Detailed information about religious beliefs in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is an island country located south of India and is home to a wide variety of religious beliefs. The country's most common religious beliefs are Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity. Buddhism is the most widespread religion in Sri Lanka and has had a profound influence on the country's history. Buddhism came to the country in the 3rd century and spread rapidly. One of the most important Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka is the Gangaramaya Temple, located in the country's capital, Colombo. Hinduism is considered the second most common religion in Sri Lanka. Hinduism is generally prevalent among the Tamil ethnic group, and Hindu temples are found in the northern and eastern parts of the country. Sri Dalada Maligawa in the city of Kandy is the holiest Hindu temple in the country and houses the tooth of Lord Buddha. Islam forms Sri Lanka's fourth largest religious community. The Islamic faith is widespread among the Muslim Tamil community living in the north and east of the country. There are mosques in cities such as Colombo, Galle and Kandy. Christianity has been influential throughout Sri Lanka's history. There are Christian churches in cities such as Galle, Negombo and Colombo on the west coast of the country. Catholicism is the most widespread Christian denomination in the country and was influential during the period of Portuguese colonization. Sri Lanka has adopted the principle of religious tolerance and multiculturalism. Peace and harmony between communities of different religious beliefs form an important part of the social fabric of the country. Therefore, different religious festivals and celebrations are held in Sri Lanka and there is an atmosphere of respect and tolerance among all communities.