Seruwawila Rajamaha Viharaya can be reached both by road and sea. It is a beautiful temple in Trincomalee. It is among the Solosmasthana in Sri Lanka. This was built during the reign of King Kavantissa. This place consists of the “Lalatha Dathun Wahanse” which means the sacred forehead bone of Lord Buddha.
About the destination
As you can reach Seruwawila Rajamaha Viharaya both by road and sea, the sea route begins at Trincomalee to Muttur on a boat and you have to go another 16 km on road. The land route is via Kanthale to Allai which is about 45 km through dense forest.
It is stated that the Seruwila area was once a huge swamp where floodwaters of the Mahaweli use to get collected. This place once served as home for a large flock of teals (Seru) during their migratory period. It is believed that it is how the name “Seruwawila” came into being.
History of the destination
It is stated that during the reign of King Kawantissa the Kingdom of Ruhunu was threatened by invaders. He knew that there was a buffer state of Seru which was ruled by a prince named Siva. The king knew that he could make use of the loyalty and respect the Sinhalese people had for Buddhism to unite the country. He made sure to spread the word that he had possession of a sacred Relic and Lord Buddha had prophesied that it will be enshrined by him in a stupa built at Seru. When the ground stone had been laid he asked all the landowners to come for his help as a result the frontal bone of the Buddha was enshrined in Seruwawila Rajamaha Viharaya.
Reaching the destination
From Colombo
Go on McCallum Road. Continue straight onto Colombo – Katunayake Expressway and merge onto the Outer Circular Expressway. Turn right onto Colombo – Kandy Road and turn left onto Ambepussa – Kurunegala – Trincomalee Highway.
Turn right onto Seruwawila Road and turn left onto Trincomalee Highway. Turn left at Seruwavila-Somawathi Road and you will reach your destination.
From Trincomalee
You have to head south toward Uppuveli Road. Then exit the roundabout onto Ambepussa – Kurunegala – Trincomalee Highway.
Then turn left at China Waraya Handiya onto Trincomalee Highway. Turn left at Palathadichenai Sub Post office onto Palatoppu-Seruwawila Road. Turn left then turn right and you will reach your destination.
