Following the Footsteps of the Buddha

A growing number of Bhutanese, particularly among the elderly, are setting aside familiar pilgrimage routes to explore the spiritual treasures of Sri Lanka. Traditionally known for revered sites in Bodh Gaya India, Lhasa, and Nepal, many devotees from Bhutan are now journeying to the island nation—a land steeped in ancient Buddhist traditions and cultural splendor.

At the heart of this emerging trend is the Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. This revered site, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, draws millions of pilgrims from across the globe. It is believed that the venerated relic was brought to Sri Lanka in ancient times by Princess Hemamala and Prince Dantha from Kalinga, during the reign of King Keerthi Sri Meghavarna (Kithsirimevan, 301–328). Locals like Kumar, who works at the temple, express heartfelt admiration for the Bhutanese visitors. “It’s inspiring to see visitors from Bhutan, a Buddhist nation, honour these sacred spaces,” he remarked, encapsulating the spirit of cross-cultural devotion.

Another cornerstone of this spiritual journey is the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura. This sacred tree is reputed to have sprouted from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Planted by King Asoka’s daughter in 288 BCE, the Bodhi tree stands as a living link to an ancient past and continues to be a powerful symbol of enlightenment and enduring faith. Nearby, the historic Maha Viharaya—Sri Lanka’s first Buddhist monastery established by King Devanam Piyatissa in 250 BCE—offers visitors a glimpse into the early days of Buddhist monasticism.

Central Sri Lanka’s Dambulla Cave Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage treasure, is captivating Bhutanese pilgrims with its intricate network of caves. Carved into a rocky plateau around 80 BCE, the temple houses 153 Buddha statues along with vivid frescoes and images of kings, deities, and mythological figures such as Vishnu and Ganesh. The walls and ceilings of these caves, repainted and preserved over the centuries, tell the story of Sri Lanka’s rich religious artistry. Visitors from abroad are welcomed with an entry fee of 2,000 Sri Lankan rupees, a modest price to experience this treasure trove of Buddhist history.

Additionally, the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, located near Dambulla in the Central Province, is steadily gaining admiration among Bhutanese visitors. The fortress’s imposing presence and historical significance provide a striking counterpoint to the serene, sacred monuments of Buddhism.

Equally significant is Adam’s Peak, locally known as Sri Pada, which continues to be a major pilgrimage site. The roughly 7-kilometre trek to the summit, where a footprint believed to mark the Buddha’s, offers devotees both a physical challenge and a profound spiritual experience. “My final stop here is Adam’s Peak, after which I will travel to Bodhgaya in India,” said Pema Wangda from Monggar, whose journey exemplifies the blend of devotion and perseverance characterizing these pilgrimages.

Former Education Minister Norbu Wangchuk, now serving as the director general of the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP) in Colombo, notes that the deep Buddhist history and ongoing spiritual resonance of Sri Lanka have a special appeal for Bhutanese visitors. He explained, “Iconic pilgrimage sites such as the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, Adam’s Peak in Hatton, and the ancient Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura continue to captivate Bhutanese pilgrims, offering immense spiritual significance and a profound connection to the teachings of the Buddha.” Wangchuk also highlighted a recent trend: with rising affluence, many Bhutanese now have the means to embark on these significant journeys. “It is heartening to witness sons and daughters working abroad, particularly in Australia, generously supporting their parents in fulfilling lifelong dreams of visiting these holy sites,” he added.

As Bhutanese pilgrims converge on Sri Lanka’s sacred sites, they not only pay homage to enduring Buddhist traditions but also participate in a unique cultural exchange. This rediscovered connection to Sri Lanka’s spiritual legacy is reshaping traditional pilgrimage routes, forging bonds between nations united by shared devotion and the timeless teachings of the Buddha.

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