Srī Mahā Bōdhi Temple
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Bahirawakanda Temple, officially known as the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue, is a significant landmark located in the picturesque city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Perched on Bahirawa Kanda, which translates to “Gnome Mountain,” this temple is renowned for its immense Buddha statue that dominates the skyline and is visible from various parts of the city. The Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue is one of the tallest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka, standing at approximately 88 feet (26.8 meters). It was constructed in 1992 and has since become an iconic symbol of Kandy. The statue represents the Lord Buddha in the meditation posture, exuding a sense of peace and serenity that resonates with visitors. The temple and the statue are relatively modern compared to other ancient temples in Sri Lanka, yet they attract a considerable number of devotees and tourists alike. One of the most captivating aspects of the Bahirawakanda Temple is the panoramic view it offers. From the temple grounds, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire city of Kandy, including the scenic Kandy Lake and the lush hills that surround the city. The view is particularly enchanting during the evening when the city lights up, providing a serene and mesmerizing spectacle. The temple itself is a place of worship and meditation, offering a tranquil environment for those seeking spiritual solace. It is also a hub of cultural activities, especially during Buddhist festivals such as Vesak, where the temple is adorned with lanterns and decorations, and special ceremonies are conducted. In addition to its religious significance, the Bahirawakanda Temple is steeped in local folklore. The name “Bahirawa Kanda” is derived from the belief that the hill was once inhabited by an evil spirit named Bahirawa. The construction of the Buddha statue is said to have quelled the spirit, transforming the hill into a place of peace and devotion. Visiting Bahirawakanda Temple provides a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural and religious heritage of Sri Lanka. It is a testament to the island’s enduring Buddhist traditions and the harmonious blend of spirituality and natural beauty. Whether you are a devotee or a traveler, the temple offers a serene retreat and a vantage point to appreciate the splendor of Kandy.
Shalitha WeerasinghaShalitha Weerasingha
10
Bahiravokanda vihara Buddha statue lies within few meters from Peradeniya is a huge concrete religlous monument. It is one of the numerous things to be toured and experienced in Kandy. It will take about 20 minutes to reach the statue from the Police station of Peradeniya. Travelers enjoy the Buddha statue which is 88 feet in height with the amusement created by the statute. Visitors may have to climb few stairs to this calm and peaceful spot arranged by the Buddhist monks of Sri lanka. Even though you can see the white colored Buddha statue made on the hill at a distance from the Peradeniya city. Certainly, it can be seen from almost anvwhere in Kandv city. A panoramic view of the Kandy city has appeared in the top. Indolent travelers can hire a tuk tuk or a taxi to get into the top. Perhaps it may be windy but surely it is not a steep climb. Simultaneously you may identify the Kandy lake, football stadium, and tea factory and dotted stone boulders through the outlook from the top. Frequently a better photo collection of the landscape can be taken. Bahiraviokanda vihara Buddha statue is one of the tallest and beautiful Buddha statues in Sri lanka. The hill where the statue was built called bahirava kanda, in Sinhalese it means the devil's hil. A stairway beside with the statue can be climbed for a greater height. In fact, it will be well worth to see the statue lit up at night. Some tourists believe that there isn't anything important. Rather than that, a trip to the bahiravakanda vihara Buddha statue will b a spectacular visit to Kandy's famous sites. Be sure to remove your caps and shoes or slippers before entering the premise. Devotees are expected to worship Buddha statue by offering flowers and lighting oil lamps. Henceforward the site is being developed to attract more tourists.
Daniyal SaleemDaniyal Saleem
30
Rising up above the Kandy town its just 2 km from the Dalada maligawa the temple of the Sacred tooth relic. The name “Bahirawa Kanda” means the gnome mountain. There are many beliefs in folklore pertaining to the ancient history of this mountain. According one legend there was a powerful Bahirawa Devalaya at the top of the Bahirawa Kanda where hundreds of beautiful girls had been sacrificed to Bahirawa Deviyo. These Devalayas and Kovils flourished during the days of Nayakkar Kings. So, Dunuwilla Gajanayake Nilame, chief of the Elephant department of the King interfered to release his fiancee who was sentenced to be sacrificed as Bahirawa Puja and got her released. This marked the end of the Bahirawa pooja and the Devalaya was ruined with passage of time. Another story comes with its name. In the days of Kandy kingdom there was a sound comming from this mountain, which terrified people every day. People said that it is an evil gnome shouting for a sacrifice. The king decide to give a beautiful virgin as the sacrifice every year. It was a minister who told the king to make this scarifice because he him self was the evil gnome. One year the nominated woman was the girl friend of minister’s son. In that night, people took the woman to the mountain and left he their. Later her boyfriend came and rescued her and fought the gnome. Then the boy himself made the same sound that ghome made, and the people thought the sacrifice was accepted. The couple left the town in the same night. Now a Temple is build in the top of the mountain with a massive statue of Lord Budda. When you get to the top you will get a remarkable view of Kandy Town, mountain line connected with each other and the inside of the Bogambara Prison.
Miyuru JayasekaraMiyuru Jayasekara
10
If you have never been up close to a huge buddha statue, then maybe this is your chance. But we just found the whole experience to be a little bit underwhelming. For starters, you pay to go in. Then inside you are asked for donations. Then when you leave and go to collect your shoes you're asked quite insistently for yet more donations... The view from up there is just 'ok' really when compared to so many beautiful views available in Sri Lanka (and many of them are free)... The views are also obscured quite a bit by ugly power cables and buildings. It's really nothing spectacular. We got excited when we saw some steps behind the buddha which appeared to lead you all the way up to the head. So we ran up them we anticipation, only to be confronted with a locked gate half way up! What an anti climax.... All in I would be surprised if you would want to stay any longer than 20 minutes and even that would be a push... Shame. We had high hopes.... Perhaps we've been spoilt by other large buddha statues in other countries? I mean, it is impressive! But you can appreciate it far better from a distance! If you pay to go in there really isn't anything there other than overpriced gift shops and people bagging for donations. Plus you have to crane your neck to look up at the buddha, when it can be seen at a far better angle outside.... Our advice would be save your money. Instead go to a restaurant somewhere where you can see the buddha in the distance and appreciate it from there whilst sipping on a nice cold drink that you can spend the cash on instead.....
Annalisa GaiaAnnalisa Gaia
00
This was a fun climb, maybe three or four really steep stretches but otherwise mostly easygoing. Won’t recommend climbing for the elderly though. Also, the road up here can be slightly risky given the on and off wild traffic. Some of the worst drivers (private cars and tuktuk) in Sri Lanka can be found in Kandy, as per my 30-40 day experience around the country. The view from the top is worth it. You get an almost 360-degree view of Kandy and mountains in the distance. Towards the left of the temple, you can climb a few stairs to reach the back of the Buddha statue, from where the view is again pretty cool. The entry fee for foreigners is Lanka Rupee 300 and I recommend paying it and requesting the kind gentleman at the ‘Tourist Hut’ (just at the beginning of the stairs) to hold onto your shoes. Again, this will depend on the kind of rush the place is witnessing. Also, early morning you may have to carry your shoes. There’s another place to keep your shoes right at the entrance but a bit exposed. However, as mentioned, you can also carry your shoes, if you want. They ask for donations inside but I reckon if I’m paying an entry fee, that’s a donation in itself, so no need to feel compelled to donate anything else. Rest up to you. While climbing, I did not have the luxury of windy conditions but once I reached the top it was slightly windy and it helped with the sweat. If you’re climbing, please wear trekking shoes and not sports shoes, and carry a water bottle. There’s a shop next to the temple too, selling water bottles and stuff.
Joshi JiJoshi Ji
00
Beautiful buddhist temple overlooking the city of Kandy. Serene and welcoming place open to locals and foreigners who wish to come worship and/or enjoy the beauty of the temple and its panoramic city view. Leave your shoes at the entrance or leave them with the caretaker at the entrance, but please be sure to donate in support of their services and kindness. Pants or long dress required. SHOULDERS AND LEGS MUST BE COVERED. Take your hats off as you enter. There will be Monks enforcing this, but please be respectful of their traditions and beliefs. Pay at the tourist office at the entrance going up the stairs. For 250 LKR per person you get access to the temple and the Buddha’s statue. Monks are very friendly and welcoming. Do not take selfies with the Buddha, as turning your back is disrespectful. Highly recommended at dusk or dawn. Can go up the stairs and climb the Buddha, but the top is closed off during certain times/days, so maybe ask at the entrance if that’s a dealbreaker for you. Parking can be challenging. Construction on the road out front in progress as of December 2021. A tuk tuk up for 250+ LKR is also fine, but if you have enough sunlight you can enjoy the hike up if you’re into that. Bring comfortable inexpensive shoes you don’t mind taking off, and socks if you don’t like going barefoot. Be careful going down at night, mostly because of vehicles going down fast and the streets lacking illumination.
RR
40
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Address
7JWJ+5GR, Bahirawa Kanda Rd, Kandy, Sri Lanka
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4.6
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Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is a historical sacred bo tree in the Mahamewuna Garden in historical city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
attractions: Kataragama Devalaya, Asgiri Maha Vihara pirivena, Royal Palace Park, Cool Corner fried ice cream parlor, Sahas Uyana, Amaara Sky Hotel, Devon Rest, Torrington GEM Park Kandy, Chapel of Trinity College Kandy - Holy Trinity Church, St Paul's Church, Kandy, restaurants: Cafe Nuwara, Balaji Dosai, Fab Ceylon, Pizza Hut - Kandy, Cafe The Vibe, Devon Captains Table, The Golden Curry Restaurant, Organica Lounge Kandy, CAFE 1886, Cafe Aroma Inn
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