The International Buddhist Museum, the first of its kind in Sri Lanka, opened on May 20. Among those attending the opening ceremony were Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa, dignitaries and diplomats from foreign countries.

The Museum is situated in campus of an ancient pagoda in Kandy. It provides visitors with knowledge about the Buddhist culture as well as the development and influence of Buddhism in the world.

Many countries showcased their objects on the historical value of Buddhism in separate chambers during the festival held by Sri Lanka from May 17-22 to mark the 2,600th anniversary of the enlightenment of Lord Buddha and his birthday.