Mahiyangana: Where Buddhism and Indigenous Culture Converge

One of Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist sites, home to the Buddha's hair relic and ancient Vedda traditions

A Sacred Crossroads of History

Located along the mighty Mahaweli River, Mahiyangana holds the distinction of being:

• First place the Buddha visited in Sri Lanka (during his 3rd visit to the island)
• Only stupa containing the Buddha's sacred hair relic
• Cultural melting pot where Buddhism meets indigenous Vedda heritage

The Spiritual Heart: Mahiyangana Rajamaha Viharaya

Sacred Relics & History

Temple Timeline:

• 6th Century BC: Original stupa built by Buddha's disciple Sarabhu
• 2nd Century BC: Rebuilt by King Dutugemunu to current 92ft height
• Present Day: One of Sri Lanka's 16 Solosmasthana (most sacred Buddhist sites)

What to See:

• Golden stupa enshrining the hair relic
• Ancient murals depicting Buddha's visit
• Vedda shrine honoring indigenous connections

The Vibrant Perahera

September Festival Highlights:

• Vedda dances (rare indigenous performances)
• Elephant procession with 100+ dancers
• Firewalking ceremonies at nearby Devalaya

Beyond the Temple: Cultural Treasures

1. Vedda Indigenous Experiences

With Local Communities:

• Visit Dambana Vedda Village (12km away)
• Learn hunting techniques with bow/arrow
• Taste traditional honey and yams

2. Mahaweli River Adventures

Eco-Tours:

• Boat trips to Manik Ganga (healing waters)
• Birdwatching at Randenigala Reservoir

3. Nearby Sacred Sites

Sangamiththa Temple:

• Where Princess Sangamitta brought the sacred Bodhi sapling
• Ancient stone inscriptions from 3rd century BC

Practical Visitor Information

Location:

• 60km from Badulla / 74km from Kandy
• On A26 highway near Mahaweli River

Temple Hours:

• 5:30 AM - 8:00 PM daily
• Morning puja most atmospheric

Entry: Free (donations accepted)

Getting There:

• From Kandy: 2.5hr scenic drive
• From Polonnaruwa: Combine with Wasgamuwa safari

Best Time to Visit

• Festival Season (September):
  • Experience the vibrant Perahera
  • Book accommodations early
• Dry Season (Jan-Apr):
  • Pleasant weather for exploration
  • Best river conditions

Local Flavors to Try

Must-Eat Specialties:

• Kiri kos (jackfruit curry in coconut milk)
• Rukattana (wild forest tubers)
• Vedda honey (sourced from jungle hives)

Book a Cultural Pilgrimage

Let Sri Lanka Tour Help arrange:

• Temple visits with monk guides
• Vedda cultural encounters
• Mahaweli River eco-tours

Plan your spiritual journey: https://srilankatourhelp.org