Nagadeepa Purana Raja Maha Vihara

Verification: in review · Coordinates: unverified

What is this site?

Coastal island complex commemorating the traditional second visit of Gautama Buddha to mediate a dispute between Naga rulers over a gem-set throne.

Why it matters

One of the sixteen holiest pilgrimage destinations (Solosmasthana) on the island, situated on Nainativu Island in the Palk Strait.

Description

Mentioned in the Mahavamsa; preserves a 12th-century Tamil stone inscription of King Nissanka Malla setting maritime trade tariffs at the port of Uraturai. Associated patrons (as supplied): King Nissanka Malla. Key features to look for: Silver-domed coastal overlooking the Palk Strait; 12th-century Tamil stone pillar inscription; Jetty pilgrimage entry gate with colorful Buddhist flags; Sacred Rajayathana Bodhi tree shrine.

Photos

Nainathivunakaviharai 2 — derivative work: Taprobanus (talk) NainathivuNahaVihara.JPG: Regunathan Umapathy, Public domain

Historical and scholarly sources

Reference as supplied in project dataset (pending verification): Solosmasthana #2; Antiquities Registry

Visiting responsibly

Dress modestly at religious sites, remove shoes and hats where requested, never climb on monuments or pose with your back to Buddha images, and follow guidance from custodians and the Department of Archaeology.