Somawathiya Chaitya
Polonnaruwa
Religious Site
Historical Place
Cultural Attraction
Overview
Somawathiya Chaitya is one of the most sacred and historically important Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka. It is located within the Somawathiya National Park in Polonnaruwa District, on the left bank of the Mahaweli River. The temple is famous for the ancient stupa traditionally associated with the right canine tooth relic of the Buddha.
Surrounded by peaceful forests, wetlands, and the natural beauty of the Mahaweli River region, Somawathiya Chaitya offers visitors a unique combination of religious heritage, ancient history, and wildlife surroundings. It is an excellent destination for pilgrims, history lovers, photographers, and travellers exploring Polonnaruwa.
Location on Map
Things To See
What can we do ?
A visit to Somawathiya Chaitya is ideal for travellers who enjoy religious sites, history, photography, and peaceful natural surroundings. You can spend time exploring the temple area and learning about its ancient traditions.
- Pay homage at the Chaitya and experience the peaceful Buddhist environment.
- Explore the temple premises and observe its religious and historical features.
- Learn about the ancient history connected with the Buddha's sacred tooth relic.
- Enjoy nature around the Somawathiya National Park.
- Take travel photographs of the stupa, surrounding landscape, and temple environment.
- Observe birds and wildlife in the surrounding national park area.
- Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere away from busy urban areas.
- Combine your visit with a wildlife experience in the Somawathiya region.
Which time best for visit ?
The best time to visit Somawathiya Chaitya is generally during the drier months, when travelling around the Polonnaruwa region is more comfortable. Early morning and late afternoon are especially pleasant because the weather is cooler and the surroundings are peaceful.
Early Morning (Sunrise / Golden Hour)
Cool weather, soft light, fewer crowds
Late Afternoon (Sunset / Golden Hour)
Warm tones, scenic skies, ideal for photos
Midday
Not recommended due to heat and harsh sunlight
Night
Suitable only for city lights and special photography
Early Morning (Sunrise / Golden Hour)
Cool weather, soft light, fewer crowds
Late Afternoon (Sunset / Golden Hour)
Warm tones, scenic skies, ideal for photos
Midday
Not recommended due to heat and harsh sunlight
Night
Suitable only for city lights and special photography
How can we arrive?
Somawathiya Chaitya is located in the Somawathiya National Park area of Polonnaruwa District. Travellers can reach the area from Polonnaruwa through the road towards Sungawila and Somawathiya. The route passes through rural landscapes and provides beautiful views of the surrounding dry-zone environment.
By Bus
Visitors can travel by bus from Polonnaruwa towards Sungawila and continue towards the Somawathiya area.
Public transport services may be less frequent near the final destination, so travellers should check local bus schedules and arrange onward transport when necessary.
By Train
There is no railway station directly at Somawathiya Chaitya.
Visitors travelling by train can first reach Polonnaruwa Railway Station and then continue the journey by bus, taxi, hired vehicle, or private transport towards Somawathiya.
ByPrivete Vehicle
Travelling by private vehicle is one of the most convenient options.
From Polonnaruwa, travellers can follow the road towards Sungawila and Somawathiya.
Start planning your
Sri Lanka trip
for free
Build your itinerary, save places, optimize routes, and explore Sri Lanka with KKF Trip Basket.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Somawathiya Chaitya important?
It is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site traditionally associated with the right tooth relic of the Buddha and has a long history connected with ancient Sri Lankan Buddhism.
Is Somawathiya Chaitya in Polonnaruwa?
Yes. Somawathiya Chaitya is in Polonnaruwa District, North Central Province, although it is situated away from the main ancient city area.
Can tourists visit Somawathiya Chaitya?
Yes. The site is visited by Buddhist pilgrims, local travellers, and tourists interested in Sri Lanka's religious and cultural heritage.
