Sri Lanka is a land rich in history, which is a great source of pride to its people. Its influence is reflected even today in the society’s cultural and religious beliefs. Many historic sites, though some are in ruins, have retained their magnificence and hold much significance among the locals. They also make for intriguing tourist attractions. These sites are dotted all across the island and draw visitors from far and wide. The Rankoth Viharaya is an important place of worship to the Buddhist community. If you are visiting this temple, a hotel in Wadduwa should cover your accommodation requirement. Wadduwa is an up and coming coastal town. Access is convenient because it is only a stone’s throw from the capital city. Taprobana Wadduwa, located on the Indian Ocean’s doorstep is the ideal place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Rankoth Viharaya has achieved many milestones and has played a vital role in making Buddhism in Sri Lanka what it is today. A series of religious debates were held between Buddhists and Christians in the eighteenth century, the fifth of which was held in the vicinity of the temple. The debate brought the famous Sir Henry Steele Olcott to the country, who stirred up a vigorous revivalist movement among the Buddhists. The Panadura Rankoth Viharaya paved the way for registering Buddhist marriages in temples, ending the colonial practice of only registering marriages in churches. Sir Edwin Arnold, author of ‘Light of Asia’ is also known to have visited the Rankoth Viharaya when he travelled to Sri Lanka.
The Viharaya started out in 1810 within the confines of a small hut in a quarry in Panadura and was developed over the years with the financial and physical help of the town’s people. It earned the name it has today in 1890 when the pinnacle of its stupa was gilded.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
