A Sanctuary of History, Artistry, and Tranquility
Kothduwa Raja Maha Viharaya
Kothduwa Temple, also known as Kothduwa Rajamaha Viharaya, is a beautiful Buddhist temple located on a small island in the Madu Ganga river in southern Sri Lanka. This sacred site is renowned for its tranquility and spiritual significance.
The temple is accessible only by boat, adding to its mystical charm and secluded atmosphere. Surrounded by lush mangrove forests and diverse wildlife, Kothduwa Temple offers visitors a unique spiritual experience away from the hustle of modern life.
Established centuries ago, the temple preserves ancient Buddhist traditions while serving as a center for meditation and religious studies.
Kothduwa Across the Centuries
History of Kothduwa Raja Maha Viharaya
In the 4th century CE, King Guhasiva of Kalinga was in possession of a sacred relic, a tooth of Buddha. The cause of political upheaval for hundreds of years, the tooth was believed to impart a divine right to rule, to whoever possessed it. The King, fearing that the object of his Buddhist worship would be forcibly taken from him, secretly sent the tooth away with the Princess Hemamali and her husband, Prince Danthakumara. Disguised as Brahmins and hiding the tooth in Princess Hemamali’s hair, legend states that they sailed to Sri Lanka.Accounts of where they landed in Sri Lanka vary, with some recording their port as Trincomalee and others as Welitota, or present-day Balapitiya.
The legend that they landed in Balapitiya, at the mouth of the Maduganga estuary, is recorded in Pali Dalada Vansaya, or Chronicle of the Tooth Relic. The story continues that the couple hid the tooth in a sand shelter at Kothduwa, while tarrying there, before finally giving it to King Sirimeghavanna, the ruler of Sri Lanka at the time.
Our Services
Dhamma Discussions
Participate in Dhamma sermons, spiritual talks, and discussions that illuminate the timeless wisdom of Lord Buddha’s teachings.
Our Projects
Through numerous community projects and generous donations, Kothduwa Temple continues to spread kindness and support those in need..
Boat Pilgrimages to the Temple
Visitors can reach the temple through a scenic boat ride across the Madu River, offering a tranquil journey surrounded by lush mangroves and peaceful waters.
Sunday School
At Kothduwa Dhamma School, generations of children are nurtured with Buddhist values and moral teachings that shape compassionate hearts.
Poya Programs
Monthly Poya programs of our temple is a successful event planned carefully to ensure maximum gain of peacefulness to your mind.
Meditation School
Specially designed and programed for children to improve insight to life and to address young minds.
A Peaceful Escape
Boat Rides in Ahungalla
Drift along the serene waters of the Madu River, where winding mangrove tunnels, fluttering birds, and rippling reflections create a world of pure tranquility. As your boat glides through this scenic estuary, you’ll pass small islands rich in life and history — from cinnamon plantations to the sacred Kothduwa Temple nestled at the heart of the river. The gentle rhythm of the water, the whispering leaves, and the warmth of the southern breeze make this journey more than a boat ride — it’s a peaceful escape into nature’s embrace and Sri Lanka’s spiritual heritage.
