Bellanwila Raja Maha Viharaya
Located around 12 Kms south of Colombo, Bellanvila Raja Maha Viharaya , attracts many Buddhist devotees and Visitors. The Sacred Bo tree of the Temple is believed to be one of the first offshoots of the Jaya Siri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura. The Annual Esala Perehera held in August or September attracts many locals and foreign visitors alike. Bellanwila is mentioned in the literary works of the 15th century, when Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte was the capital of the county. There are many recent additions to the temple such as the shrines dedicated to popular deities of Sri Lanka such a s Vishnu , Katharagama , Saman , Natha and Pattini. They are situated around the Bo Tree, depicting the influence of Polonnaruwa period. The Main Shrine which is referred to as the Budu Ge adorns a set of Murals that adorns the inner walls, recently installed and painted by renowned artist Somabandu Vidyapathy. These depict different stages of Buddha’s life and his path to enlightenment. The Esala Perahara of...
