



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.
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
Kotte temple can be called as a good religious place that is worth visiting.This temple holds a big procession every year with tuskers and elephants.Traditional And Historical Place.The Kotte temple... Read More also exists in history as a place where Dalada was taken care.I recommend to visit this temple it will give pleasure to your mind.
The 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.
Simple and calm place, I went with my kids, respected Harmudurus guides me very well, I love majestic elephants in my country and very aware about kotte Raja, I passed... Read More this temple many occasions and this is my first visit and it will continue
Peaceful 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.
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.
Nice place. The big monk is sincere and friendly. We went to take photos with the Kotte Raja elephant.
Kotte Rajamaha Vihara is a beautiful ancient Buddhist temple and archaeological site right in the heart of Sri Lanka's capital but once you step inside, you’d never guess you're in... Read More such a busy area. It’s calm, peaceful, and has this really charming atmosphere that’s perfect for meditation or just a quiet moment to yourself. One of my favorite spots is under the Na Bodhi tree there's something truly serene about it. Even though the city buzzes around it, the temple grounds feel like a whole different world. I highly recommend visiting early in the morning. The vibe is extra peaceful then, and it’s a great way to start your day with some stillness and clarity. Definitely worth a stop if you're in or around Kotte.
Kotte Rajamaha Viharaya. Very old Buddhist Temple in Sri jayawardhanapura Kotte. Very beautiful Annuel pageant held every year in September month. Upasampada Pinkama also take place annually Near to temple there are very old... Read More ancient cave locate in Ananda Sastralaya M.V. premises.
The Kotte Kingdom, a significant chapter in Sri Lanka's history, flourished during the 15th century. It was a period marked by both cultural brilliance and political intrigue, shaping the course... Read More of the island nation. The kingdom's rise began in the late 14th century when Minister Alakesvara established Kotte as a fortress to counter potential invasions from South India. However, it was under the reign of Parakramabahu VI (1412-1467) that Kotte truly blossomed. He moved the capital from Gampola to Kotte in 1415, recognizing its strategic location and natural defenses. Parakramabahu VI's reign was a golden era for Kotte. He successfully unified the island, conquering the Jaffna Kingdom in the north, bringing Sri Lanka under a single rule for the first time in over a century. This period witnessed significant cultural and artistic advancements, with Kotte becoming a center of learning and religious activity. The construction of the Kotte Dalada Maligawa, a temple housing the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, further solidified the kingdom's religious importance. However, the Kotte Kingdom's prosperity was short-lived. Internal strife and external pressures began to erode its power. In 1521, a tragic event known as the "Wijayaba Kollaya" led to the division of the kingdom among the sons of King Vijayabahu VII. This weakened the kingdom and paved the way for further decline. The arrival of the Portuguese in 1505 marked a turning point. Seeking to exploit the region's resources and strategic location, the Portuguese established a foothold in Sri Lanka. They formed alliances with certain Kotte rulers, further destabilizing the kingdom. In 1597, with the death of King Don Juan Dharmapala, the Kotte Kingdom officially ended. The Portuguese, who had been steadily increasing their influence, took control of the kingdom, marking the beginning of a new era in Sri Lankan history. The legacy of the Kotte Kingdom, however, endures. Its capital city, now a suburb of Colombo, still bears witness to its glorious past. The ruins of the ancient city, including the Kotte Dalada Maligawa and the royal palace, offer a glimpse into the grandeur of this bygone era. The Kotte Kingdom's story serves as a reminder of Sri Lanka's rich history and the complex interplay of power, culture, and external influences that shaped its destiny.
This is one of the great place which shows the religious similarity. Because in ancient Kingdom of Kotte, both temple and church was there in same place. Buddhist monks allowed... Read More chiristian prists to start the church in temple land. Buddhist monks looked after Christian prists during the defficult era. But today will anyone trust these incident.
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.

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