Mahamevnawa Maha Viharaya is a Sri Lankan Buddhist Temple. It is one of the leading temples in Sri Lanka which contributes to the Dhamma propagation. The location of Mahamwvnawa Maha Viharaya is Uda Aparekke, Matara in Southern Province. This Theravada Buddhist monastery in Matara is the second largest monastery in our network. It is home to over 140 monks. There are many ways you can participate in the life of the monastery, even just with a day visit. If you want to take a break from the beaches in this major tourist city, this monastery is the perfect place.
When considering the value of Mahamevna Maha Viharaya, it is known as one of the monastery squad which was built to spread the peace message of Lord Buddha and is now a sacred landmark of Buddhist devotees in the Southern part of the country. A great stupa built as an image of Swarnamali Maha Seya in Anuradhapura is being placed in this temple. Its Relic Chamber is decorated by beautiful sculptures, carvings, and paintings. Also, there is a Relic Chamber Vihara Mandiraya built in this landmark for the Buddhists to witness and worship the sacred relic on their own. Aside from the Stupa, a yard with beautiful carvings and paintings is built for the convenience of the devotees. The sacred Bodhi Tree Shrine placed in here exaggerates the religious importance of this place.
The beauty of Mahamevna Maha Viharaya spread over 19 hectares with a wonderful jungle and there are two small monasteries in two small hilltops along with about 85 small stalls to meditate for the monks in the monastery. And also this place comprises of a huge Danashala and Dharmashala which are both halls, one for the monks to take their meals and another one for the Buddhist devotees for Dharma hearings. Along with all these temple features, this Mahamevnawa Monastery was built by Mr. Tissa Jinasena by his own donations and offered to the Buddhism with a great faith. It is the beginning history of Mahamevna Maha Viharaya.
Things to See and Do at the Monastery
- Meditate
- Visit the Bodhi Tree shrine
- Visit the Stupa
- Talk with monks about Buddhism
- Get personal meditation instructions from the monks
- Help offer food to the monks
- Join with the evening chanting
- Make offerings at the shrines
- Browse the Buddhist bookshop
- Get a blessing thread from the monks
Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery in Matara offers an alternative experience to the beaches and other popular attractions in the area. While there, you can meditate, visit a Bodhi tree shrine and a stupa, talk with monks about Buddhism, help with food offerings, join in the evening chanting, and browse the bookshops. All these temples features, observations, and offerings help for the people attraction towards to this sacred place. This monastery is open daily from 6 am to 9 pm. So, if you are interested in visiting this place you can go there at any time free while your holiday trip to Matara.
