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The Oldest Buddhist Monastery in Sri Lanka
Discover Ladyblake Monastery, a historic Buddhist site in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Established in 1905, this cultural gem is renowned for reviving female monasticism. Located near the famous Sri Dalada Palace, it plays a key role in major Buddhist rituals and boasts stunning traditional architecture. Celebrate its 120th anniversary and experience the spiritual heart of Kandy.
About Us
Kothmale Sudharma Theri
The Lady Blake Hermitage, established in 1905 in Kandy, Sri Lanka, is a historically significant Buddhist hermitage. It marks the revival of women's monasticism in Sri Lanka after the gradual disappearance of the Sri Lankan women's monastic tradition following the arrival of Sanghamitta Theri.
Although the hermitage was founded in 1905, it was revitalized with the support of the British Governor of Ceylon, Sir Henry Blake, and other dignitaries. The first chief nun of the hermitage was Sri Sudharmachari Theri. Following her, prominent nuns such as Sumanawathi Theri and the Burmese national, Machchi Theri, played key roles in its development.
Sacred Bodhi Tree
The Lady Blake Hermitage grounds feature a Bodhi tree and a Bo sapling, with the latter being notably significant as it is grown from a branch of the Anuradhapura Sri Maha Bodhi tree. Additionally, the hermitage, with its traditional Kandyan architectural style, enhances its cultural and spiritual atmosphere. It serves as a center for Buddhist rituals and education, contributing significantly to Kandy's religious landscape.
Sacred Dagoba
Another notable aspect is the connection of the Lady Blake Hermitage with the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) in Kandy, a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists. For nearly four decades, the hermitage has actively participated in important Buddhist ceremonies such as the annual visit to the Sri Dalada Maligawa and the Kathina robe offering ceremony.
The hermitage aids in maintaining traditional rituals and preserving the Theravada Buddhist heritage practiced in Sri Lanka. Currently, it is led by the chief nun Sudharmachari Theri.
The Lady Blake Hermitage will celebrate its 120th anniversary in the upcoming year, highlighting its long-standing presence and importance in Sri Lanka.
News & Events
Poson Festival 2024
The Poson Festival at the Lady Blake Hermitage is a time to honor the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka by Mahinda Thera. The hermitage marks this occasion with a variety of religious activities aimed at deepening the understanding and practice of Buddhism. Special meditation sessions are organized to encourage mindfulness and inner peace. Observance of Sil (seela sessions) is a key feature, with devotees taking the Eight Precepts and spending the day in quiet reflection and religious observance. The hermitage also hosts educational talks on the historical significance of Poson and the impact of Buddhism on Sri Lankan culture. A dansal is set up to provide free meals to all, symbolizing the Buddhist virtue of dana (generosity). These activities collectively contribute to a meaningful and enriching celebration of Poson at the Lady Blake Hermitage.
Esala Festival 2024
During the Esala Festival, the Lady Blake Hermitage joins the national celebration with a focus on spiritual and cultural enrichment. The festival, known for the Esala Perahera in Kandy, is celebrated at the hermitage with a series of religious observances. The hermitage organizes extended meditation sessions, allowing devotees to cultivate mindfulness and tranquility. Seela sessions are held, with participants taking the Eight Precepts and dedicating the day to spiritual practices. The hermitage grounds are adorned with traditional decorations, embodying the spirit of generosity and community. Additionally, special prayers and chanting sessions are conducted to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic and to invoke blessings for all beings. These activities ensure that the Esala Festival at the Lady Blake Hermitage is a time of deep spiritual engagement and cultural celebration.
Wesak Festival 2024
At the Lady Blake Hermitage, the Vesak Festival is observed with profound devotion and a series of special activities. To commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Lord Buddha, the hermitage organizes extended meditation sessions, allowing devotees to reflect deeply on the teachings of the Buddha. The grounds are beautifully decorated with Vesak lanterns and illuminated with lights, creating a serene and festive atmosphere. Almsgiving (dansal) is conducted, where free food is offered to all visitors, fostering a sense of community and generosity. Additionally, seela (observance of moral precepts) sessions are held, where participants take vows to uphold the Eight Precepts, engaging in heightened spiritual practice throughout the day. Dhamma sermons and chanting sessions are also integral parts of the celebrations, enhancing the spiritual experience of Vesak at the Lady Blake Hermitage.
Reviews
Serene environment for a place of worship
WP H
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very scerat place in kandy.sri lanka 1st buddist monostry
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Visit Us
Thank you for considering visiting Ladyblake Monastery. We warmly welcome visitors from all backgrounds to experience the tranquility and spiritual sanctuary our temple offers.
Feel free to drop by during our open hours to explore our sacred spaces, join our ceremonies, and immerse yourself in the teachings of Buddhism firsthand.
Temple Hours:
Monday to Friday: 5:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Saturday & Sunday: 5:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Location:
Ladyblake Aaramaya
Katukale
Kandy, Central 20000
Sri Lanka
Support Us
Thank you for considering supporting Ladyblake Aaramaya. Your generosity enables us to continue our mission of spreading peace, compassion, and wisdom through the teachings of Buddhism. Your donations help maintain our temple, support our resident nuns, and facilitate community programs.
Ways to Donate:
- Online Donation:
- In-Person Donation:
- Monthly Pledges:
You can securely donate online using our temple bank account Number. Your contribution helps sustain our daily operations and community outreach efforts.
Visit us during temple hours to make a donation in person. We welcome you to join our ceremonies and witness firsthand the impact of your generosity.
Consider becoming a monthly donor to provide sustained support for our ongoing programs and initiatives. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference.
What Your Donation Supports:
- Maintenance of Sacred Spaces:
- Community Outreach:
- Monastic Support:
Ensuring our temple remains a serene and welcoming place for all visitors.
Supporting educational workshops, meditation classes, and cultural events that benefit our local community.
Providing for the basic needs of our resident nuns who dedicate their lives to spiritual practice and service.
Ladyblake Monastery is a registered charitable organization under the Ministry of Buddhist Affairs.
We deeply appreciate your generosity and support. Your donation helps us preserve the teachings of the Buddha and share the path of wisdom and compassion with all who seek it. For any inquiries regarding donations or to discuss other ways to support Ladyblake Monastery, please contact us. Your kindness ensures that the light of the Dharma continues to shine bright. Thank you for being a part of our community and for your commitment to creating a more compassionate world.
Contact Details
Thank you for your interest in reaching out to Ladyblake Monastery. Whether you have questions, feedback, Donation or wish to connect with us, we are here to assist you.
For any Donation detail, immediate inquiries or to reach us directly, you can use the following contact details:
Mr. Upul Senevirathne
President of donor council
Phone: +9477 303 7719
Mr. Anura Jayasinghe
Secretary of donor council
Phone: +9477 582 9765
Mrs. Anuruddhika Senevirathne
Treasurer of donor council
Phone: +9471 842 5306