We're in a Social
We're in a Social
7th Sep. 2023
Sri Lanka, with its rich history and multicultural heritage, is a land where spirituality and devotion are woven into the very fabric of life. From ancient temples to serene monasteries, the country offers a remarkable journey through various faiths. Let’s delve into the religious diversity that defines Sri Lanka.
Let’s begin with one of the most venerated temples throughout history, the Sri Dalada Maligawa or more commonly known as the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Within the premises of this age-old temple is the left tooth of Lord Buddha which was brought into the country by Princess Hemamala & Prince Dantha millenniums ago. The Sacred Tooth had since then travelled to the main kingdoms of Sri Lanka through history and its last home is the kingdom of Kandy which is also the last kingdom of Sri Lanka. The religious significance of this temple is not the only reason it is popular among tourists. The Sri Dalada Maligawa is also an architectural marvel with intricate carvings on the stone pillars of the assembly halls. A museum within the complex allows visitors to learn more about the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
Sri Pada, Adams Peak and Samanala Kanda all refer to the colossal mountain with a massive footprint on its surface. This footprint is believed by Buddhists to be Lord Buddha’s while Catholics believe that it was Adam’s. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the hike up to the summit of the mountain which also serves as a religious retreat which must be taken up with no less than a positive approach from start to finish. The season begins in December and continues until May, the trail begins in the wee hours of the night and takes you to the top at just the right time to witness the brilliant sunrise from the mountain top which is a blessed sight indeed!
Standing on a cliff by the seaside of Trincomalee in the far east of Sri Lanka, Koneswaram Temple is deemed a prominent part of history in the country. Constructed in 400 BC, this Kovil, known to be one of the major Pancha Ishwaram (five abodes of Lord Shiva) was protected by the many kingdoms such as the Anuradhapura Kingdom, the Chola Empire, Pandyan Kingdom, and the Jaffna Kingdom. Unfortunately, in the 17th century, this temple once called the “Temple of a Thousand Pillars” was partly destroyed by the Portuguese and was later rebuilt during the rule of the Dutch and British. The temple is adorned with colourful sculptures of Lord Shiva, the Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesh and is visited by Hindu devotees from across the world. Right below the cliff is also a dive sight with treasures of the past to be explored on an exciting dive.
Located in the heart of Colombo, Saint Anthony’s Church is believed to be a miraculous church by not only the Catholics but Buddhists and Hindus as well. Many people from all walks of life visit this church to pray and make vows to this saint. Devotees often light candles and purchase religious items from the little boutique on the church premises. The church was destroyed in 2019 due to terrorist bombings that took place on Easter Sunday, however, it was rebuilt with a small section dedicated to the memory of those who lost lives in the chaos.
Constructed in 1908 in Pettah, the very hub of Colombo, this mosque, officially known as Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque has a unique architectural style that brings in many visitors. Both men and women can enter the mosque so long as they are dressed in conservative attire with a scarf that covers the head for ladies. It is called the Red Mosque because of its striking red and white exterior which is very unusual from the architectural design of a normal which consists of domes and minarets. These are not the only some of the main religious sites you ought to visit in Sri Lanka. However, the country holds many other historic and religious sites that simply cannot be missed. Discover more with So Sri Lanka today!
