- Shrine of the Sacred Forehead Relic: The temple enshrines the sacred forehead bone of Lord Buddha. It’s the only known site to house this particular relic.
- Historic Prophecy: This temple’s construction fulfilled an ancient prophecy. The prophecy foretold that King Kavantissa would enshrine the sacred forehead relic at this precise location.
- Dhamma-Vijaya (Conquest by Righteousness): King Kavantissa built this stupa to achieve peace. He used a religious strategy, avoiding military conflict with local rulers.
- Archaeological Rarity: It features four carved stone guardstones at the stupa terrace. This is a unique feature not found in any other Sri Lankan temple.
- Location and Natural History: The temple is near a large, ancient lake. The area’s name, Seruwila, comes from the large flocks of “seru” (teals) that once flocked there.
