An ancient Buddhist temple – Kalaniya Raja Maha Viharaya – By Malsha – eLanka
Kalaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is a Buddhist temple located in Kalaniya, a suburb of Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. According to historical records, the temple was built during the reign of King Valagamba in the 1st century BC.
The temple is believed to have been visited by the Buddha during his third visit to Sri Lanka, and it is said that he delivered a sermon at this location. The temple is known for its stupa, which is believed to have been built during the reign of King Dhatusena in the 5th century AD. The stupa is approximately 80 feet (24 meters) in height and has a diameter of about 280 feet (85 meters).
Kalaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is also home to a number of other structures, including a bodhi tree, a relic chamber, and several shrines. The temple attracts a large number of devotees and visitors, particularly during important Buddhist festivals such as Vesak and Poson.
Kalaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Kalaniya, a suburb of Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. According to historical records, the temple was built during the reign of King Valagamba in the 1st century BC.
The temple is believed to have been visited by the Buddha during his third visit to Sri Lanka, and it is said that he delivered a sermon at this location. After the visit of the Buddha, the temple became an important center of Buddhist learning and practice.
During the reign of King Dhatusena in the 5th century AD, the stupa at Kalaniya Raja Maha Viharaya was built. The stupa is believed to have been constructed on the site where the Buddha delivered his sermon. It is approximately 80 feet (24 meters) in height and has a diameter of about 280 feet (85 meters).
Over the centuries, Kalaniya Raja Maha Viharaya has been renovated and expanded by various rulers and benefactors. During the reign of King Parakramabahu II in the 13th century, the temple was renovated and the murals that adorn the walls of the temple were added.
The temple has played an important role in the religious and cultural life of Sri Lanka for over 2,000 years. It continues to be an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, and is also a popular tourist attraction.
Kalaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is known for its rich artistic heritage, which includes a variety of traditional Sri Lankan art forms.
One of the most notable features of the temple is its collection of murals, which were added during the reign of King Parakramabahu II in the 13th century. The murals depict scenes from the Jataka tales, which are stories from the previous lives of the Buddha. The murals are considered to be some of the finest examples of ancient Sinhalese art, and are known for their intricate details and vibrant colors.
The temple is also home to a number of sculptures, including a large statue of the Buddha. The statue is believed to date back to the 9th century, and is notable for its graceful proportions and serene expression.
In addition to these traditional art forms, the temple also features more contemporary artworks. For example, the temple’s entrance gate is adorned with a series of colorful paintings that depict scenes from the life of the Buddha.
Overall, the artistic heritage of Kalaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is an important aspect of the temple’s cultural significance, and is celebrated by both local devotees and visitors from around the world.
Kalaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is located in the town of Kalaniya, which is situated in the western province of Sri Lanka. The temple is located about 14 kilometers north of Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, and is easily accessible by road.
The temple is situated on a sprawling complex that covers several acres of land. The main stupa at the temple is approximately 80 feet (24 meters) in height and has a diameter of about 280 feet (85 meters). The stupa is surrounded by several smaller stupas, as well as a number of shrines, chapels, and other buildings.
The temple complex is situated in a lush, tropical setting, with trees and gardens providing a peaceful and serene environment. The nearby Kelani River, one of the major rivers in Sri Lanka, also adds to the natural beauty of the area.
Overall, the geography of Kalaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is an important aspect of the temple’s significance, providing a tranquil and serene setting for worship, contemplation, and reflection.
