Negombo, a favourite location for beach resorts in Sri Lanka, is fondly dubbed “Little Rome” due to its high density of Catholic population and spectacular churches. However, among the said churches – illustrating the multi-religious nature of the island – is the Bodhirajarama Maha Viharaya, also known as Angurukaramulla Temple. The temple is only ten minutes away from Amagi Hotels & Resorts, making it a good candidate for your entry to the Buddhist temples and architecture in Sri Lanka.
The discerning feature of the temple is its shrine, the place where a number of statues are located, as well as paintings. The statues depict Lord Buddha and His compassionate nature, while the paintings on the walls tell stories from the previous births of Lord Buddha. However, what sets the Angurukaramulla Temple apart from other temples is the presence of Royal statues. There are statues made to the likeness of Sri Lankan kings through history, from Prince Vijaya who started the royal lineage in Sri Lanka to King Sri Wickrama Rajasinha, the last king of the country.
Visiting the temple is an easy enough task, but there are certain things you must remember if you have never visited a Buddhist place of worship. You need to dress conservatively, cover your shoulders and knees, and remove any headwear and footwear. It is customary to offer flowers to the Buddha statues, though it is not a must. You must not take photographs with your back turned towards the statue as this is considered highly disrespectful towards the religion. You may go and talk with the Head Monk of the temple if you wish to learn more about the history of the temple, area, or religion itself. A high level of respect is expected of you when addressing the clergy. However, as the monks are happy to help anyone who seeks help, you will be welcomed with open arms.
Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+