Things To Do

Sri Lanka’s rich religious heritage is deeply intertwined with its history and culture, making the island a spiritual destination for travelers. As a multi-religious country, it is home to various sacred sites that reflect the diverse faiths practiced by its people, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity. Sri Lanka’s religious landmarks, from ancient temples and monasteries to colonial churches and mosques, offer visitors a glimpse into the island’s spiritual heart.

Here are some key religious locations in Sri Lanka:

1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Kandy): One of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world, this temple houses a tooth relic of the Buddha. Located in the royal city of Kandy, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It attracts thousands of pilgrims, especially during the annual Esala Perahera festival, which celebrates the relic with grand processions.
2. Anuradhapura Sacred City: The ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to some of the most important Buddhist stupas and monasteries. Highlights include the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Jetavanaramaya, and the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, which is said to be a sapling from the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.
3. Dambulla Cave Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dambulla is a complex of rock-cut caves adorned with over 150 Buddha statues and murals depicting Buddhist teachings. The temple has been a place of worship for more than 2,000 years and remains a key religious site for Buddhists in Sri Lanka.
4. Kataragama: A significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims, Kataragama is revered for its Kataragama Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan (Skanda). The town sees thousands of devotees, especially during the annual Kataragama festival.
5. Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil (Jaffna): One of the most important Hindu temples in Sri Lanka, Nallur Kovil is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is known for its elaborate festivals, particularly the Nallur Festival, which draws large crowds from across the island.
6. St. Anthony’s Church (Colombo): A famous Catholic shrine in the heart of Colombo, St. Anthony’s Church is visited by both Christians and non-Christians seeking blessings. It is a testament to Sri Lanka’s Christian heritage, influenced by Portuguese and Dutch colonization.
7. Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Colombo): Known for its striking red-and-white brick architecture, this mosque is one of the oldest and most prominent Islamic places of worship in Sri Lanka. Located in the bustling Pettah district, it is a landmark of Colombo’s Islamic heritage.

Sri Lanka’s religious diversity is celebrated through these sacred sites, each offering unique insights into the island’s spiritual traditions. These places are not only important for worship but also serve as cultural symbols that embody Sri Lanka’s harmonious coexistence of different faiths.