The Japanese peace pagoda Rumassala in Sri Lanka offers mesmerizing views of the Indian Ocean and Galle Fort.
Buddhism promotes peace and harmony. This is also visible from the monasteries or pagodas they build. Similarly, the Japanese Peace Pagoda in Sri Lanka’s Rumassala stands as a symbol of peace, harmony, unity, and tranquility.
This Buddhist pagoda is built by the Japanese organization, Nipponzan Myohoji. It is a beautiful structure and a must-visit spot if you are in Sri Lanka.
About Japanese Peace Pagoda Rumassala
In response to the horrors of World War II, a series of peace pagodas are constructed across the globe to inspire inner peace and foster global harmony. The Japanese peace pagoda Rumassala is a part of this series.
It stands as a symbol of hope for the future and promotes the tone of the principles of Buddhism—to avoid war and violence. This peace pagoda was built in 2004 by the Sri Lankan local Buddhist communities and Japanese Buddhist monks.
If we talk about its architecture, then this white structure gleams against the backdrop of the blue ocean and greenery of Rumassala Hill. It is circular in design and shows Japanese traditional aesthetics along with Buddhist principles of balance.
Location
Want to know the exact location of this peace pagoda? The peace pagoda is situated on the Rumassala Hill near Galle on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. To reach the peace pagoda, you will have to reach Galle first. From here, the peace pagoda is a 15-minute drive.
You will travel through the scenic routes with winding roads and the Rumassala forest area. The panoramic views from the top include Galle, Unawatuna Bay, and the Indian Ocean.
The walking path is the best if you can hike up to the pagoda. Rumassala Hill is believed to be the part of the mountain that Lord Hanuman, a Hindu deity, carried to Sri Lanka. This is from the legend of the Hindu epic, Ramayana.
Entry Fee
You know what the best thing about this peace pagoda is? It is the entrée fee. Yes, because it is completely free. The peace pagoda is free for all to visit, including the locals and international visitors. But, if you wish, you can support the pagoda by donating the amount as per your wish. This only helps them in maintaining the pagoda and looking after the monastic community.
Opening time
Though the peace pagoda is open 24 hours, the opening time or visiting hours are between 6 am and 7 pm. This is because the pagoda has to be cleaned, certain maintenance may be needed, and so on.
Conclusion
Visiting the Japanese peace pagoda Rumassala will give you immense peace and good memories. If you are visiting there early in the in the morning, then the cool breeze and calm atmosphere will relax your mind. If you want to witness the sunset over the Indian Ocean, visiting in the evening is the best.
Include this peace pagoda in your visit to Sri Lanka to experience spirituality, calm, and the beauty of nature.
Editorial Staff at Ceylon Empire Travels are Specialist in Sri Lanka Travel.
