The three-temple trail is a visit to three enchanting temples in Kandy, built between the 15th and 17th centuries. A single trip to– Embekke, Lankathilake, and Gadaladeniya – is via a scenic 7km (4 mile) path, located just 12 km southwest of Kandy.
For the best experience, we recommend an exploration on foot, if you can start in the early hours of the morning. The walk promises to be an immersive experience as you are exposed to the vibrant culture and surroundings while the temples’ architectural marvels and historical significance will be sure to satisfy your curiosity.
Built-in the 14th century, this temple is renowned for its exquisite stone carvings. Faded paintings offer a glimpse into its construction techniques showcasing a fascinating blend of influences, incorporating elements from Indian, Polonnaruwa, and even Indo-Chinese styles. This unique amalgamation creates a visually stunning and historically significant structure.
Within the temple walls lie two shrines that capture the essence of Buddhist devotion. The main shrine houses a majestic statue of the seated Buddha, radiating peace as he meditates under an elaborate Makara Thorana (a decorative archway designed as a mythical dragon). The secondary shrine is a large stupa standing at the centre, surrounded by four smaller stupas with a seated Buddha statue.
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Standing majestically on a rocky crest overlooking the Hantana Mountain range, Lankathilake Vihare is not just a sacred temple, but once housed the King’s Royal residence.
The Main Shrine houses a majestic statue of the Lord Buddha sitting in meditation, bathed in the soft glow filtering through the elaborate Makara Thorana.
The Secondary Shrine has a Hindu architectural theme with images of various Hindu deities, but mainly dedicated to the God Vishnu.
Prepare to be awestruck by this architectural marvel. The sheer size and intricate design of the hall leave visitors wondering how this wooden structure remains standing. The secret lies in the ornate pillars and a giant catch pin on the roof, meticulously designed to evenly distribute the weight and ensure stability. The hall’s unique design is said to have inspired elements of the Independence Memorial Hall in Colombo.
A majestic statue of the Lord Buddha sits in meditation, bathed in the soft glow filtering through the elaborate Makara Thorana, a mythical dragon archway. Gazing outwards, the statue is surrounded by the lush beauty of the Hanthana Mountain Range, a perfect picture of peace.
The main shrine houses a majestic statue of the seated Buddha, radiating peace as he meditates under an elaborate Makara Thorana (a decorative archway of a mythical dragon)
Start the visit at Gadaladeniya Temple at Gadaladeniya Junction
Gadaladeniya Rajamaha Viharaya
Sri Saddharmathilaka Raja Maha Viharaya, Gadaladeniya, Pilimathalawa.
Kandy
Colombo 20000
Tel: +94 7166 22 392
Website: https://gadaladeniyarajamahaviharaya.lk
E-Mail: gadaladeniyarajamahaviharaya@gmail.com
Tickets
Prices (in Sri Lankan rupees as of June 2024)
LKR 350 entrance to Gadaladeniya, Lankathilake and Embekke (cost is per Temple)
Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM