About this experience
Lankathilaka Viharaya is a Buddhist temple in the village of Hiyarapitiya, in the Udu Nuwara area of Kandy district. King Buwanekabahu IV of Gampola built it in 1344 AD, when Gampola was a stronghold on the banks of the Mahaveli River.
The South Indian architect Sthapati Rayar designed it, mixing Polonnaruwa-era ideas with Dravidian and Indo-Chinese ones. The plan spreads from the centre in the four cardinal directions, like a cross. It once stood four storeys and eighty feet tall on a granite foundation over uneven bedrock. Only the ground floor and part of the first survive, and the thick outer walls carry carved arches and sculptures.
Two flights of steps cut into the rock of Pahangalla lead up, with views across the countryside. The original flight dates from the 14th century; the other was built around 1913. The old route passes the monks' quarters and large rice bins known locally as Atuwa, then enters through a stone arch made of three long slabs. On top are the temple, a stupa and a Bo tree. A moonstone lies before the eastern door to the Buddha Image House, while the western side holds the Temple of the Gods.
You visit with an English-speaking local guide, who comes with your entry. Lakpura arranges the ticket in advance.
