Ever wonder about the tale of a temple that pilgrims call Egoda Kelaniya? We are standing before Kithsiri Mewan Raja Maha Viharaya. This temple has a rich history intertwined with the Kelani River and the sacred Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya.
Kithsiri Mewan Raja Maha Viharaya is located on the south side of the Kelani River. It stands opposite the Kelaniya Temple. This location led pilgrims to call it Egoda Kelaniya. In Sinhala, this means “Kelaniya on the other side.”
Long ago a ferry was the only way to cross the river to get here. Now a bridge connects these two significant temples. This bridge symbolizes the link between Kithsiri Mewan Raja Maha Viharaya and its sister temple.
King Kithsiri Mewan built this temple from 301 to 328 B.C. He chose a beautiful spot across the Kelani River. Imagine this area centuries ago a serene environment for spiritual reflection.
The Kelani River holds immense significance. Lord Buddha himself bathed in its waters during his visit to Kelaniya. This act sanctified the river for Buddhists in Sri Lanka. Legend says that a water particle from the robe he wore is now inside the Kithsiri Mewan Raja Maha Viharaya’s pagoda. This relic is noted in an inscription dating back to the 18th century.
The Kithsiri Mewan Raja Maha Viharaya includes several important structures. There is a historical Buddha mandira and a Bo tree. You can also find a figurine of the sacred Sri Pada near the pagoda. These elements create a complete and sacred space.
The Portuguese destroyed the original pagoda. But Ven Sri Rahula Thero found it intact during his visit. He was delighted by this discovery. The Thero even mentioned Kithsiri Mewan Raja Maha Viharaya in his Salelihini Sandeshaya.
Recently something special happened here. The Nayaka Thero of both Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya and Kithsiri Mewan Raja Maha Viharaya planted a branch of the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi here. A golden fence surrounds this sapling. It signifies the continued growth of Buddhism.
Kithsiri Mewan Raja Maha Viharaya stands as a testament to faith and history. Its connection to the Kelani River Lord Buddha and the ancient kings of Sri Lanka makes it a truly special place. Remember the story of the robe and the pagoda. Think of the bridge that connects two temples. These details remind us of the enduring legacy of Kithsiri Mewan Raja Maha Viharaya.