Swiss Mahavihara Buddhist Temple
St. Gallen · Switzerland
The spiritual home for peace and Dhamma in the heart of Europe.
The Beginning and Vision
The Mahavihara was established under the visionary guidance of Venerable Ladiyangala Sudassi Thero, who arrived in Switzerland in 2005. Since 2008, based in a serene location in Herisau, the temple has served as a spiritual haven for Buddhist communities from Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and other nations. Our mission is to foster religious harmony, cultural preservation, and the sharing of Buddhist philosophy.
A Milestone: The Sacred Buddha Statue
To provide a focal point for devotion, a magnificent and serene Buddha statue was brought from Sri Lanka. This noble task was generously sponsored by Mr. Sarath Kumara and Mrs. Anoma Adhikari from Zurich. On January 1, 2009, amidst a large gathering of monks and devotees, the statue was unveiled, marking the official founding of the Mahavihara.
Our Religious and Cultural Services
Since its inception, the temple has been a pillar of spiritual and social service, conducting various annual events:
- Katina Robe Offering The most significant annual merit-making ceremony, held with the Mahasangha and devotees.
- Vesak Celebrations Commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha.
- Cultural Festivals Including Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations to preserve heritage.
- Spiritual Blessings All-night Pirith (chanting) ceremonies and Almsgivings (Dana) for the well-being of the community.
Appreciation
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the devotees and the Mahasangha from Switzerland, Germany, and Italy, whose unwavering support since 2009 has made this mission possible.
May the Triple Gem Bless You!
— Ven. Ladiyangala Sudassi Thero
Foundation
A small of Sri Lankan Buddhists temple in herisau began gathering for meditation and Dhamma discussions.
First Temple
The community acquired its first dedicated space for worship and meditation in central Herisau .
Expansion
Growing membership led to a move to a larger premises, allowing for more community activities.
Cultural Centre
The temple expanded its mission to become a cultural centre, offering language classes and cultural events.
New Chapter
Major renovation completed, establishing the temple as a landmark of Buddhist heritage in Switzerland.
Venerable Ladiyangala Sudassi Thero
Venerable Ladiyangala Sudassi Thero is a respected Buddhist monk dedicated to the preservation of Theravada teachings and spiritual practice.
Birth and Early Life
Born in the serene village of Laggala Pallegama in the Matale district, he was raised in the village of Ladiyangala. He is the son of Mr. E.M. Piyasena and Mrs. H.M.A.G. Dingiri Amma.
Ordination and Education
Following his spiritual calling, he entered the monkhood at the young age of 13. He received his primary monastic training at Sri Bodhirukkharama in Higurakgoda and Unagala Rajamaha Vihara in Polonnaruwa. He was mentored by the Most Venerable Imbulgala Sugathapala Maha Thero, the Chief Incumbent of Bisowela Rajamaha Vihara.
Higher Ordination (Upasampada)
On June 12, 1994, he received his Higher Ordination at the Upositha Pushparama Maha Vihara (Malwatu Maha Vihara) in Kandy. His preceptors were Venerable Imbulgala Sugathapala Maha Thero and Venerable Giritale Gnanissara Nayaka Thero.
Dhamma Mission and Authorship
With a deep foundation in Theravada traditions and monastic discipline, he has contributed significantly to Buddhist literature:
- The Cockroach and the Meditation Subject (Karapoththa saha Kamatahana) An introductory book on meditation, highly regarded by readers.
- Exposition of the Buddha's Words (Buddhavachana Vivaranaya) His second book, currently being compiled.
Grounded in a complete monastic education, Venerable Sudassi tirelessly works to convey the essence of the Dhamma — simply and profoundly — in a way that resonates with today's society. Alongside guiding practitioners in the meditative life, his scholarly contributions help preserve the Buddha's teachings for future generations.
"The purpose of this temple is not merely to preserve tradition, but to allow the Dhamma to live and breathe in the hearts of people here."