why visit this place?

• It is a real testament to the advanced engineering skills of its time.
• This site delivers a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
• You can see the detailed stone and brickwork of ancient Sinhalese artistry.

Things to Remember While Visiting Buddhist Temples in Sri Lanka

Use these clear steps to make your visit smooth and respectful:

1. Dress Properly: Wear clothes covering your shoulders and knees. Temples like Sri Dalada Maligawa and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi expect modesty, so bring a scarf or long pants if needed.
2. Arrive Early: Visit between 6 AM and 9 AM. Mornings are cool and quiet, especially at busy spots like Ruwanwelisaya, where crowds grow by noon.
3. Carry Cash: Bring 50-100 LKR (Sri Lankan Rupees) for small donations at temples and 500 LKR for hiring a local guide. Guides at Gal Vihara or Mihintale can share history you won’t find on signs.
4. Follow Photo Rules: Check for “No Photography” signs before snapping pictures. Some Sri Lankan Buddhist temples, like Sri Dalada Maligawa, ban photos inside sacred areas to honor their traditions.
5. Talk to Locals: Ask nearby residents for tips. They often point you to hidden Buddhist temples and Sri Lanka gems, like the Kachchiwatta Ancient Temple, and share the best times to visit.

Conclusion

Sri Lanka has some of the world’s renowned Buddhist monasteries and temples, each having their own uniqueness. From the cultural vibrance of the Temple of the Tooth Relic to the ancient serenity of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, these famous Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka offer something different for everyone.

Each temple carries a unique story of faith, tradition, and artistry. Hence, if you love Buddhism, make sure to explore these awe-inspiring temples and connect with them. 

FAQs

What are the places Buddha visited in Sri Lanka?

According to Sri Lankan tradition, Buddha visited Sri Lanka three times:

• Mihintale: This is where Buddha first came and brought Buddhism to Sri Lanka.
• Nagadeepa (Jaffna): Buddha came here to stop a fight between two Naga kings.
• Kelaniya (near Colombo): Buddha visited to teach and bless the area.

Where is the best place to visit as a Buddhist in Sri Lanka?

The best places for Buddhists to visit in Sri Lanka are:

• Anuradhapura: This ancient city has the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree and huge stupas like Ruwanwelisaya.
• Kandy: It has the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which holds Buddha’s tooth(a very holy relic).
• Polonnaruwa: This city has beautiful ruins like Gal Vihara and Lankatilaka Pilimage.
• Mihintale: This is where Buddhism started in this island country and is also regarded as one of the oldest Sri Lankan Buddhist temples.

What are the 4 Buddhist places?

The four most sacred Buddhist places in the world are:

• Lumbini (Nepal): Buddha was born here.
• Bodh Gaya (India): Buddha became enlightened here.
• Sarnath (India): Buddha gave his first teaching here.
• Kushinagar (India): Buddha passed away here.

Are there Buddhists in Sri Lanka?

Yes, Sri Lanka has many Buddhists. About 70.2% of the Sri Lankan people follow Theravada Buddhism. Buddhism is significant in Sri Lanka’s culture and daily life.

Do Sri Lankan Buddhists eat meat?

Yes, some Sri Lankan Buddhists eat meat, but some choose not to. Monks, however, traditionally follow strict dietary rules and do not consume meat if they know the animal was killed specifically for them.

What are the top 3 Buddhist symbols?

The three most important Buddhist symbols are:

• The Bodhi Tree: It stands for enlightenment.
• The Dharma Wheel (Dharmachakra): It shows Buddha’s teachings and the path to enlightenment.
• The Lotus Flower: It means purity and spiritual growth.