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Ancient temple pillars and carvings at Delgamuwa Raja Maha Vihara

Delgamuwa Raja Maha Vihara: Experience beautiful serenity

Delgamuwa Raja Maha Vihara: Experience beautiful serenity

✈️ Why should you visit Sigiriya?

Delgamuwa Rajamaha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka renowned as the secret hiding place of the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha during the Portuguese rule.
  • Hiding Place of the Sacred Tooth Relic: The temple is famous for being the place where the sacred tooth relic of Buddha was hidden for over 40 years during the Portuguese invasion.
  • Historical Significance: The temple has a history dating back to the Sitawaka Kingdom, and it played a crucial role in protecting the country’s Buddhist heritage during the Portuguese rule.
  • Kurahan Grinding Stone: The sacred tooth relic was hidden inside a Kurahan (millet) grinding stone, which can still be seen at the temple today.
  • Role in Buddhist Heritage: After being protected here, the sacred tooth relic was returned to Kandy by King Vimaladharmasuriya I, where it remains today in the Temple of the Tooth.
  • Destroyed and Robbed: The temple was robbed and demolished by the Portuguese after the sacred relic was removed, showing its importance and the threats it faced during colonial times.

Entity

Government

Entrance

Free

Wheelchair Access

No

Water

Available

Restaurants

Available

Toilets

Available

District: Ratnapura

Reach

Any vehicle

Road Quality

Good

Public Transport

Available

Panoramic view of Delgamuwa Raja Maha Vihara temple complex
Historical Buddhist paintings on temple walls at Delgamuwa Raja Maha Vihara
Historical stone carvings inside Delgamuwa Raja Maha Vihara temple
Ancient Buddha statue at Delgamuwa Raja Maha Vihara in Sri Lanka

Guidelines

Contribution : Support preservation by donating modestly at the official temple donation box rather than to individuals approaching you. Historical Awareness : Learn that this temple safeguarded the Sacred Tooth Relic inside a grinding stone during Portuguese invasions — knowing this will deepen your visit. Photography Restrictions : Always ask permission before taking photos. Do not pose with your back to Buddha statues or sacred relics.