Today, about 70 per cent of the Sri Lankan population practises Buddhism. According to Sri Lankan tradition, the faith was introduced in the 2nd Century, during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa and although it has seen periods of decline in times of colonialism, it remains the most prominent faith to this day. Buddhism in Sri Lanka is primarily of the Theravada School – the “teaching of the elders” – which is not only the oldest surviving school, but the one that is most faithful to early Buddhism. On Sri Lanka holidays, you will see not only see the vestiges of Buddhism scattered around the country in the form of relics, ruins and statues, but you may have the opportunity to interact with the monks at one of the many Buddhist celebrations.
Anuradhapura
The city of Anuradhapura, once the capital of Sri Lanka, contains some of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the country and is the first stop for anyone taking Sri Lanka holidays and interested in the Buddhist culture. It is said that Anuradhapura is home to the Sri Maha Bodhi tree, a sapling from the original Bo tree. This was the tree under which the Buddha himself received “enlightenment”, and pilgrims from all over the world are drawn to visit this sacred site. The Atamasthana (8 places of worship) in Anuradhapura are the main Buddhist attractions, and include monastic ruins, dagabas and stupas, but by far the most impressive is the Samadhi Statue. Presiding over the Mahamevuna Park, this granite statue of the Buddha in dhyana posture stands 8 feet tall and leaves visitors experiencing a mixture of peace and wonderment.