Weligama Agrabodhi Rajamaha Viharaya: A Sacred Link to Sri Lanka's Buddhist Legacy

Standing proudly in Weligama, the Agrabodhi Rajamaha Viharaya represents one of Sri Lanka's most significant Buddhist sites:

• Home to one of the first 32 saplings from the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura
• Survived Portuguese destruction and Kandyan-era restoration
• Features rare inscriptions documenting its 2,000-year history
• Continues as an active meditation center for monks

Sacred Highlights

The Ancient Bodhi Tree

• Direct descendant of the original Bodhi tree where Buddha attained enlightenment
• Ceremonial platform built during King Kirti Sri Rajasinha's reign (1747-1782)
• Daily rituals still performed under its branches

Historic Structures

• Image House: Contains Kandyan-era Buddha statues
• Portuguese-era ruins: Visible foundation stones
• Moonstone: Exquisite Kandyan-period carving

Archaeological Treasures

• Brahmi script inscriptions (1st-3rd century BCE)
• Kandyan royal edicts carved on stone
• Portuguese cannonball damage on older walls

Visitor Experience

• Location: Weligama town center (Near Stilt Fisherman point)
• Access: 5-min walk from Weligama beach
• Hours: 5:30AM-8:00PM (Puja at 6:30AM & 6:30PM)
• Dress Code: Modest clothing (sarongs available)

Best Times to Visit:

• Morning: Observe monks' daily rituals
• Full Moon: Special Bodhi Pooja ceremonies
• Sunset: Golden light on ancient structures

Local Insights

• The temple's hidden underground chamber used during Portuguese attacks
• Annual Bodhi festival each May attracts thousands
• Nearby stilt fishermen often visit for blessings

Conservation Note

This sacred site:

• Protects one of Sri Lanka's oldest living trees
• Maintains ancient water filtration systems
• Please avoid touching the fragile inscriptions

Nearby Spiritual Sites

• Matara Paravi Duwa Temple (20-min drive)
• Dondra Vishnu Devalaya (30-min drive)
• Mirissa Sariputhra Monastery (15-min drive)

Book a Buddhist Heritage Tour

Want to explore Sri Lanka's sacred Bodhi legacy? Sri Lanka Tour Help offers:

• Private temple tours with historians
• Meditation experiences with resident monks
• Customized spiritual itineraries

Contact us for a journey through living Buddhist history!