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  • 5/5 Roshan Kalpa T. 2 years ago on Google
    The Lankatilaka Raja Maha Vihara (also known as the Lankatilaka Temple or the Blue Temple), is located in Hiyarapitiya in the Udunuwara area of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s hill capital. It was constructed as a four storey building that stood eighty feet high and sits on an uneven rock bed overlooking the Hantane mountain range. The history of Lankatilaka Vihara dates back to the Gampola era and was constructed during that time under the patronage of King Buwanekabahu IV in 1344 AD. Lankatilaka is a most unique structure in itself, having been built entirely atop an uneven rock surface and rising upto a height of eighty feet. Based on inscriptions to be found on the Temple’s copper plaque, one learns that the foundation of granite was laid on the rock surface and the rest of the structure was made of bricks. Beautiful arches and sculptures enhance the thick outer walls, making this an architectural marvel of that era. There are many inscriptions in both Sinhala and Tamil languages cut into the solid rock which describe the facilities provided to the Temple and the land gifted by Kings who ruled then. According to historical reports King Buwanekabahu IV entrusted the construction of this Temple to his Chief Minister Senalankadhikara. South Indian architect Sthapati Rayar was responsible for the design which blends Sinhalese architecture of the Polonnaruwa period with Dravidian and Indo Chinese styles. The Temple building took the shape of a cross with the four sides protruding outward. Although it was originally four storeys high, all that remains today are the ground floor and part of the first floor. Lankatilaka was dedicated to the worship of Lord Buddha as well as several deities including Deitys Vishnu, Saman, Vibhishana, Ganapathi, Skandhakumara and Kumara Bandara (to whom the Temple was entrusted). It can be seen that the people of that era who resided in the Gampola and Kandyan kingdoms not only had a strong belief in the worship of deities, but were also devoted followers of the Buddha and His teachings. The Lankatilaka Raja Maha Vihara can be approached from two directions. One entrance is through the Sanghawasa, located at the bottom of the rock from where the steps leading to the Vihara begin. One can see large rice storage bins known as ‘Atuwa’ within the premises. A breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape can be enjoyed while ascending the stone stairway. The Vihara complex comprises of the Temple building, the Dagoba (Chaithya) and the Bo tree. A large image of Lord Budhha’s footprint carved of stone and known as the Buddha Siripatula can be seen near the Bodhigharaya. The preaching hall stands in front of the main Temple entrance and a remarkable feature is that its roof is thatched with flat tiles while round tiles cover the central part of the roof creating beautiful patterns. The main Temple or Buddha Image House is built of granite covered with plaster and extends three storeys high. Stunning examples of architectural design and wall paintings adorn the walls and ceiling inside this building providing a scene of rich colour and skillful craftsmanship. A Moonstone or ‘Sandakadapahana’ lies at the entrance flanked by two Korawakgalas (balustrades) bearing the Gajasinha design. Enter through the arched doorway and the eye is drawn towards the two paintings of lion figures which have become one of the most recognisable and unique features of Lankatilaka Vihara. A statue of the Seated Buddha sheltered by a Dragon Arch or ‘Makara Torana’ takes pride of place within the Image House’s interior. Surrounding the statue are designs of trees and flowers which promote the ‘Bodhi’ concept, and the walls are adorned by paintings from ‘Suvisi Vivarana’ (the lives of the twenty four previous Buddhas).
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bhashini A. 2 years ago on Google
    ☸☸☸☸☸ ----------- 💫Lankatilaka is Buddhist temple of the 14th century in the Hiyarapitiya village, from the Udu Nuwara area of Kandy district in Sri Lanka. This historical temple was built by the Gampola king, King Buwanekabahu the fourth (1341 – 1351AD), in 1344 AD. Gampola was a stronghold on the banks of Mahaveli River. * Architectural Facts 👇 The temple was designed by the South Indian architect Sthapati Rayar. According to the opinions of researchers; the temple combines the design elements of the Polonnaruwa era architecture with that of Dravidian (India) and Indo-Chinese design. At the time of construction the temple was a four storied edifice of eighty feet, built on uneven bedrock using a granite based foundation. The temple structure is such that it radiates from the centre in the four cardinal directions, like a cross. Only then ground floor and part of the first floor of the original temple can be seen today, though the temple appears to have three stories from the outside. The thick outer walls of the Temple have beautifully sculpted arches and various sculptures making it a unique design of the 14th century. 💫The temple premises have three sectors; the actual temple building, the Dagoba or stupa and finally the Bo tree 💫The Lankatilaka Temple is a beautiful cultural heritage of Sri Lanka that has to be visited on a holiday to the country. This temple along with the Embekke temple remains one of the most architecturally advanced structures of the Gampola  Kingdom era.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sanathanan R. 3 years ago on Google
    Temple found on a top of a hill Very beautiful view. The temple is very beautiful and very nice architecture. Different architecture. It is said by the Buddhist monk that this temple was built by the help of Pallavaas from Tamil Nadu. And it reflects some Hindu aspects also. The monk explained that the Buddha status is different from other statues found in Anuradhapura. Hindu God's pictures also can be seen inside. We can see inscription on the mountain. Tamil and sinhala old language letters can be seen. Very ancient one built by Kings.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 princy r. 1 year ago on Google
    A temple which contains a majestic combination of architectural design, one is Chinese and other is the usage of traditions which was used in Anuradhapura and Polonnaru era buildings . We also can see arches which provides colonial style even. The structure is a bit simmilar to the gedige style which are build by stone blocks. First floor is the shrine which contain kandyan era paintings and a huge buddha statue. Right hand from the buddha statue is the drawing of a king and on the both side walls we can see solosmasthàna , parinirvàna of the buddha etc but no jathaka stories have been drawn
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Oksana N. 2 years ago on Google
    Must see place with great energy and atmosphere. And nearby is the shop by a men who carved wooden elephants for 45 years already
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pabodha W. 2 years ago on Google
    It's one of the most beautiful temple that I've visited. Very calm and scenic, gives you the feeling of an old temple.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sasanka V. 1 year ago on Google
    Lankathilaka Rajamaha Viharaya is a historic Buddhist temple located in Hapitigama, near Kandy in Sri Lanka. The temple is known for its impressive architecture and beautiful artwork, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The temple was built in the 14th century and features a unique fusion of Indian and Sinhalese architectural styles. Its towering brick walls and intricate carvings are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the ancient Sri Lankan builders. The temple's main hall, in particular, is a marvel of engineering and design, with a massive dome that rises over 50 feet high. The artwork within the temple is equally impressive, with vivid murals and frescoes that depict scenes from Buddhist mythology and Sri Lankan history. Visitors can also see a statue of the Buddha that dates back to the temple's construction, as well as several other ancient relics and artifacts. In addition to its architectural and artistic wonders, Lankathilaka Rajamaha Viharaya is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. The temple is situated atop a hill, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and mountains. Overall, Lankathilaka Rajamaha Viharaya is a fascinating and awe-inspiring destination for anyone interested in Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage. Its unique architecture, beautiful artwork, and natural beauty make it a must-visit for tourists and locals alike.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paul F. 4 years ago on Google
    This temple was the highlight for me from the 3 recommended in Lonely Planet. It has a great view of the surrounding mountains and had intricate paintings inside. Unfortunately we could only visit the Buddhist side, as the Hindu side was shut when we were there. The doors are normally closed and someone may approach you to lead you inside, given that you have gotten a ticket.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Randika A. 2 years ago on Google
    The Lankatilaka Raja Maha Vihara (also known as the Lankatilaka Temple or the Blue Temple), is located in Hiyarapitiya in the Udunuwara area of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s hill capital. It was constructed as a four storey building that stood eighty feet high and sits on an uneven rock bed overlooking the Hantane mountain range. The history of Lankatilaka Vihara dates back to the Gampola era and was constructed during that time under the patronage of King Buwanekabahu IV in 1344 AD.

  • 5/5 Niroshan P. 9 months ago on Google
    Lankatilaka Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist shrine located in the village of Udunuwara in the Kandy administrative district of Sri Lanka. It is located at a distance of about 4 km from Pirimathalawa junction on the Daulagala road. You can take the path that falls from Embekke Devalaya and walk about 1.5km through a small trail called "Stone staircase" or Gal Padipela, which runs through and connects the "Lankathilake Temple Road", Lankathilake wee atuwa" and the back entrance to the Temple. This trail is not found in the Google map (at least by the time I wrote this review) and I added it to the map and is waiting for approval. Lankatilaka Viharaya is considered to be a design that shows the most excellent architectural features built during the Gampola period. The history of Lankatilaka Vihara dates back to 14th century. According to ancient sources, it is believed that this temple was built by King Bhuvanekabahu IV (1341-1351 AD). It is said that the king assigned the construction of this temple to his chief minister Senadhilankara, who built the temple with the help of Satapati Rayar in South Indian architecture. According to the archaeologist Mr. Senarath Paranavitana, Sathapati Rayar used the Sinhala, Dravidian and Indochinese architecture patterns of the Polonnaru period in the construction of the Lankatilaka temple. Temple buildings are built on a natural rock. The statue has its own unique traditional Sinhala sculptural and architectural features. Its inner walls are composed of Kandy era paintings. The information related to the Lankathilaka copper plate found in the temple reveals that the idol house, which currently has only three floors, had four floors at that time. In addition to this, inscriptions in both Sinhala and Tamil languages can be seen in the temple premises, which tell about the chiefs made to the temple by the kings. Lankathilaka Vihara consists of five shrines where the deities of Vishnu, Ganadevi, Sumana Saman, Vibhishana and Kumara Bandara are worshipped. Min Kumara Bandara is believed to be the deity who protects Lankatilaka temple.

  • 5/5 Buddhimal W. 10 months ago on Google
    Sri Lankathilake Rajamaha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the historic city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. This temple is known for its rich history, intricate architecture, and stunning works of art. The temple was built during the reign of King Parakramabahu IV in the 14th century, and it is one of the largest and most well-preserved temples of the Gampola era. The temple is located on a picturesque hill overlooking the scenic Hantana mountain range, and it is surrounded by lush greenery. The Sri Lankathilake Rajamaha Viharaya is renowned for its intricate carvings and beautiful frescoes that adorn its walls and ceilings. The temple's main shrine is dedicated to the Buddha, and it features a 15-meter-high statue of the seated Buddha in a peaceful meditative pose. The temple also features several other shrines dedicated to other Buddhist deities, including a shrine dedicated to the Hindu goddess Pattini, who is venerated by both Buddhists and Hindus in Sri Lanka. Visitors to the temple can take a guided tour of the complex and explore the many beautiful works of art and architecture that adorn its walls and ceilings. The temple also hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the annual Perahera festival, which is one of the largest and most colorful festivals in Sri Lanka.

  • 4/5 Gamini E. 1 year ago on Google
    Historic location. Recommended to visit

  • 5/5 Tharindu R. 2 years ago on Google
    Ancient and valuable temple build during the Gampola Kingdom.

  • 5/5 Lahiru G. 2 years ago on Google
    Lankathilaka buddhist temple is a very attractive place situated 4km away from pilimathalawa town. This is a historical place with amazing environment, and also you can see a good view of hanthana and katusukonda mountains. There is a old epigraph you can see with a translation. Worth to watch.

  • 5/5 Geeth Nuwan P. 2 years ago on Google
    The great srilankan history and outstanding architecture can be seen here.

  • 5/5 Thisara de s. 4 years ago on Google
    A must visit temple in Kandy. Recommended for the beautiful view and the serene atmosphere of this temple. Visiting here will be an ideal side tour when you are visiting Kandy.

  • 5/5 Tharindu Yapa A. 4 years ago on Google
    A must visit historic place near Kandy! Very beautiful!!

  • 4/5 Chamoth L. 4 years ago on Google
    Very lonely, but a nice ancient temple. The monk anyhow left and I could not go inside the shrine room just saw the outside. Also the temple is on a rock and looks amazing. Bees are flying here and there be careful..

  • 5/5 Darshana N. 3 years ago on Google
    Magnificent architecture Buddhist Temple Built over rock By using bricks.

  • 5/5 Charuka J. 2 years ago on Google
    Very ancient Buddhist temple.. beautiful view around the temple..


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