Delgamuwa Raja Maha Vihara is an ancient Buddhist temple renowned as the historic secret sanctuary that protected the Sacred Tooth Relic during the Portuguese era in Sri Lanka.

Why visit Delgamuwa Raja Maha Vihara

• Hiding Place of the Sacred Tooth Relic: The temple is famous for being the place where the sacred tooth relic of Buddha was hidden for over 40 years during the Portuguese invasion.
• Historical Significance: The temple has a history dating back to the Sitawaka Kingdom, and it played a crucial role in protecting the country's Buddhist heritage during the Portuguese rule.
• Kurahan Grinding Stone: The sacred tooth relic was hidden inside a Kurahan (millet) grinding stone, which can still be seen at the temple today.
• Role in Buddhist Heritage: After being protected here, the sacred tooth relic was returned to Kandy by King Vimaladharmasuriya I, where it remains today in the Temple of the Tooth.
• Destroyed and Robbed: The temple was robbed and demolished by the Portuguese after the sacred relic was removed, showing its importance and the threats it faced during colonial times.