Royal Tuskers

The Sacred Carriers of the Relic

Sacred Elephants

Living Symbols of
Devotion

The traditions of Kotte Rajamaha Vihara are enriched by the presence of ceremonial elephants, who have been an integral part of religious and cultural heritage across generations.

Elephants of the Past

Throughout history, several majestic elephants have been closely associated with the temple's traditions and ceremonial processions.

Raja

A tusker who contributed as a ceremonial elephant to the Kotte Dalada Perahera and the Kandy Dalada Perahera in the 80s and 90s, and to various other perahera across the island. Raja passed away in 1998.

Hemantha

Hemantha was donated to the Kotte Rajamaha Viharaya by former President Chandrika Kumaratunga in 1996. Unfortunately, Hemantha passed away in 2016.

Lanka

Lanka was donated to the Rajamaha Viharaya by D.B. Wijethunga in 1992. Lanka was a tall and majestic elephant and passed away in 2012.

Jaya Sri

This elephant was donated to the Kotte Rajamaha Viharaya by former President J.R. Jayewardene in 1982. Jaya Sri rendered valuable service to Sri Lankan perahera culture and passed away in 2010.

Surathala / Ralahami

Surathala was donated to Kotte Rajamaha Viharaya by former President J.R. Jayewardene in 1978. Surathala passed away in 2018.

Elephants of the Present

Continuing this proud tradition, the following elephants remain connected to the temple's cultural and ceremonial practices today.

Kotte Raja

Kotte Raja is one of the most majestic and sacred tuskers in Sri Lanka. Raja was donated by former minister Rohitha Bogollagama in 2009 and was born in Myanmar. Kotte Raja serves as the main ceremonial tusker in the Kotte Dalada Perahera.

Surathal Raja

Surathal Raja was donated to the Kotte Rajamaha Viharaya by former President J.R. Jayawardhena in 1982 and has been living healthy at the temple ever since.