Buddhism is not a religion but a philosophy and moral code espoused by Buddha. Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century B.C.
Buddhism is the belief system of the Sinhalese, and it is followed by 76.7% of the population. It plays a significant role in the country and society, spiritually, culturally, and politically, and Sri Lanka’s literature, art, and architecture are, to a large extent, a product of its Buddhism.
Exquisitely carved stone friezes, serene statues of Buddha, and dazzlingly decorated temples built into rocky overhangs that amaze the world even today are just some of the treasures left by a proud civilization stretching back more than two thousand years. Cities like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Awukana, Ritigala, and Dambulla, etc are home to such venerated sites and feats of irrigation.
In many ways unique in the original Indian styles and designs, has become a major area of study. Perhaps this is the result of the infusion of Hinduism with Buddhism to provide works of religious art. Now Hinduism is the second largest denomination after Buddhism. The Hindu devotees fundamentally worship the Trinity- Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer- and thousands of other gods and goddesses in the Hindu pantheon.
Sri Ponnambalam Vanesar Kovil is built of south Indian granite and the Sri Kailawasanathar Swami Devasthanam is the oldest Hindu temple in Colombo. Munneswaram (Chilaw), Koneswaram (Trincomalee), Hanuman temple, and Sita Amman temple, etc are among the famous Hindu shrines in Sri Lanka.