Buddhism in Sri Lanka has a rich history that dates back to the 3rd century BCE, when it was introduced by Mahinda, the son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka. The religion quickly became the dominant faith on the island, influencing its culture, art, and architecture. Today, approximately 70% of the population identifies as Buddhist, primarily following the Theravada tradition. The country is home to many important Buddhist sites, including the sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy and the ancient city of Anuradhapura. Monasteries and temples play a vital role in community life, and festivals such as Vesak celebrate key events in the life of Buddha.