The Department of Pali is the most significant and central department at the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka. The very name of the university includes the word Pali, highlighting the importance of the Pali language and its vital role in Buddhism. The early Theravāda Buddhist scriptures are primarily written in Pali. Therefore, a true understanding of Buddhism is not possible without knowledge of the Pali language.

As the leading department at the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka, the Department of Pali welcomes hundreds of students each year and offers undergraduate, postgraduate, certificate, and diploma courses in Pali. The department also organizes various extracurricular activities annually to enrich the learning experience of Pali language students.

Our ultimate goal is to produce erudite scholars who can grasp the authentic teachings of the Buddha and share them both locally and internationally.

It is my sincere wish that this department will continue to develop to an even higher standard and render greater service to the world through the preservation and promotion of the Pali language and Buddhist teachings.