Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is a Buddhist temple built in the 5th century. It is believed to have been visited by the Buddha on his third visit to the country along with 500 monks after the enlightenment of 8 years, back in 500 BCE. The main attraction is the astounding 90 feet stupa and the intrinsic paintings.

According to mythology Vibhishana(King Ravana’s younger brother) ruled Kelaniya as a provincial kingdom and in today’s era, he is worshipped as the deity of the area. Naga King Maniakkitha was the ruler of Kelaniya at the time of Lord Buddha’s arrival, and he was the one to invite lord Buddha. The stupa had been renovated by king Uttiya in 3rd century BC and later by king Yatala Tissa. King Parakramabahu VI further improved the infrastructure. But more subsequently the Portuguese who visited the Island destroyed the temple, but the Dutch restored it, and the Kandyan King Kirthi Sri Rajasingha renovated the temple which is existing till now.