The Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya is a Buddhist temple said to have been constructed during the Anuradhapura Kingdom circa the 3rd century B.C.
Lush with History
The Bo tree at the temple is said to be one of the 32 saplings that were distributed from the original Sri Maha Bodhi which was a cutting from the tree under which Buddha is said to have attained nirvana.
There is written evidence in the bodhiwamsa; a chronicle of the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka that the temple may have been built during the reign of Sri Sangabodhi Parakramabahu of Jayawardenapura Kotte. The exact dates have been obscured by history as the temple fell into neglect during the Portuguese colonial era.
Lush in Nature
The temple can be seen in under an hour so if you are staying at one of the Colombo hotels you could easily squeeze it into your schedule. The Bellanwila Raja Maha Viharaya is under 15 minutes’ drive from Berjaya Hotel Colombo.
The area surrounding the temple is home to the Bellanwila Park and Weras Lake, so the temple remains in a relaxing and beautiful cocoon shrouded in trees. The temple features some breath-taking murals and statues of Buddha in various poses that probably date back to ancient times. It is wonderful for a relaxing afternoon exploring and learning about history.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+
