Sri Lanka boasts some of the world’s most stunning temples, reflecting its rich cultural diversity. Many of these temples are renowned for their unique characteristics. If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to visit these iconic temples. They’re sure to leave you inspired and filled with positivity.
List of 10 Most Popular Temples in Sri Lanka:
1. Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple
This cave temple is a sacred pilgrimage site that has been in existence for 22 centuries. Rangiri Dambulla cave temple is located in central Sri Lanka. It is a Buddhist temple that focuses on five cave shrines. These natural caves have been home to forest-dwelling Buddhist monks.
This cave has been transformed into one of the most impressive Buddhist complexes in Sri Lanka over the centuries. It also showcases innovative interior design and decoration. The cave shrines were renovated and refurbished several times to maintain a long-standing Buddhist ritual practice and continual royal patronage.
This site is unique in the Buddhist world because it is associated with the ongoing tradition of living Buddhist ritual practices and pilgrimage for over two millennia.
Why Visit: The Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its stunning cave paintings and Buddha statues.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Caves: Visit the five main caves filled with ancient statues and frescoes.
- Learn History: Discover the temple’s rich history dating back to the 1st century BCE.
- Photography: Capture the intricate murals and serene surroundings.
Timing: Open daily from 7 am to 7 pm. Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.
How to reach: There are flights available to Katunayaka’s Bandaranaike International Airport. From there, tourists can take a bus or hire a car to travel to Dambulla. After reaching Dambulla, visitors can reach any one of these places by bus or hire a car.
Read Also: Top 10 Places to See in Sri Lanka
2. Gangaramaya Temple
It is one of the most well-known Buddhist temples in Colombo. It is known for its serene surroundings and tranquil atmosphere. It is situated on the banks of the Beira Lake and boasts enormous architecture. The temple’s majestic entrance is marked by intricate carvings and statues on the other side of the lake.
It was due to the unique combination of architectural elements in the temple that attracted thousands of tourists from around the globe. Gangaramaya Temple serves more than just as a place to worship. It also serves as a learning center. It is home to the Sri Jinarathana Training Institute.
The institute manages nearly 40 training centers that offer a range of vocational courses. These centers are home to more than 7,000 students.
Why Visit: Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka, blending traditional architecture with modern elements.
Things to Do:
- Temple Tour: Explore the main temple, museum, and library.
- Bodhi Tree: Visit the sacred Bodhi Tree within the temple grounds.
- Cultural Insight: Learn about Buddhist practices and rituals.
Timing: Open daily from 6 am to 10 pm. Respectful attire is required.
How to Reach: The bus and taxi will take approximately an hour to take you from the airport to the temple. And, this bus is very affordable and only costs you INR 80.
3. Also read: 10 Good Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka
Temple of the Tooth
The temple of the sacred teeth relic is the most important religious place for Buddhists. It attracts monks and Buddhists from all over the globe. The temple is located in Kandy and houses the tooth of Buddha.
It is one of the most important relics ever to be preserved. Because of its golden roof and monumental architecture, it is on the list of world heritage. It is a well-guarded temple.
The tooth is protected in an encasing that looks like a stupa and places within a series of diminishing encasements—the premises house the tooth relic and several shrines, museums, and temples that tourists can visit.
Why Visit: The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy houses the sacred tooth relic of Buddha and is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
Things to Do:
- Relic Viewing: Observe the sacred tooth relic kept in a gold casket.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy traditional music and dance performances.
- Explore the Museum: Learn about the temple’s history and significance.
Timing: Open daily from 5:30 am to 8 pm. Wear modest clothing and remove shoes before entering.
How to Reach: It is approximately 2 km from the Kandy railway station. You can also take buses from Colombo to reach the temple.
Read also: September Travel Guide: Sri Lanka’s Must-See Spots
4. Naguleswaram Temple
Naguleswaram temple is a centuries-old historical Hindu temple. It is located in the northern capital of Jaffna, Sri Lanka. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Thirutambaleswaram Koli also knows the Keerimalai Naguleswaram Temple of Keerimalai Jaffna, which is one of the oldest Hindu shrines in the northern province of Sri Lanka.
Naguleswaram Kovil Keerimalai was destroyed by the Portuguese during the Portuguese colonial period in Ceylon. Arumuka Navy reconstructed it in 1894. According to Hindu legends, King Rama bathed after killing King Ravana, who kidnapped Princess Sita Devi. Keeramalai Naguleswaram is therefore one of the Ramayana-related sites in Sri Lanka.
Why Visit: Naguleswaram Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Sri Lanka, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Things to Do:
- Temple Visit: Offer prayers and explore the ancient architecture.
- Cultural Insight: Learn about the temple’s history and significance in Hindu culture.
- Festivals: Experience vibrant Hindu festivals and rituals.
Timing: Open daily from 6 am to 7 pm. Traditional attire is recommended.
How to Reach: You can take the morning train to Jaffna station and then use local transport to get to the temple.
Read also: Discover Sri Lanka: Essential Information
5. Thirukonamalai Konesar Temple
It is one of the most famous temples on the east coast of Sri Lanka. It is located in Trincomalee. Here, you can see the stunning and inspiring scenery from all sides of the temple.
This site is also known as the “Kailasa of the South” and is a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus. This temple is one out of five Pancha Ishwarams (abodes of Shiva). The Koneswaram Temple was built to worship Lord Shiva.
The construction of this temple dates back to 400 B.C.E. Later, it was built in the 5th century and then finally in the 18th century. It was considered one of the oldest combinations of architecture and ornamentation.
Why Visit: Thirukonamalai Konesar Temple, also known as Koneswaram Temple, is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Things to Do:
- Temple Tour: Explore the temple complex and its beautiful surroundings.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the ocean from the temple.
- Cultural Experience: Participate in Hindu rituals and ceremonies.
Timing: Open daily from 6 am to 8 pm. Respectful attire is required.
How to Reach: Fort Frederick is the only way to reach the temple. It is located along a path lined with shops. You can also take a bus to the Central Bus Station.
6. Kataragama Temple
Kataragama was initially a small community nestled in the jungle between the ancient and medieval periods. It slowly became a popular pilgrimage destination which attracted many pilgrims.
With the influence of religion, ethnicity, and time, the area’s legends and myths are constantly changing. The worship style has also changed from a Hindu-oriented to a Buddhist orientation due to the change in devotees. The Kataragama temple is one of the ancient temples of Hindus.
The temple complex houses the shrine of Kataragama ‘Deviyo’, a Buddhist guardian deity and Hindu War God Murugan. The complex includes Buddhist temples that Buddhists manage. And, the temples and shrines to Lord Shiva are maintained by the Hindus. The unique feature of Kataragama temples makes it one of the most secular places in Sri Lanka.
Why Visit: Kataragama Temple is a multi-religious complex, sacred to Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims, known for its vibrant festivals and cultural significance.
Things to Do:
- Temple Visit: Offer prayers and explore the diverse religious sites within the complex.
- Festivals: Experience the grand Esala Festival held annually.
- Cultural Insight: Learn about the temple’s significance to different faiths.
Timing: Open daily from 4 am to 10 pm. Traditional attire is recommended.
How to Reach: You can take a bus to Kandy Secretariat Bus Stop and then board it at any Kandy Clock Tower Bus Station or Torrington Bus Station.
7. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara Temple
It is a Buddhist temple. It was built in the fifth century. It is believed that the Buddha visited it on his third trip to Sri Lanka with 500 monks following the 8 years of enlightenment. Since 2007, the temple has been designated an archaeologically protected monument in Sri Lanka.
This designation means that it is of great historical significance for Buddhists and all Sri Lankans. It has a total area of 10 acres. Every year, millions of people visit it, particularly during Duruthu Maha Perehera, held every January at the temple’s hollow Dagoba.
Many people also visit the temple on Poya Day and participate in religious programs. This temple contains many paintings and sculptures that depict various events in the life of Lord Buddha. The stupa is adorned with gold-strung chairs and carpets, which give it a grand aura.
Why Visit: Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is a significant Buddhist temple believed to have been visited by Buddha himself. It’s known for its beautiful murals and historical importance.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Temple: Visit the main shrine and the stupa.
- Learn History: Discover the temple’s rich historical and religious background.
- Photography: Capture the stunning murals and architecture.
Timing: Open daily from 5 am to 10 pm. Respectful attire is required.
How to Reach: You can easily reach here from any corner of the city by bus, taxi, or car.
8. Cave Temple
Dambulla cave temples are a great place to visit if you believe that some of the essential things in the world are hidden from the rest of the world. These temples are hidden from view and contain some of the most stunning paintings and sculptures depicting the Lord Buddha.
Five caves are open to tourists out of the 80. The cave temples are located 150 km and 75 km from Colombo and Kandy. This temple is also listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are believed to be more than 2,700 years old. The caves cover 23,000 feet. It also contains paintings of Lord Vishnu or Ganesha.
Why Visit: The Dambulla Cave Temple is another UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring beautifully preserved cave temples with Buddhist murals and statues.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Caves: Visit the five main caves and admire the ancient frescoes and Buddha statues.
- Learn History: Discover the historical significance of the temple complex.
- Photography: Capture the intricate artwork and serene surroundings.
Timing: Open daily from 7 am to 7 pm. Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.
How to Reach: You can take a bus or taxi from Sigiriya to Dambulla. After that, you can walk for 15 minutes to reach the cave temple complex.
9. Muthiyangana Temple
Muthiyangana Maha Viharaya is also known as Muthiyangana temple. It is a Buddhist temple. It is located 22.7km from Ella. The history of the stupa dates back to the 5th Century BC. It has been a popular attraction for both tourists and pilgrims throughout the country.
Muthiyangana temple is one of the 16 sacred Buddhist temples throughout the country. Legends say that Lord Buddha delivered his sermons at the site where the Muthiyangana temple is now located during his third visit to Sri Lanka.
A tribal leader built it; the stupa was later converted into a temple complex. The stupa and the four Bodhi trees are located on the premises of Muthiyangana Raja Viharaya. Each tree has a unique story. A procession is also held annually at the temple.
Why Visit: Muthiyangana Temple is a sacred Buddhist site in Badulla, believed to have been visited by Buddha.
Things to Do:
- Temple Visit: Offer prayers and explore the temple complex.
- Cultural Insight: Learn about the temple’s significance in Buddhism.
- Photography: Capture the temple’s serene ambiance and architecture.
Timing: Open daily from 6 am to 8 pm. Respectful attire is required.
How to Reach: It is located about 20km from Ella in Badulla. You can take a train or bus from Ella.
10. Munneswaram Temple
Munneswaram Temple has been in existence since at most 1000 C.E. The Hindus of India attach great importance to this temple. It is associated with the Indian epic Ramayana and its hero-King Rama.
However, it is one of the five oldest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple complex consists of five temples. The most famous temple is the Munneswaram temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The remaining temples are dedicated to Ayyanayake, Ganesha, and Kali. The temple hosts a festival called Munneswaram. It is a four-week-long event that is attended by Hindu, Buddhist, and Catholic devotees.
Why Visit: Munneswaram Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its historical and cultural significance.
Things to Do:
- Temple Visit: Offer prayers and explore the temple’s ancient architecture.
- Festivals: Experience vibrant Hindu festivals, especially during Navaratri.
- Cultural Experience: Learn about the temple’s significance in Hinduism.
Timing: Open daily from 6 am to 8 pm. Traditional attire is recommended.
How to Reach: It is best to reach the Colombo airport, from there you can take a taxi to reach the Munneswaram temple.
Conclusion
All these temples are symbols of religious devotion and practice. The fact that they have been built so long ago by a legendary figure is a source of immense appeal for all who visit the land. You can visit the various temples of Sri Lanka either during your holiday or while you stay at home. You will indeed be drawn into the rich history and spirituality of the place.
Take a look at the most well-known Sri Lanka packages.
- 7 Nights 8 Days Sri Lanka Tour Itinerary
- 10 Days Srilanka with Maldives Tour Package
- 6 Nights 7 Days Sri Lanka Tour Itinerary
- 10 Days Sri Lanka Culture Tour
FAQs about Temples in Sri Lanka:
1. What are the 5 famous Shiva temples in Sri Lanka?
The 5 famous Shiva temples in Sri Lanka are Koneswaram Temple, Munneswaram Temple, Thiruketheeswaram Temple, Naguleswaram Temple, and Kokkatticholai Easwaran Temple.
2. Which are some ancient temples in Sri Lanka?
Some ancient temples in Sri Lanka include the Dambulla Cave Temple, Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
3. What is the most beautiful temple in Sri Lanka?
The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is considered one of the most beautiful temples in Sri Lanka.
4. Which temples in Colombo are beautiful to visit?
Beautiful temples in Colombo include Gangaramaya Temple, Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, and Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam.
5. What is the best temple to visit in Sri Lanka?
The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is widely regarded as the best temple to visit in Sri Lanka.
6. Which is the biggest Hindu temple in Sri Lanka?
The Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil in Jaffna is the biggest Hindu temple in Sri Lanka.
7. What is the largest temple in Sri Lanka?
The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is one of the largest and most significant temples in Sri Lanka.
8. What is a cave temple in Sri Lanka?
The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a famous cave temple in Sri Lanka.
9. How far is Colombo from Kathirkamam Murugan Temple?
The distance from Colombo to Kathirkamam Murugan Temple (Kataragama) is approximately 288 km, and it takes about 6-7 hours by road.
10. Which is the most famous Hindu temple in Sri Lanka?
The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is the most famous Hindu temple in Sri Lanka.
11. What are some famous temples in Sri Lanka?
Famous temples in Sri Lanka include the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo, and Koneswaram Temple in Trincomalee.
12. What is the old name of Sri Lanka?
The old name of Sri Lanka is Ceylon.
13. How many temples are there in Sri Lanka?
There are hundreds of temples in Sri Lanka, including Hindu, Buddhist, and other religious temples.
14. What are some famous Murugan temples in Sri Lanka?
Famous Murugan temples in Sri Lanka include Kathirkamam Murugan Temple, Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, and Thirukkovil Murugan Temple.
15. Which is the oldest temple in Sri Lanka?
The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is considered one of the oldest and most revered temples in Sri Lanka.
