Mahiyangana Raja Maha Vihara

Mahiyangana Raja Maha Vihara is a Buddhist temple in the Badulla district of Uva Province that houses a central shrine, a sacred Bodhi Tree, and a museum with historical artifacts. The museum documents the development of Buddhism on the island through various exhibits.

According to ancient chronicles, Buddha visited this location nine months after his enlightenment to spread teachings to local inhabitants. This made the temple one of the earliest places where Buddhism became established on the island.

The site hosts the annual Mahiyangana Esala Perahara festival, where traditional dancers, drummers, and worshippers gather for ceremonial processions throughout the year. These celebrations display living local customs passed down through generations.

The shrine sits on the outskirts of Mahiyanganaya town and connects via well-maintained roads to larger cities like Kandy, Ampara, and Monaragala. Visitors should wear comfortable footwear and dress respectfully when entering the sacred areas.

The shrine houses two significant relics: Buddha's collarbone and strands of hair, making it one of the oldest established shrines on the island. These relics are why the temple has drawn pilgrims from across the region for centuries.