Maha Saman Devalaya is an important shrine in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, dedicated to Saman, the guardian of the sacred Sri Pada Mountain. Situated in the beautiful Sabaragamuwa Province, this temple is a key part of Sri Lanka’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Maha Saman Devalaya attracts many visitors because of its deep historical and spiritual significance. The shrine honors Saman, a respected figure who is thought to have been a local leader during the Buddha’s visit to Sri Lanka. According to the Mahavamsa, an ancient chronicle, Saman reached the first level of enlightenment, called Sotapanna, after listening to the Buddha’s teachings. After his death, Saman was honored as a deity, and he is still greatly respected in the area.
A major highlight of Maha Saman Devalaya is its connection to the sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. During the reign of King Parakramabahu VI, the Tooth Relic was kept at Delgamuwa Raja Maha Vihara. For 11 years, the grand Esala Perahera procession, which celebrated the relic, took place at Maha Saman Devalaya.
This tradition continues today with the annual Esala Perahera festival in August and September. The festival features lively cultural performances, traditional dances, and beautifully decorated elephants. It starts with traditional ceremonies like the Pirith ceremony and Kumbal Perahera and ends with the Diya Kapeema, a symbolic water-cutting ceremony.
Maha Saman Devalaya is about 81 km from Colombo and just 3.5 km from Ratnapura town, making it easy to reach by car or public transport. You can visit the shrine throughout the year, but visiting during the Esala Perahera offers a more exciting experience. The shrine is open daily, and while there is no entrance fee, donations are appreciated. When visiting, it is important to dress modestly as it is a place of worship.
Ratnapura, known as the “City of Gems,” has more to offer beyond the Maha Saman Devalaya. After your visit, consider exploring the nearby gem mines to learn about Sri Lanka’s famous gemstone industry. The city is also close to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty.
Route from Colombo
Take bus route 122 (Colombo to Ratnapura) from the Bastian Mawatha Bus Stand in Pettah, Colombo, and get off at Ratnapura. From Ratnapura, take bus route 450 (Ratnapura to Panadura) or a tuk-tuk. The destination is about 4 km from Ratnapura.
