Malwathu Maha Viharaya

Have you ever wondered what secrets lie hidden within the ancient walls of a Buddhist monastery? Here at the Malwathu Maha Viharaya in Kandy, those secrets whisper on the wind. The Malwathu Maha Viharaya, also known as Malwatta Temple, isn’t just a beautiful building. It is a cornerstone of Buddhist tradition in Sri Lanka. It’s one of two monasteries responsible for the custodianship of the sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha, housed in the nearby Sri Dalada Maligawa. This elevates the Malwathu Maha Viharaya to a position of immense spiritual importance. The monastery pulses with the energy of the Malwatta chapter of Siyam Nikaya. This is one of Sri Lanka’s leading Buddhist monastic fraternities. Its chief incumbent holds the esteemed title of Mahanayaka Thero. This signifies their leadership within this significant branch of Buddhism. The history of Malwathu Maha Viharaya stretches back to the late 15th or early 16th century. King Senasammatha Vickramabahu commissioned its construction. Originally built for just three monks, the monastery now houses a multitude of Buddhist monks. These include the members of the Karaka Sangha Sabha, the executive council of the Malwatta chapter. Within the complex, you’ll find the “Poya Ge.” This assembly hall, built during the reign of King Kirti Sri Rajasinha, hosts important meetings of the monastic fraternity. The Malwathu Maha Viharaya stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and tradition. It is a living, breathing embodiment of Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage. It continues to play a vital role in preserving and propagating the teachings of the Buddha.