Kotmale Mahaweli Maha Seya
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Religious Place
About this Attraction
Kotmale Mahaweli Maha Seya is more than a magnificent stupa; it is a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist traditions and resilience. During my visit, I was inspired by the story of its inception, which is closely tied to the vision of Gamini Dissanayake, a key figure in the Mahaweli Development Project. His idea to construct this monumental stupa was to honour Buddhist heritage and serve as a beacon of hope for those whose lives were profoundly affected by the project.
Standing Tall Among Giants
As I stood before the towering structure of Kotmale Mahaweli Maha Seya, its impressive height of 88 meters took my breath away. It is the second-largest stupa in Sri Lanka, standing proudly behind the ancient Ruwanweli Maha Seya. The sheer scale of the stupa made me reflect on the country’s ability to blend ancient architectural traditions with modern engineering marvels.
A Tribute to Lost Temples and Resilience
One of the most poignant aspects of Kotmale Mahaweli Maha Seya is its role as a commemorative monument. I learned that over 50 temples were submerged due to the Mahaweli Development Project, displacing countless communities. Walking around the stupa, I could feel its purpose as a symbol of remembrance and resilience, honouring the sacrifices made during the nation’s journey toward modernization.
A Journey Through Time
The stupa’s story began with President J laying its foundation stone. R. Jayewardene on March 20, 1983. The ceremony marked the start of a decades-long project that culminated in its opening on June 20, 2016, by President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe. Reflecting on this timeline, I sincerely appreciate the dedication and effort of those who brought this vision to life.
Architectural Marvel and Spiritual Haven
Designed by the renowned engineer Vidya-Jyothi and Dr A.N.S. Kulasinghe, the stupa is a masterpiece of modern engineering infused with ancient wisdom. Its design preserves the traditional stupa architecture while seamlessly incorporating contemporary elements. As I circled the stupa, I admired its structural beauty and marvelled at how it bridged the past and the present.
A Center for Faith and Meditation
Kotmale Mahaweli Maha Seya is not merely a monumental structure but a living, breathing part of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist practices. During my visit, I witnessed devotees in prayer, meditation, and quiet reflection, reinforcing its role as a hub for spiritual gatherings. The tranquillity of the stupa and its surroundings provided me with a moment of introspection and peace.
Reflections on My Visit
Visiting Kotmale Mahaweli Maha Seya was a profound experience. It stands not just as a symbol of architectural brilliance but as a reminder of resilience, faith, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage amidst progress.
I highly recommend visiting this iconic stupa if you ever find yourself near the Kotmale region. It’s a journey that leaves you inspired, humbled, and deeply connected to Sri Lanka’s spiritual and cultural legacy.
Best Time to Visit
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This is at its finest from January to April, providing an ideal setting for unforgettable experiences during these pleasant months.
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Year's busiest month is April
Required time for Explore this Attraction
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Visitors typically require around 1 hour to explore this attraction and enjoy its key highlights.
Highlights
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Bike Parking
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Free Entry
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Parking Available
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Toilets Available