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Colorful decorations at the entrance of Mahiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya

Mahiyangana Raja Maha Vihara – A beautiful and peaceful sacred temple.

Mahiyangana Raja Maha Vihara – A beautiful and peaceful sacred temple.

✈️ Why should you visit Sigiriya?

Mahiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, revered as the location of Lord Buddha’s first visit to the island and the enshrining of his hair relic in the country’s first stupa.
  • Site of Buddha’s First Visit: The temple is considered the site of Gautama Buddha’s first visit to Sri Lanka (then Ceylon). This occurred in the 6th century BC, nine months after his enlightenment.
  • Enshrines Hair Relics and Neck Bone: The temple’s dagoba (stupa) is sacred because it enshrines a handful of the Buddha’s hair relics, given to the god Saman. Later, it also enshrined the cervical spine (neck bone) relic of the Buddha.
  • First Stupa in Sri Lanka: The structure is believed to be the first stupa built in Sri Lanka, and potentially one of the earliest Buddhist monuments in the world. It was initially built by the god Saman at a height of 12 cubits.
  • One of the Sacred Sites (Solosmasthana): The temple is revered as one of the Solosmasthana, or the 16 most sacred religious sites in Sri Lanka.
  • Historical Site of Subduing Yakshas: According to the Mahavamsa, the Buddha landed at the site (then known as Mahanaga Park) to subdue the Yakshas (local demon tribes). Afterward, he preached the Dhamma to the assembled gods.

Entity

Government

Entrance

Paid

Wheelchair Access

No

Water

Available

Restaurants

Available

Toilets

Available

District: Badulla

Reach

Any vehicle

Road Quality

Good

Public Transport

Available

A panoramic view of Mahiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya temple in Sri Lanka
Peaceful atmosphere at Mahiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya monastery
Traditional Buddhist architecture at Mahiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya
The main stupa of Mahiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya surrounded by green landscape

Guidelines

Respect Religious Practices: This is an active Buddhist temple. Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) and behave respectfully inside temple premises. Remove Footwear: Always take off shoes and hats before entering the temple or sacred areas. Photography Rules: Ask for permission before taking photos, especially inside the temple or near monks. Observe Silence: Keep noise levels low; avoid loud talking or disruptive behaviour. Follow Offerings Etiquette: If making offerings, follow the temple guidelines and place them only in designated areas.