Being a multi-cultural and a multi-ethnic nation, Sri Lanka is an island that dazzles with diversity. There are four main religions in Sri Lanka and each has their own set of religious monuments and sites which also come in as major travel destinations. If you are planning to visit Sri Lanka any time soon, here are a few religious sites that you should not miss visiting,
Sri Pada
Sri Lanka is a nation where people of different religions and ethnic backgrounds live together in absolute harmony and there is no better place to see this than Sri Pada – a sacred pilgrimage site located atop a mountain. Also known as the Adams Peak by Christians and Sivanolipatha Malai by Hindus, this is a site that is revered by people of all four religions of the island. Each religious group have their own reason as to why this site is sacred and they harmoniously share this site respecting each other’s beliefs and values. Even if you are a person who is not seeking for spiritual wisdom, the site is popular as a popular hiking destination and it offers some of the best sunrise sceneries on the island.
Daladha Maligawa
Located amidst lush mountains and surreal landscapes lies an ancient city known by the name Kandy. This city houses one of the most revered sites in Buddhism – a site where the tooth relic of Lord Buddha is kept. The site was once a palace and now a revered temple. Being regarded as one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka, to study and learn about Buddhism, visiting here will indeed be a surreal experience!
Thirukoneswaram
Thirukoneswawram is a classical medieval Hindu temple, the religious site is dedicated to Lord Shiva – who is revered as the supreme being in Hinduism. The temple complex features towering spires adorned with intricately carved sculptures from ancient Hindu mythology. There are several inner sanctums within the temple each having their own deity.Truly Sri Lanka – a popular travel website states that the interior of the temple features an inexplicably surreal ambience and exploring the site will indeed be a tranquil experience!
Red Mosque
Renowned for its stunning architecture and its immaculate presence, the red mosque is one of the most beautiful Islamic monuments in Sri Lanka. The mosque is open for visitors but bear in mind that visitors should be dressed modestly covering their shoulders and knees before entering the site. Also, women should have their heads covered with a scarf or a shawl while visiting the mosque.
Churches
Christianity was brought in to the island by the European colonisers who ruled the nation for nearly four and a half centuries. They have built numerous churches around the island and each of them boasts a unique architectural design. Some feature a Victorian architectural accent, some a neoclassical outlook and some feature a gothic architectural flair. St Lucia’s Cathedral, St Sabestian’s church, St. Mary’s Cathedral – Jaffna and National Shrine of Our Lady of Madu are some of the popular churches that you must pay a visit during your time in Sri Lanka.
