Discover the Spiritual Essence of Sri Lanka – 10 sites to showcase the spiritual side
- Vihangaka Pabodha
- Dec 11, 2023
- 4 min read
When we talk about Sri Lanka, we can predict that it is a source of spiritual essence. So if someone needs to experience that, it is best to visit Sri Lanka and worship temples.
Here are some of the important facts and sites you need to check out if you are fortunate enough to visit Sri Lanka.
What is spirituality?
Spirituality is often mentioned in religious readings. Most religions point out that spiritual healing is better than any other physical healing.
What is spiritual healing?
If we talk about spiritual healing, we can introduce it as a somewhat deeper topic. Simply put, spiritual healing refers to the relief we get mentally and spiritually.
Why is this spirituality talked about the most in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is a country where spiritual healing is widely discussed. The main reason for that is the existence of the Buddhist philosophy of Lord Buddha in Sri Lanka.
In Sri Lanka, strengthen their spiritual well-being. So let’s take a look at the spiritual places in Sri Lanka.
TOP TEMPLES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA
1. Temple of the tooth
Mentioning the Dalada Palace, it was built during the Kanda Udara Kingdom, the last kingdom in Sri Lanka. Located in a very beautiful place in the Kandy region, there is a tooth relic of Buddha brought from India by “Hemamala and Danta Kumaru.” Hemamala Dantha Kumaru
Many Buddhist people are coming to worship this place, especially after April.
The exterior of the temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Sri Dalada Maligawa, in Kandy, Sri Lanka, Asia
2. Adams Peak
When we talk about spiritual places in Sri Lanka, we can’t avoid Adams Peak. Adams Peak is one of the highest mountains in Sri Lanka. Most people, even foreigners, like to climb this place because of the environment and weather.
The reason Sri Padasthan is most famous among tourists is that they use it for hiking. But Sri Padasthan is a place of great religious value and ninety different miracles.
“SUMANA SAMAN DIVYARAJA” (Sumana Saman Deviyo) has created this great religious shrine based on the Buddha’s footprints.
This place is located in Hatton, and if someone wants to worship this place, they can reach out to Ratnapura Road too. Normally, Adams Pack worship sessions run from December to May.
3. Koneshvaram Kovil
Koneshwaram Temple is considered Panchaeshwaram. It is considered to be one of the five abodes of Lord Shiva. Hence, it is said to be the most important Hindu temple in the country.
This temple was plundered by the Portuguese during the 17th century. As a result, many priceless artifacts were lost. But this was re-established during the rule of the Dutch and the British.
This land, which is highly respected among the Hindu community, can be referred to as a shrine that has been blessed to fulfill the wishes of many devotees.
4. Bahirawakanda Temple
In mentioning the Bhairavakanda temple, which is one of the tallest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka and is located in the Kandy area,
This is an extremely popular temple among tourists. Built in 1972, this temple is very close to tourist attractions as well as spiritual healing.
Due to various legends, the area where this temple is located is named Bhairavakanda. As it is located in the city of Kandy, which is known for the most tourist attractions, the temple is also easy to reach.
5. Ruwanwali Maha Saya
King Dutugemunu started to build this stupa in the 2nd century BC. Ruwanweli Maha Saya is known as the largest stupa, or dagaba, that was created during the Anuradhapura kingdom in Sri Lanka.
Ruwanwelisaya stupa at the sacred city of Anuradhapura, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
This shrine, which occupies a place of high spiritual significance, is highly worshiped among the Sri Lankan Buddhist community.
Ruwanwelisaya stupa at the sacred city of Anuradhapura, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
The relics that were a basin for the Buddha are housed in this stupa. Located in a historic and sacred city called Anuradhapura, this stupa has attracted the most tourists from home and abroad.
It is also known as Swarnamali Sayya. This temple is located in a very beautiful area. Ruwanweli Maha Saya can be introduced as one of the stops for the pilgrims who come to worship Atamasthana.
6. Seruwawila
This temple is located in the beautiful area of Trincomalee, where the relics of the Lord Buddha reside. This is named the 16th place among the sixteen places in Sri Lanka.
This stupa, which was left in ruins due to the Tamil invasions in the north, was restored in 1922, preserved, and given to its supporters in 1931.
7. Sri Maha Bodhiya
This tree has been carefully preserved for over 2,000 years, and it is a symbol of peace and tranquility. The temple complex surrounding the tree is also a place of great spiritual significance.
8. Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa is another ancient city in Sri Lanka that is steeped in history and spirituality. The ancient ruins and temples here are a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The Gal Vihara, which houses four magnificent statues of the Buddha carved out of solid rock, is one of the most impressive sights in Polonnaruwa.
The city is also home to many other temples and ruins that offer a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s past.
9. Dambulla Cave Temple
The Dambulla Cave Temple is a series of five caves converted into temples.
The caves are located on a hill overlooking the town of Dambulla, and they are filled with ancient Buddhist art and artifacts.
The walls and ceilings of the caves are adorned with intricate paintings and carvings, and the atmosphere inside the caves is serene and peaceful.
10. Somawathi
Somawathiya Chaitya, or Somawathi Rajamaha Viharaya, is a Buddhist stupa and temple situated in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka.
Accordingly, after the work on the stupa was completed, the prince requested some “data” from Mihindu Mahimi to be placed in the stupa’s relic chamber.
It is mentioned in the chronicles that Mihindu Mahimi gave him the right tooth of Lord Buddha.
Most South Asian countries tend to be very religious when considering countries. Religion can be said to be a proposition that is fundamental to the spirituality of any person.
Sri Lanka can be introduced as the best country to visit if one really wants to get mental and spiritual satisfaction. So, come and immerse yourself in the rich spiritual heritage of this beautiful land and discover for yourself the true essence of spirituality.
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