Anugurukaramulla Raja Maha Viharaya | Negombo

About this Attraction

I had heard much about the Angurukaramulla Raja Maha Viharaya in Negombo, but nothing prepared me for the awe-inspiring experience of visiting this sacred Buddhist temple. Known locally as Bodhirajarama Maha Viharaya, this temple is more than just a place of worship—it’s a living tapestry of Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.

First Impressions: The Grand Entrance

The moment I stepped through the temple’s entrance, I was met with the majestic sight of a 6-meter-tall seated Buddha statue. The statue’s serene expression radiated peace and wisdom, instantly calming my mind.

The entrance itself was uniquely captivating—a gigantic dragon’s mouth symbolizing the temple's protection from evil forces. Walking through it, I couldn’t help but feel like I was stepping into a sacred world where history, art, and spirituality intertwined.

The Pilima Ge: Stepping into the Past

Inside the Image Room (Pilima Ge), my senses were overwhelmed by the vivid murals that covered every inch of the walls and ceiling.

The murals depicted scenes from the Buddha’s life—from Prince Siddhartha's renunciation to his enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. I was particularly fascinated by the Jataka tales painted along the corridor walls, each narrating a moral lesson from the Buddha's previous lives.

The Sleeping Buddha: A Symbol of Serenity

A few steps further, I encountered the impressive statue of the Reclining Buddha.

The statue's peaceful demeanour and the intricate detailing of the robes made it feel almost lifelike. I observed pilgrims offering flowers and lighting oil lamps, their whispers of prayers blending with the temple's tranquil atmosphere.

I sat silently before the sleeping Buddha, feeling an unspoken connection to the calm and compassion it represented.

The Corridor of Kings: A Journey Through Sri Lanka's History

One of the temple’s most surprising attractions was the Corridor of Kings. Lining the walls were life-sized statues of Sri Lanka’s monarchs, from King Vijaya, the first ruler of the island, to Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the last king of Kandy.

Each statue seemed to tell a story of leadership, struggle, and resilience. I stood before King Parakramabahu the Great, marvelling at how centuries-old tales of power and wisdom were preserved in this unassuming temple.

Hidden Treasures: Ancient Books and Murals

The inner sanctum revealed more than spiritual art.

In a small chamber, I discovered centuries-old, meticulously preserved ola-leaf manuscripts. The monk guiding us explained how these texts contained Buddhist teachings, medicinal knowledge, and historical records—a priceless glimpse into Sri Lanka's ancient past.

The murals here felt different—darker and more intense, perhaps a subtle reminder of life’s impermanence.

Moments of Reflection: The Sacred Bo Tree

Stepping out of the temple, I made my way to the Bodhi tree—a sacred fig tree grown from a sapling of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura.

Sitting beneath its shade, with the rustling leaves echoing centuries of prayers, I felt a deep sense of peace.

The mix of Buddhist devotees, local Muslim families, and Catholic visitors underscored Negombo’s community's beautiful diversity.

Tips for Future Visitors

1. Visit Early Morning: The temple grounds are calmer and less crowded in the morning hours.
2. Respect the Dress Code: Cover shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
3. Explore Slowly: The murals and statues deserve unhurried attention.
4. Talk to the Monks: They often share stories and insights about the temple’s history.
5. Bring an Offering: Flowers or incense enhance the spiritual experience.

Final Reflections: A Temple Beyond Time

Visiting Angurukaramulla Raja Maha Viharaya was more than a sightseeing trip—a journey through history, art, and spirituality.

The murals whispered ancient stories, the Buddha statues radiated peace, and the Corridor of Kings connected me to the island’s royal past.

I glanced back at the dragon’s mouth entrance as I left the temple.

It felt like exiting a portal—leaving behind a world where time stands still and spirituality remains eternal.

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