Kotte Rajamaha Vihara

Buddhist temple

Secure Parking

Watching Time : 2 or 3 Hours

Eco Friendly Environment
Amazing Experience
The history of Kotte Raja Maha Vihara dates back to the Kingdom of Kotte as described by the poetic literature (Sandesha Kavya) during the golden era of literature in the 15th Century. During the reign of King Parakramabahu VI (1415–1467), the construction of the temple was begun and completed in all aspects with the royal patronage. There was a monastery at this location during the Kotte Period, but only a few stone pillars remain today. The temple features paintings from the early British
period, including one of Queen Victoria, along with other British influences. In 1887, the temple received a donation from the British Government to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, and the modernizing of the paintings leading to the image house with a statue of the reclining Buddha were commissioned that same year. The temple has also been described in the poetic literature (Sandesha Kavya) of the era.
A squatting pan from the Kotte Period lies in the garden, and an old door frame with Dutch architectural features is fixed to an older building. Behind the temple, there is a laterite boulder adorned with the Makara Thorana (Dragon Gate). This site is the highest point in the area, which is why Sītāvaka Rājasiṁha camped here during his attack on the Kotte Fortress. Round stones, believed to have been used as cannonballs by the Portuguese to attack Rājasiṁha’s army, were found here.
During the Sinhala Kingdom, the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha was traditionally kept near the king's palace for protection. However, it was moved annually to a temple for public worship for three months. Kotte Rajamaha Vihara was where the Tooth Relic was kept during the Kotte Period. The stone pillars at the Vihara premises, as well as many artefacts in and the surrounding area going back to the 15th century, confirm the historical significance of the Kotte Rajamaha Vihara. Much before the Kandyan Sri Dalada Perahara, the historic parade of the Kotte Raja Maha Vihara has continued as an annual event from the 15th Century to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha.
Opening Hours
Sunday : 8.30 AM – 9.00 PM
Monday : 8.30 AM – 9.00 PM
Tuesday : 8.30 AM – 9.00 PM
Wednesday : 8.30 AM – 9.00 PM
Thursday : 8.30 AM – 9.00 PM
Friday : 8.30 AM – 9.00 PM
Saturday : 8.30 AM – 9.00 PM
Tour Map
Gallery
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The history of Kotte Raja Maha Vihara dates back to the Kingdom of Kotte. During the reign of King Parakumbha VI (1415-1467) the construction of the temple was begun and... Read More completed in all aspects with the royal patronage. King built the temple closer to his royal palace, to doing the necessary duties to the Sangha community. During the Dutch presence in the country Kotte temple was completely destroyed by them. The temple was re-established in 1818 after the destroyed temple was found out by Ven. Pilane Buddha Rakkitha thero. However most of the constructions and artifacts of the original temple had been destroyed and taken away by the foreigners leaving only a few ruins at the place. It is said that only some ruins of the present Stupa, parts of Katharagama Devalaya, and some stone pillars were remained in the Vihara premises.
Roshan Sanjaya Thrimanna
April 25, 2019 -
Kotte Rajamaha Viharaya – A Temple Rich in History Situated in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, Kotte Rajamaha Viharaya is another ancient Buddhist temple with deep historical roots. It played an important role... Read More during the Kotte Kingdom period and continues to be a significant religious site today. The temple’s stupa, image house, and beautifully sculpted statues create an atmosphere of devotion and tranquility. Many locals visit this temple for meditation and religious observances, making it a perfect place for those seeking inner peace.
Ch Creation Moratuwa
March 28, 2025 -
Calm and quite place with peaceful environment. You can relax your mind in the middle of busy commercial capital.
Piyori Niranjan Obergfell Cooray
April 25, 2023Peaceful temple even though we went on a crowded vesak day. Praying areas were smaller but had large grounds where people could roam and sit. They were clean and well... Read More maintained. Also liked that there were praying areas for some other faiths as well. Parking was the only issue.
Ravindu Ranaweera
April 25, 2019 -
Temple has been built during the kotte period with the royal patronage and venerated by the royal court. The temple completed in all aspects described in details in the poetic... Read More literature( Sandesha Kavya) of the era. Prince sapumal has made a vow to the "Na" (iron wood) tree, prior to his departure to capture jaffna peninsula. The temple has been completely destroyed by Dutch and subsequently ven.Pilane Buddha Rakkitha in the year 1818 has rebuilt to include new sections and the temple was re established. Among the new constructions temple and the entrance doors are considered to be particular interests.
Shehan Ransara
April 25, 2019 -
Very peaceful and nice, has a historical significance (read about Kotte Kingdom before). There are 2 elephants living! And all in the middle of the city! One of the buildings was... Read More under construction during my visit, so the place should become even nicer soon!
Natalya de Silva
April 25, 2024The Kotte Sri Rajamaha Viharaya, located in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, is a historic Buddhist temple with profound cultural and religious significance. Established during the reign of King Parakramabahu VI (1412–1467)... Read More of the Kotte Kingdom, it served as a center for Buddhist worship and learning. The temple played a vital role during this period, embodying the kingdom’s spiritual and architectural heritage. One of the temple’s most celebrated events is the Kotte Sri Dalada Perahera, a grand procession honoring the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. During the Kotte Kingdom, the Tooth Relic was housed here temporarily, making the temple a revered site. The Perahera was a spectacular ceremonial event, showcasing elaborate rituals, traditional drumming, dancing, and beautifully adorned elephants. It was a significant cultural highlight, symbolizing the king’s devotion to Buddhism and the kingdom’s religious identity. Today, the Kotte Sri Dalada Perahera is revived annually, maintaining its grandeur and drawing crowds of devotees and tourists alike. It serves as a tribute to the temple’s historical legacy and keeps alive the traditions of the Kotte Kingdom. The vibrant event reflects Sri Lanka’s rich cultural tapestry, blending history, religion, and artistry. In addition to the Perahera, the temple features remarkable architectural elements such as a majestic stupa, ancient stone carvings, and moonstones. Archaeological treasures, including inscriptions and frescoes, offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship and devotion of the Kotte era. The Kotte Sri Rajamaha Viharaya remains a spiritual haven and a historical landmark. Its peaceful ambiance and vibrant traditions, especially the Kotte Sri Dalada Perahera, make it a must-visit for anyone seeking a deeper connection with Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.
Movindu Shenai
December 25, 2024 -
If you are interested in the history and fully fledged culture of Sri Lanka, you might want to visit the Kotte Rajamaha Vihara, a historic Buddhist temple situated in Sri... Read More Jayawardenepura Kotte, the administrative capital of the country. The temple is located near the Pita Kotte junction on Kotte road. The Kotte Rajamaha Vihara dates back to the 15th century, when it was built by King Parakramabahu VI, who ruled the Kingdom of Kotte from 1410 to 1467. The king constructed the temple near his royal palace, to offer his patronage and support to the Sangha community. Moreover, the temple also hosts an annual perahera (procession) in honour of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which is held in August or September. The perahera features elephants, dancers, drummers, and other performers, who parade along the streets of Kotte with colourful costumes and decorations. The Kotte Rajamaha Vihara is a place where you can experience the rich heritage and spirituality of Sri Lanka. It is open daily, and admission is free. You can also make donations or offerings to support the temple and its activities. If you visit the temple, make sure to dress modestly and respectfully, and remove your shoes before entering any building. You can also join the devotees in chanting, meditating, or offering flowers and incense to the Lord Buddha.
Leon Mudalige
April 25, 2024The temple grounds exude a sense of peace with ancient trees, beautifully maintained gardens, and traditional architecture. The main shrine features intricate murals and Buddha statues that reflect the artistic... Read More and religious heritage of Sri Lanka. The presence of a sacred Bo Tree adds to the spiritual ambiance, drawing devotees and visitors alike for meditation and prayer.
Thilanka D
March 25, 2025 -
Ancient Buddhist Temple and archeological site situated in the capital of Srilanka. Calm and Charming environment for religious activities.
Dulaj Liyanage
January 25, 2025Peaceful and calm temple located in Kotte. I went here recently in Poson Poya Day after long years. Kotte Raja Maha Vihara is a historic buddhist temple located in Sri... Read More Jayawardhenepura Kotte (Near the historical building calls Gal Ambalama at Pita Kotte Junction). Praying areas are bit smaller and its getting packed when crowded ( Specially on Poya Days). But the temple area is spreaded over a large area when people can find a place to sit and do prayers. Now there are large area for parking as the soceity has taken a land and reserved it for vehicle parking for total free.
Ravindu Anagiyadda
April 25, 2024