Sri Lanka has a rich history of Buddhism. In this backdrop, our island is embellished with ancient Buddhist temples that have inspired generations of ardent devotees. The Central Province and Kandy in particular has some of our important temples, of which the Temple of the Tooth, the Sri Dalada Maligawa, remains the most significant Buddhist sanctum.

Influenced by continuing religious zeal, another temple is steadily becoming popular - the Nelligala Temple. I set off on Monday morning with my Buddhist friend Kumuduni to gain a deeper insight into this peaceful Buddhist abode that is located at the top of a mountain.

We boarded an intercity bus from Pettah at 5 am. Most of the city was still

awakening as the bus moved out of the city limits. By 6 am, we were passing the town of Ambepussa. By 8 am, we were in Pilimathalawa. We were advised to get off at a point called Aladeniya, a quaint village. Right next to this bus stop, there is a three-wheeler park and these obliging taxi drivers will take you to the temple. The distance is roughly about five or six kilometres. There are buses that go to the temple, but one has to wait.

On the way, we passed a small town where time seems to standstill. The shops here still displayed the vintage charm of the 1970s. The early morning mist in the village of Muruthalawa still prevailed and enhanced the stunning views along a winding road. We could make out mountains covered with lush foliage. The final kilometre of the road leading to the Nelligala International Buddhist Centre was neatly carpeted. At regular intervals, there were large pots, painted in gold paint standing like sentinels along the way. The temple has been wisely planned and built. There is a large and safe car park.

A friendly police sergeant who was on duty greeted us. There are shops selling fresh flowers and other Buddhist offerings. The unblemished air was so refreshing. One of the impressive first visuals is that of three massive Buddhist flags, flying jubilantly from a rock. A beautiful stone stairway leads to a celestial setting. For senior citizens and people with mobility impairments, there is a separate safe path which provides wheelchair access. This is highly commendable as all people can access this temple and worship.

As we climbed the stairway, on our left, we saw a pond with a statue of the Buddha. On the right-hand side is a modern dhana shalawa (dining hall). Within minutes, we reached the summit and the panoramic view was amazing. This spectacular landscape of hills, green tea estates and lush woodlands set the positive mood to appreciate this wonderful International Buddhist Centre. I must also emphasise that at some temples which I have visited, there is a rush as people move, but at serene Nelligala, there is so much space due to prudent planning, which allows for a true spiritual engagement.