A serene sanctuary where wisdom meets tranquility, guiding hearts toward peace and enlightenment.
Nelligala International Buddhist Centre is a sacred institution serving both local and international communities. Located in Yatinuwara, Kandy, this breathtaking natural site offers panoramic views of the Central Highlands.
Founded by Ven. Wahurakumbure Dhammarathana Thero, Nelligala overcame numerous challenges to become a symbol of religious and national harmony. Officially opened on November 9, 2014, it features the majestic Shakya Singha Maha Seya, enshrining sacred relics, and the largest sermon hall in Yatinuwara. Additionally, meditation huts support monastic practices, making Nelligala a center for spiritual growth and devotion.
Daily offerings are made to the sacred relics enshrined at Sri Shakya Singha Sugandha Kutiya with the Sorasa Puja (offering of juices). These rituals are performed in honor of the hair relics and bone relics of the Buddha and Maha Rahath Theros, amidst of ceremonial drumming (Bheri Nada) at the Hevisi Piyasa.
Morning Buddha Puja (Heel Dana Puja)
The daily pujas and rituals performed at the Nelligala Sri Shakya Singhya Sugandha Kutia are collectively referred to as the “Sambuddha Puja” or “Theva.” The three main Thevas are the morning Theva, noon Theva, and evening Theva, all of which are performed daily. The morning puja is called “Aluyama Theva” or “Aluyama Duraya,” and this activity begins at 5:15 AM.
The session starts with the playing of Havis (devotional music). Monks designated for the morning puja prepare for the ceremony by wearing their robes and belts. This practice takes place daily at the Nelligala International Buddhist Centre. First, they enter through the Nāga Gate. This section is reserved for those who have taken refuge in the Nāga. Then, they enter through the Deva Gate, which is reserved for those who have taken refuge in the Devas.
Finally, they enter through the Brahma Gate, which is reserved for those who have taken refuge in the Brahmas.
All morning puja activities are conducted with great reverence for the holy beings. This includes preparing the offerings, welcoming with incense, and performing a flower offering. For the Sambuddha Puja, food offerings such as Kirihara (rice dish), boiled rice, 16 types of side dishes, curd, sweets, and fruits are made. After this, Dharma teachings are given to those who have made donations.
At the end of the puja, the offerings are purified, the food offerings are removed, and the hands of the holy beings are washed. All the items used during the puja are carefully wrapped in cloth and sealed. Then, the puja donations are either offered or “removed” as per the traditional practice.
Daily Nava “Pä Thewava” or Mid-Day Service (Ritual)
The Nava “Pä Thewava,” or dawn worship ritual associated with the Sambuddha (Buddha), begins at approximately 9:30 AM for the monks at the Sri Shakya Singha Sugandha Kutiya. The ritual starts with the playing of “Hewisi” (a type of devotional music). Participants include the monks responsible for the Thewava and those engaged in the morning activities of the temple.
First, they go upstairs and light incense. Shortly after, the midday Hewisi ritual begins. The monks light candles and remove impurities. After this, they proceed to the altar, known as “Malpavada,” where they offer flowers in prayer. The group performing the ritual (“Raala”) and the Hewisi music group join together, and along with those offering the worship, they bring the food offerings (“Pynd”) to the designated food preparation area (the kitchen) for the Buddha.
Following special practices, the midday food offerings are performed. This includes rice offerings, a special 16-dish meal, sweets, and fruits. Afterward, the ritual continues with the performance of the Sambuddha Vandana (Buddha worship) and Dharma teachings. The “Nava Pä Thewava” concludes when the responsible officials verify the completion of the ceremony, close the doors, and ensure the ritual activities are concluded in accordance with tradition.
Evening Ritual (Evening Gilanpasa Puja)
The Evening Ritual is also known as the “Evening Offering” (Handa Dura). This puja is conducted daily from 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM. The Teva Hewisi (traditional drum offering) begins at 6:15 PM, after which the old floral offerings are removed and replaced with fresh flowers. This ritual is performed in accordance with traditional customs.
During this religious ceremony, the kitchen staff carries the beverage vessels to the Sri Shakya Simha Sugandha Shrine. Thereafter, offerings such as tea, Ashta Pana Gilanpasa (an Ayurvedic medicinal drink), Chathu Madura (a mixture of Kitul jaggery, honey, ghee, and butter), medicinal herbs, warm water, and cool water are made. After the offerings are completed, the monastic community of the Nelligala International Buddhist Center proceeds to the Shakya Simha Sugandha Shrine for worship and the recitation of protective chants (Pirith Sajjayana). Following this, the monks responsible for the ritual deliver a Dhamma sermon for the devotees who participated in the puja.
Since 2014
Since 2014
Since 2014
Since 2014
To develop a Sri Lankan society nourished by the Buddha’s teachings, touching various aspects such as art and culture, and to guide individuals towards becoming a community enriched with spiritual qualities, ultimately leading all beings towards the supreme bliss of Nirvana, the highest goal of the Buddha’s teachings
Nelligala International Buddhist Centre stands as a beacon of peace, spiritual growth, and cultural heritage. Nestled atop the scenic hills, this sacred site continues to inspire thousands of devotees and visitors worldwide. To enhance its facilities and preserve its serene environment, we seek your generous support.
Your donation will contribute to the expansion of meditation spaces, infrastructure improvements, and the preservation of Buddhist teachings for future generations. Every contribution, big or small, helps in building a place of tranquility, wisdom, and devotion.
Copyright 2025 Nelligala.lk . All Rights Reserved. Designed & Developed by Magniff Lanka.
