Tissamaharama Raja Maha Viharaya

The Tissamaharama Raja Maha Viharaya is the main Buddhist temple of Tissamaharama, the old capital of the southern kingdom of Ruhuna. Its great white stupa is the largest in the south of the island and can be seen across the paddy fields and the Tissa reservoir. For many Sri Lankans, it is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the country.

History

The chronicles link the temple to King Kavantissa, father of King Dutugemunu, in the 2nd century BC, though some sources credit an earlier king, Mahanaga, with founding it and Kavantissa with expanding it. Tradition holds that the Buddha visited the site. For centuries it was a centre of Buddhist learning in the south. The stupa was restored in modern times.

What you see

The stupa stands on a wide terrace, surrounded by shrines, a Bodhi tree and an image house. Pilgrims in white bring flowers and walk around the stupa, especially in the evening. Old brick ruins of the wider monastery lie in the fields around it.

How long it takes

Thirty minutes to an hour.

When to go

Late afternoon and early evening are best: the light on the stupa is warm, it is cooler, and there are more worshippers. Full moon Poya days are especially busy and atmospheric.

Getting there

The temple is in Tissamaharama town, close to the Tissa reservoir, and about 30 minutes from the Yala park entrance at Palatupana.

Practical tips

• Wear white or light, modest clothes covering shoulders and knees.
• Remove shoes and hats on the terrace; the stone gets hot by day.
• Walk around the stupa clockwise.

Nearby, see Yattala Vehera and Kataragama and Kiri Vehera, or plan a Yala safari. See things to do around Yala and hotels near Yala.