Famous Buddhist Temples in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, often called the “Island of Dharma,” is a land where Buddhist spirituality breathes through the centuries-old stupas and the ancient Bodhi trees. Adding to them are the several temples like the holy Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the awe-inspiring Dambulla Cave Temple that are some most famous Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. The sacred Jaya Shri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura and the Mihintale Monastery are known to hold immense spiritual power, while the Mulgirigala Rock Temple and the Kataragama Shrine showcase the country’s cultural unity and artistic brilliance.Pilgrims and travellers alike are drawn to these sanctuaries to soak in their tranquility, admire the architectural grandeur, and meditate in the soft rhythm of chants that echo through these holy places. These ancient Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka can take you on a journey into the soul of the land itself. Each place, with its legends, rituals, and breathtaking beauty, reminds every visitor that faith, peace, and compassion are the true treasures of this island nation.
We have compiled a list of 10 best Buddhist temples to visit in Sri Lanka on this page to help you explore the country better. So, add some of them on your next Sri Lanka trip, and explore the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka!
10 Must-Visit Buddhist Temples in Sri Lanka
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Kandy) Famous temple housing Buddha’s tooth relic and known for the Esala Perahera festival.
- Dambulla Cave Temple (Matale District) Largest cave temple complex with 150+ Buddha statues and vibrant murals.
- Gangaramaya Temple (Colombo) Urban temple blending modern and traditional architecture with a museum and Bodhi tree.
- Ruwanwelisaya Stupa (Anuradhapura) Iconic white stupa surrounded by elephant sculptures, perfect for meditation and rituals.
- Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara )Near Colombo) Over 2,500-year-old temple visited by Buddha, famous for murals and Duruthu Perahera festival.
- Jaya Shri Maha Bodhi (Anuradhapura) World’s oldest living Bodhi tree, revered for meditation and spiritual serenity.
- Mihintale (Near Anuradhapura) Birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka with ancient stupas, caves, and panoramic views.
- Isurumuniya Temple (Anuradhapura) Known for rock carvings and the famous “Isurumuniya Lovers” sculpture.
- Mulgirigala Raja Maha Vihara (Tangalle) Cliff-top temple with cave shrines, frescoes, and reclining Buddha statues.
- Kataragama Temple (Southern Sri Lanka) Multi-religious shrine famous for Esala Festival, fire-walking, and colorful processions.