Buddhist flags fluttering around Somawathi Raja Maha Viharaya

Somawathi Raja Maha Viharaya -The Uncovering of Beautiful History and Legends

Somawathi Raja Maha Viharaya -The Uncovering of Beautiful History and Legends

✈️ Why should you visit Sigiriya?

Somawathi Raja Maha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple and stupa in Sri Lanka, revered for reportedly enshrining the right canine tooth relic of the Buddha and situated amidst the wildlife of Somawathiya National Park.
  • Enshrines a Rare Tooth Relic: The stupa is believed to enshrine the right canine tooth relic of the Buddha, making it one of only two known tooth relics of Lord Buddha existing in the world.
  • Witness to Unexplained Phenomena: Thousands of pilgrims have consistently witnessed extraordinary occurrences, such as beams of light emanating from the stupa, the sky changing to a yellowish color, and even the sound of drum beats from within the stupa.
  • Deep Historical Roots: Somawathiya is significantly older than other prominent stupas like Ruwanwelisaya or Jetavanaramaya, with its origins attributed to the reign of King Kavantissa in the 2nd century BCE and later expanded by King Kanittha Tissa.
  • Resilience Against Adversity: The site has a history of both natural decay and deliberate attacks, including an LTTE assault in 1987, yet it has been repeatedly restored and remains a significant place of worship.
  • Located in a Wild Natural Setting: Situated deep within the Somawathiya National Park, the stupa’s remote location adds to its mystique and presents a unique experience for pilgrims amidst a jungle infested with elephants and other wild animals.

Entity

Government

Entrance

Free

Wheelchair Access

Yes

Water

Available

Restaurants

Available

Toilets

Available

District: Polonnaruwa

Reach

Any vehicle

Road Quality

Good

Public Transport

Available

Historic Buddhist temple in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka
Sacred stupa at Somawathi temple under clear blue sky
Somawathi Raja Maha Viharaya surrounded by lush greenery
White stupa of Somawathi Viharaya glowing in daylight

Guidelines

Dress Modestly and Respectfully: Wear white or light-colored clothing. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Avoid tight, short, or revealing outfits as it is a place of worship. Maintain Silence and Peaceful Behavior: Refrain from playing music, laughing loudly, or disturbing those who are meditating or worshipping.