Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, is home to thousands of ancient temples. These sacred sites represent centuries of religious traditions, where Buddhism and Hinduism have flourished together, creating a unique spiritual landscape. The Sri Lanka temple architecture reflects influences from India, Southeast Asia, and local Sinhalese traditions, making each shrine a masterpiece of art and faith.
The island’s temple history dates back over 2,500 years, beginning with the arrival of Buddhism in the 3rd century BCE. Ancient kings built magnificent temples as centers of worship and learning. Meanwhile, Hindu temples in Sri Lanka were established by Tamil communities, creating colorful kovils with intricate sculptures and towering gopurams. Today, these temples continue to serve as spiritual centers for both locals and pilgrims from around the world.
This is why our special Sri Lanka tour packages include visits to these sacred sites, offering glimpses into the island’s rich religious heritage. This blog will take you through 15 remarkable temples across Sri Lanka, each with its own story, architectural beauty, and spiritual significance. These temples offer unforgettable experiences that connect you with the island’s deep spiritual roots.
1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy stands as Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist temple. This Sri Lanka temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, making it one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Buddhist world. The temple complex showcases traditional Kandyan architecture with intricate woodwork, golden roofs, and beautiful paintings depicting Buddhist stories. Daily rituals called “Thewawa” attract thousands of devotees who come to offer prayers and witness the ancient ceremonies that have continued for centuries.
Location: Sri Dalada Veediya, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: ₹600 for foreigners
2. Dambulla Cave Temple (Golden Temple)
Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple, represents one of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular Buddhist sites. This ancient Sri Lanka temple complex consists of five caves carved into a massive rock outcrop, containing over 150 Buddha statues and extensive murals covering 2,100 square meters. The temple dates back to the 1st century BCE and served as a refuge for King Valagamba. The vibrant paintings and sculptures create an otherworldly atmosphere that transports visitors back through centuries of Buddhist artistry and devotion.
Location: Dambulla, Matale District, Central Province, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: ₹570 for foreigners
3. Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
Located in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Ruwanwelisaya Stupa stands as one of the largest and most sacred Buddhist monuments in Sri Lanka. This magnificent Sri Lanka temple was built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE and represents the architectural pinnacle of ancient Sinhalese craftsmanship. The massive white dome rises 103 meters high and is surrounded by elephant statues that seem to support the structure. The best time to visit Sri Lanka to experience this temple is during the cooler months from December to March, when the weather is perfect for exploring the vast complex.
Location: Anuradhapura, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: ₹700 for foreigners
4. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara holds immense significance as one of the three places in Sri Lanka visited by Lord Buddha. This is among the most famous temples in Sri Lanka located just outside Colombo and features stunning murals painted by renowned artist Solias Mendis. The temple’s modern paintings depict Buddhist stories and Sri Lankan history in vivid detail. The annual Duruthu Perahera festival transforms the temple into a spectacular celebration of lights, colors, and traditional performances that attract visitors from across the island.
Location: Kelaniya, Gampaha District, Western Province, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: No entry fee
5. Thiruketheeswaram Kovil
Thiruketheeswaram Kovil in Mannar stands as one of the Pancha Ishwarams, five ancient coastal temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. This Hindu temples in Sri Lanka dates back over 2,400 years and overlooks the ancient Tamil port towns of Manthai and Kudiramalai. The temple’s architecture reflects classical South Indian Dravidian style with intricate stone carvings and a towering gopuram. The temple’s location near the sea creates a mystical atmosphere where devotees can experience the spiritual power of Shiva while enjoying breathtaking coastal views.
Location: Mannar, Northern Province, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: No entry fee, donations welcome
6. Gangaramaya Temple
Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo represents modern Buddhist architecture blended with traditional elements. This Sri Lanka temple serves as both a place of worship and a center for Buddhist learning and cultural activities. The temple complex includes a museum, library, and meditation hall, housing an impressive collection of Buddha statues, antiques, and religious artifacts from various Asian countries. The temple’s floating pavilion, Seema Malakaya, sits beautifully on Beira Lake and provides a serene meditation space surrounded by water.
Location: 61 Sri Jinarathana Rd, Colombo 00200, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: ₹100 for foreigners
7. Nagapooshani Amman Temple
Nagapooshani Amman Temple on Nainativu Island is one of the most important Hindu temples in Sri Lanka dedicated to Goddess Parvati. This ancient temple attracts pilgrims from across South Asia who come to seek blessings from the powerful goddess. The temple’s colorful gopuram rises majestically against the island’s landscape, while the interior houses beautiful statues and intricate carvings. The journey to reach the temple involves a scenic ferry ride, making the pilgrimage itself a memorable spiritual experience.
Location: Nainativu Island, Jaffna District, Northern Province, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: No entry fee
8. Mihintale
Mihintale holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, making it one of the most sacred places to visit in Sri Lanka. This ancient monastery complex sits atop a hill where Arahat Mahinda first preached Buddhism to King Devanampiyatissa in 247 BCE. The site features numerous stupas, meditation caves, and ruins that showcase the early development of Buddhist architecture. Climbing the 1,840 granite steps to reach the summit provides both physical challenge and spiritual reward, with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Location: Mihintale, Anuradhapura District, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: ₹150 for foreigners
9. Jetavanaramaya Stupa
Jetavanaramaya Stupa in Anuradhapura stands as one of the tallest ancient brick structures in the world, reaching 122 meters in height. This monumental Sri Lanka temple was built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century CE and represents the architectural achievements of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. The stupa’s massive dome required millions of bricks and showcases the engineering capabilities of ancient Buddhist architects. The surrounding monastic complex once housed thousands of monks and remains an important pilgrimage site for Buddhist devotees worldwide.
Location: Anuradhapura, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: ₹1,000 for foreigners
10. Koneswaram Temple
Koneswaram Temple in Trincomalee is one of the Pancha Ishwarams and represents classical Hindu temples in Sri Lankan architecture. Perched dramatically on Swami Rock overlooking the Indian Ocean, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva offers breathtaking views and spiritual experiences. The temple’s history spans over 2,000 years, though the current structure was rebuilt after Portuguese destruction in 1624. The temple’s location creates a unique atmosphere where devotees can worship while enjoying spectacular sunrises and ocean views.
Location: Trincomalee, Eastern Province, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: No entry fee
11. Isurumuniya Vihara
Isurumuniya Vihara in Anuradhapura represents one of the most artistic famous temples in Sri Lanka, famous for its ancient rock carvings and sculptures. This 3rd-century BCE temple is built into a natural rock formation and features the famous “Isurumuniya Lovers” carving, considered a masterpiece of ancient Sinhalese art. The temple’s pond and surrounding gardens create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for meditation and reflection. The combination of natural rock formations with architectural elements makes this temple unique among Sri Lankan religious sites.
Location: Anuradhapura, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: ₹150 for foreigners
12. Vel Murugan Temple
Vel Murugan Temple in Colombo stands as a modern example of Tamil temple architecture in urban Sri Lanka. This Sri Lanka temple dedicated to Lord Murugan features colorful gopurams, intricate sculptures, and traditional South Indian architectural elements. The temple serves the Tamil community in Colombo and celebrates annual festivals with great enthusiasm. The temple’s location in the heart of Colombo makes it easily accessible for visitors wanting to experience Hindu religious practices and Tamil cultural traditions.
Location: Station Road, Colombo 04, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: No entry fee
13. Buduruwagala Temple
Buduruwagala Temple features the largest ancient Buddha statue carved from rock in Sri Lanka, standing 15 meters tall. This is one of the most famous temples in Sri Lanka, and dates back to the 9th or 10th century, while also representing Mahayana Buddhist influences in ancient Sri Lankan art. The seven statues carved into the rock face include Buddha flanked by bodhisattvas and other figures, creating an impressive sculptural ensemble. The temple’s remote location in Wellawaya provides a peaceful setting for contemplation and appreciation of ancient Buddhist artistry.
Location: Wellawaya, Monaragala District, Uva Province, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: ₹150 for foreigners
14. Polonnaruwa Gal Vihara
Polonnaruwa Gal Vihara showcases the finest examples of ancient Sinhalese rock sculpture, featuring four magnificent Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock. This 12th-century Sri Lanka temple represents the artistic pinnacle of the Polonnaruwa period under King Parakramabahu I. The standing Buddha statue, measuring 7 meters tall, demonstrates exceptional craftsmanship and spiritual expression. The site’s historical significance and artistic beauty make it one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed and admired temple complexes.
Location: Polonnaruwa, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: ₹1,000 – 1,200 for foreigners
15. Kataragama Temple
Kataragama Temple serves as a unique multi-religious site where Buddhist, Hindu, and indigenous beliefs converge. This Sri Lanka temple dedicated to God Kataragama (Murugan) attracts pilgrims from various religious backgrounds who come seeking blessings and spiritual healing. The temple complex includes separate shrines for different deities and hosts the famous annual Kataragama festival, one of Sri Lanka’s most important religious celebrations.
Location: Kataragama, Monaragala District, Uva Province, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: No entry fee
What are the 5 Shiva temples in Sri Lanka?
A. The five Shiva temples (Pancha Ishwarams) in Sri Lanka are Thiruketheeswaram in Mannar, Koneswaram in Trincomalee, Thirumunneswaram in Chilaw, Naguleswaram in Keerimalai, and Thondeswaram in Tennavaram. These ancient coastal temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Does Sri Lanka have Hindu temples?
A. Yes, Sri Lanka has numerous Hindu temples, particularly in Tamil-majority areas. These include ancient Shiva temples, Murugan kovils, and Ganesha temples. The Tamil community has maintained these temples for centuries, with many featuring traditional South Indian Dravidian architecture and colorful gopurams.
Which God is famous in Sri Lanka?
A. Lord Buddha is most famous in Sri Lanka as the majority population follows Buddhism. However, Hindu deities like Ganesha, Murugan, and Shiva are also widely worshipped. Kataragama (Murugan) is particularly revered by both Buddhists and Hindus across the island.
Where is Ashok Vatika in Sri Lanka?
A. Ashok Vatika is believed to be located in Hakgala Botanical Garden near Nuwara Eliya, according to Ramayana legend. This is where Sita was supposedly held captive by Ravana. The garden features ashoka trees and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees.
Is Sanjeevani Mountain still in Sri Lanka?
A. According to the Ramayana, Sanjeevani Mountain is believed to be Ritigala in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province. This forest monastery complex contains medicinal plants and ancient ruins.
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