The Journey of Sri Lankaramaya
From a small, humble hut to a fully equipped sanctuary, the growth of Sri Lankaramaya is a testament to faith, collaboration, and the timeless truth of the Dhamma.
Sri Lankaramaya is situated in the historic city of Kosambi (modern-day Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh), which was a major metropolis during the time of the Buddha. The project was initiated in August 2005, when Ven. Dr. Talammahara Siri Visuddhi Nayaka Thero visited Kosambi on a spiritual pilgrimage.
Recognizing the significance of this sacred place and the lack of proper accommodation for visiting pilgrims, he resolved to establish a temple. With determination, he purchased a small plot of land in the name of the Ananda Bodhi Society of India and built a simple hut. This marked the humble beginning of the Sri Lankaramaya Buddha Vihara.
Key Historical Milestones
August 2005 — The Humble Beginning
Ven. Dr. Talammahara Siri Visuddhi Thero acquired a small plot of land under the Ananda Bodhi Society of India, establishing a tiny hut as a base for prayer and stay.
2008 – 2015 — Rapid Expansion & Construction
Devotees from Sri Lanka, India, and other countries came together. New residential structures, shrine halls, and facilities were built to handle the rising flow of international pilgrims.
2018 — Free School Opening
Recognizing the educational needs of local children, the temple inaugurated a primary school approved by the Indian government, offering free education, books, and uniforms.
Present Day — Pillars of Support
Now accommodating up to 250 pilgrims at any given time, the temple represents a hub of community service, education, and spiritual practice in Kaushambi.
Ven. Dr. Talammahara Siri Visuddhi
Founder & Chief Incumbent Thero
Ven. Dr. Talammahara Siri Visuddhi Nayaka Thero is a respected Buddhist monk and humanitarian. Through his relentless efforts, he managed to unite Buddhists and non-Buddhists from all walks of life. His vision goes beyond religious practices: he strives to uplift the local community of Kaushambi through education, food drives, and infrastructural support.
"The Dhamma is about serving humanity and bringing peace to hearts. By establishing Sri Lankaramaya in Kosambi, we connect history with the living present."
Sacred Land of Kosambi
Kosambi was the capital of the Vatsa kingdom, one of the sixteen Mahajanapadas in ancient India. It was here that the merchant Ghosita built the Ghositarama Monastery for the Buddha and his disciples.
The Buddha spent his 9th, 10th, and 12th rain retreats (Vassa) here. Many significant suttas (discourses) were delivered by him on this very soil, emphasizing mindfulness, reconciliation, and harmony. Sri Lankaramaya stands adjacent to this sacred archeological site, preserving this historical footprint.