King Parakramabahu VIII
Reign: 1484–1508 CE
Kingdom: Kotte
Country: Sri Lanka
International Connections
Parakramabahu VIII ruled Kotte for 24 years, a reign marked by Buddhist piety and growing Portuguese commercial influence. He promoted Theravada scholarship and maintained the Tooth Relic, yet could not prevent emerging European entanglements.
Parakramabahu VIII (1484–1518) ruled from Kotte for 34 years, enabling sustained regional consolidation. His lengthy tenure maintained Buddhist establishments, irrigation networks, and administrative routine. The era witnessed early Portuguese contact, foreshadowing colonial intervention.