Have you heard the story of how the University Temple came to be? It all started back in 1983 when the Most Venerable Ampitiye Sri Rahula Thero had a vision. The old telephone exchange building on the university grounds felt like a forgotten relic, but the Thero saw its potential. He knew that a place dedicated to Buddhist spirituality was desperately needed in this hub of academic learning. So, he transformed the building into a residential aramaya, a space for Buddhist monks to live and practice their faith.
University Temple sits nestled within the grounds of the University of Peradeniya. Built on the site of the old telephone exchange, the temple became a vital center for Buddhist religious activities in the university.
Today, the temple continues to be a beacon of peace and understanding. Monks from all over Sri Lanka and even from foreign countries come to reside here, learning and practicing Buddhism. They make their alms round in the neighboring villages, spreading goodwill and sharing their wisdom with the local community. The University Temple holds a special significance for students, especially on Wednesday evenings when they gather to meditate and find inner peace. The temple’s doors are always open to anyone seeking refuge, spiritual guidance, or simply a moment of serenity amid the hustle and bustle of university life.