Nestled in the heart of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, the Kotte Raja Maha Vihara is a serene sanctuary of historical and spiritual significance. This sacred Buddhist temple, known locally as "කෝට්ටේ රජ මහා විහාරය," is a cherished relic of Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage. Situated in the Western province, this temple stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Buddhism in the region. Its location near the historic Pita Kotte Gal Ambalama, at the crossroads of Kotte Road, adds to its historical charm. Formally recognized by the Government as an archaeological site on May 17, 2013, under the government Gazette number 1811, this temple is not just a place of worship but a living museum of Sri Lanka's past. Stepping onto its grounds, you'll be enveloped by a sense of peace and tranquility. The Kotte Raja Maha Vihara's well-preserved architecture, adorned with intricate details, transports visitors to a bygone era. The ambiance is a testament to the care and reverence with which this temple has been maintained. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone in search of a serene environment, this temple offers a harmonious blend of all these elements. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the gentle whispers of history and spirituality, making it a truly special destination to explore in Sri Lanka.

one of the historic temples in Sri Lanka at kotte... has a long history behind his existence... and has a rich culture built in with so many traditions....

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 maintained. Also liked that there were praying areas for some other faiths as well. Parking was the only issue.

Very peaceful & Calm historical Buddist Temple.It is situated near Pitakotte Junction (Pita kotte Gal Ambalama). King Parakumbha VI built this temple & during the Dutch's time this temple was completely destroyed by them.After that in 1818 the temple was re established after the destroyed temple was found out by Ven.Pilane Buddha Rakkitha thero.

If you are interested in the history and fully fledged culture of Sri Lanka, you might want to visit the Kotte Rajamaha Vihara, a historic Buddhist temple situated in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, the administrative capital of the country. The temple is located near the Pita Kotte junction on Kotte road. The Kotte Rajamaha Vihara dates back to the 15th century, when it was built by King Parakramabahu VI, who ruled the Kingdom of Kotte from 1410 to 1467. The king constructed the temple near his royal palace, to offer his patronage and support to the Sangha community. Moreover, the temple also hosts an annual perahera (procession) in honour of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which is held in August or September. The perahera features elephants, dancers, drummers, and other performers, who parade along the streets of Kotte with colourful costumes and decorations. The Kotte Rajamaha Vihara is a place where you can experience the rich heritage and spirituality of Sri Lanka. It is open daily, and admission is free. You can also make donations or offerings to support the temple and its activities. If you visit the temple, make sure to dress modestly and respectfully, and remove your shoes before entering any building. You can also join the devotees in chanting, meditating, or offering flowers and incense to the Lord Buddha.

Calm and quite place with peaceful environment. You can relax your mind in the middle of busy commercial capital.

One of the historic buddhist temple located in the capital of Sri Lanka, built during the ancient Kotte kingdom. Calm and quite place. Annual perahera is one of key attraction of this temple. There are so many flower shops in front of the temple. Usually get crowded on poya days. If you travel by your own vehicle, parking facility is there inside and outside the temple.

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 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.

Wonderful Temple with king generous knowledgeable Monks. plenty of parking. There's a lot of animals roaming free around the grounds. Peceful. 1000's of parrots come to rest in the evening.

The most historical temple at the Pitakotte area from ancient times. Very religious place and gives your mind peace and harmony.

Peaceful and calm temple located in Kotte. I went here recently in Poson Poya Day after long years. Kotte Raja Maha Vihara is a historic buddhist temple located in Sri Jayawardhenepura Kotte (Near the historical building calls Gal Ambalama at Pita Kotte Junction). Praying areas are bit smaller and its getting packed when crowded ( Specially on Poya Days). But the temple area is spreaded over a large area when people can find a place to sit and do prayers. Now there are large area for parking as the soceity has taken a land and reserved it for vehicle parking for total free.

The template has a separate worshiping area and an area for the monks to reside. The secret BO tree is in a separate location to the main template but with in walking distance. The main attraction is the centuries old Na tree and the Dadimunda Devalaya situated under the same. The place is well maintained. The template owns an elephant who is also kept in the back yard.

Temple has been built during the kotte period with the royal patronage and venerated by the royal court. The temple completed in all aspects described in details in the poetic literature( Sandesha Kavya) of the era. Prince sapumal has made a vow to the "Na" (iron wood) tree, prior to his departure to capture jaffna peninsula. The temple has been completely destroyed by Dutch and subsequently ven.Pilane Buddha Rakkitha in the year 1818 has rebuilt to include new sections and the temple was re established. Among the new constructions temple and the entrance doors are considered to be particular interests.

Ancient Buddhist temple made in Kotte era. Many Buddhists visit this temple which has a Nà bodhi which is believed to be the type of bodhi which would be used by the Maithree bodhisatva.

A very beautiful temple.

Most sacred place in pitakotte. All Buddhists love this template for worship. Located near kotte Junction.

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 this temple many occasions and this is my first visit and it will continue

Kotte raja maha viharaya is the most famous temple in the 7th ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka. It s the last place of worship where the tooth relic of Lord Buddha located before the kingdom of Kandy. The prince Sapumal visited this temple before conquering of Yapapatuna (Jaffna ).

A Historical Buddhist temple in Colombo suburbs.