Sri Lanka is often called the wonder of Asia, owing to its culmination of modern developments and natural surrounds while maintaining its rich cultural and historical heritage. Known for its deeply rooted spiritual practices and Buddhist religion, pilgrimage tours offer visits to the most religious and significant sites in the country. Common spiritual festivals and sites encourage travellers from all over the world to partake in the celebrations.
Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy
The Sri Dalada Maligawa is one of the most sacred heritage sites in the city of Kandy and includes only a short travel distance from the capital Colombo. The spiritual establishment also known as the Temple of Tooth, houses the tooth relic of the Lord Buddha and attracts thousands of followers from across the globe every year. It is this tooth relic that was rescued by the princess, Hemamali, from Kalinga. The temple creation was believed to have occurred in 1687. Daily prayers are performed at Sri Dalada Maligawa requiring the appropriate dress with covered legs, arms and shoulders.
Dambegoda
You will find a Buddhist statue of over 10m in height that is a short distance from Maligawila. The name of this Buddha is Avalokitheswara Bodhisattva who is identified as a being of higher order and whose purpose is to remain on the land where salvation is provided to regular people. Considered one of the holiest Buddhist places in Sri Lanka, the presence of a shrine was believed to be blessed by the Lord Buddha.
Sri Padaya (Adam’s Peak)
With tours to Sri Padaya occurring from December to April, this natural mountainous site is a holy landmark. All religions including Budhists, Christians, Muslims and Hindu followers visit the site every year owing to its spiritual significance. Hikes up the mountain are not only completed for its breath-taking sunrise, but the presence of a footprint preserved in rock, said to signify creation. Pilgrims walk up the mountain overcoming various obstacles along the way and reaching a state of praise and thanksgiving once at the peak.
Poson Festival
The Poson Festival is held in the month of June with the most impressive and largest celebrations taking place in Anuradhapura. The entire island participates in the religious festivities, but in Mihinthalaya it was believed that the Lord Buddha was the first to deliver his spiritual message. Mihinthalaya is called the Cradle of Buddhism. In Sri Lanka, communities gather during the Poson Festival to show thanks and partake in song, religious rituals, and Dansalas where food and beverages are freely shared. The temples in Poson see an influx of pilgrims during this time who prepare for the religious nature of the festival.
Vesak
In May, the Vesak Festival is held when the full moon is present in the night sky. Buddhists from across the world celebrate the event, concerning the life of the Lord Buddha. The Buddhists worship and praise in the local temples. One can view the spectacular creations of lanterns, lights, song and dance in the streets that will leave you spellbound by exceptional spiritual nature.
Pada Yatra
Pada Yatra involves a 45-day pilgrimage from the region of Jaffna to Kataragama. The journey along the East Coast is the oldest and most significant of Sri Lankan spiritual ventures. This highly traditional practice is celebrated yearly and is truly unique to Sri Lanka.