Seruwavila (also called as Seruwila) is a significant cultural and religious site located in the Trincomalee District of the Eastern Province in Sri Lanka.
It is especially renowned for the Seruwavila (Seruwila) Mangala Raja Maha Viharaya, an ancient Buddhist temple with a rich history.
Historical Significance of Seruwavila Buddhist Temple
Seruwavila buddhist temple has more than 2,000 years history and herewe will look how and why this historical temple is important.
Enshrined the Sacred Relic of Buddha
The Seruwila temple is believed to enshrine the forehead relic of the Buddha, making it one of the most sacred sites in Sri Lanka.
Built by King Kavan Tissa in 2nd century BCE
The temple was constructed during the reign of King Kavan Tissa of the Ruhuna Kingdom to honor the Buddha’s relics. The location was chosen because it was one of the areas blessed by the Buddha during his visits to Sri Lanka.
UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List
Seruwila is recognized for its archaeological and spiritual importance and is listed as a tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rehabilation and reconstruction of Seruwavila Dagaba and temple
Seruwavila temple was founded by Honourable Thero, Dambagasare Sri Sumendakara and rehabilation work was started on 1924.
Visiting Seruwavila Temple by Bus or Private Vehicle
Seruwavila temple in Trincomalee is located approximately 45km away from Trincomalee city. You can visit Seruwavila temple by both public transporation options and by your own vehicle. Road conditions is also good and reaching the location is also convienient.
Colombo to Seruwavila
Serruwavila is located 275 km away from Colombo and it will take around 6-7 hour time to reach the destination.
- Drive towards Trincomalee on A7 road.
- Turn right at Kantale town.
- Drive around 42 km to Serunuwara clock tower.
- Turn right and drive just approximately 2.5 km passing Ali Oluwa.
- Turn left and drive 7 km to reach the Seruwavila temple.
Visit Seruwavila by public transport from Trincomalee
- Get into a Akkaraipattu bus from Trincomalee bus stand.
- Get off at Pala Thoppur junction.
- Hire a tuk-tuk.
Visit Seruwavila by your private vehicle from Trincomalee
- Drive towards Habarana about 4 km from Trincomalee town.
- Turn left at 4th mile post junction towards Kinniya road (Marble beach road).
- Drive about 30 km towards Batticola passing Kinniya and Mutur towns.
- Turn left at Pala Thoppur junction.
- Drive about 8 km to reach the destination.
Summary
Seruwavila, in Sri Lanka, is a historic Buddhist site featuring the ancient Seruwila Mangala Raja Maha Viharaya, built by King Kavan Tissa in the 2nd century BCE. Surrounded by lush mangroves, wetlands, and rich biodiversity, it is a UNESCO tentative site, attracting pilgrims and nature enthusiasts for its spiritual and environmental significance.