10 Things to Do in Aluvihara Temple (Alu Viharaya), Matale Sri Lanka
Aluvihara Temple, located in Matale, Sri Lanka, is a sacred Buddhist site that is visited by pilgrims from all over the world. The temple is believed to be one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the country and is home to many ancient and important Buddhist relics. It is also home to a number of shrines, stupas, and other structures that are considered to be of great historical and religious significance. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Aluvihara Temple.
1. Visit the Main Shrine: The main shrine at Aluvihara Temple is dedicated to the Lord Buddha, and it is believed to be the oldest shrine in the country. The shrine is built on a raised platform and is surrounded by a number of other shrines dedicated to various deities. Visitors can also explore the many statues and paintings that adorn the walls of the shrine.
2. Explore the Stupas: Aluvihara Temple is home to a number of stupas, which are structures that are used to house sacred relics. The stupas are believed to be built by the ancient kings of Sri Lanka and are a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the country. Visitors can explore the stupas and learn about the various relics housed within them.
3. Visit the Relic Chamber: The relic chamber at Aluvihara Temple is believed to contain some of the most important Buddhist relics in the world. The chamber is home to a number of ancient relics, including a tooth of the Lord Buddha and a number of other items of religious significance. Visitors can explore the chamber and learn more about the history and importance of the relics.
4. Explore the Monasteries: There are a number of monasteries located around Aluvihara Temple, each of which has its own unique history and culture. Visitors can explore the various monasteries and learn more about the monks who live there.
5. Tour the Gardens: Aluvihara Temple is home to a number of beautiful gardens that are filled with a variety of plants and flowers. Visitors can explore the gardens and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
6. Visit the Rock Cave: The rock cave at Aluvihara Temple is believed to have been used by the Lord Buddha during his time in Sri Lanka. Visitors can explore the cave and learn more about its history and importance.
7. Participate in a Puja: Aluvihara Temple hosts a number of pujas, or religious ceremonies, throughout the year. Visitors can participate in these ceremonies and learn more about the religion and culture of the country.
8. Take a Tour of the Temple: Visitors can take a guided tour of Aluvihara Temple and learn more about its history and importance. The tour will take visitors through the various shrines and stupas, as well as the relic chamber and gardens.
9. Attend a Meditation Session: Aluvihara Temple offers a number of meditation sessions throughout the year. Visitors can attend these sessions and learn more about the practice of meditation.
10. Shop at the Souvenir Shop: Aluvihara Temple has a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase a variety of items related to the temple and its history. The shop is a great way to take a piece of the temple home with you.