Kande Viharaya Temple
Sacred Buddhist Sanctuary of Aluthgama
Welcome to Kande Viharaya: A Spiritual Haven
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the coastal town of Aluthgama, Kande Viharaya is one of Sri Lanka's most revered Buddhist temples. This sacred site is home to one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world, standing at an impressive 48.8 meters (160 feet) tall and visible from miles around.
With a history dating back to 1734, this temple complex offers visitors a peaceful sanctuary for reflection and spiritual connection. Beyond its religious significance, Kande Viharaya provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a must-visit destination for both pilgrims and travelers seeking cultural enrichment.
The Sacred History of Kande Viharaya
The historic temple buildings of Kande Viharaya with traditional Sri Lankan Buddhist architecture
Kande Viharaya was established in 1734 by Karapagala Dewamitta Thero, under the guidance of Udugama Chandrasara Thero. The name "Kande Viharaya" translates to "Mountain Temple," reflecting its hilltop location that has made it a landmark for centuries.
Throughout its history, the temple has been expanded and enhanced by successive chief monks. The most significant addition came in recent decades with the construction of the massive seated Buddha statue, which has transformed the temple into a major pilgrimage site.
The temple played an important role during colonial times as a center for preserving Buddhist education and culture. Today, it continues to serve as both a place of worship for locals and an important cultural attraction that showcases Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage.
Sacred Treasures to Discover
The centerpiece of Kande Viharaya is its magnificent seated Buddha statue:
- Standing 48.8 meters (160 feet) tall
- Visible from miles around the countryside
- Depicts Buddha in the Bhoomisparsha Mudra (earth-touching gesture)
- Completed and opened to the public in 2007
The Image House contains some of the temple's most sacred treasures:
- Ancient Buddha statues in various poses
- Intricate wall paintings depicting Buddha's life
- Traditional Sri Lankan Buddhist art
- Peaceful atmosphere for meditation
Kande Viharaya has several Hindu shrines (devalas) on the temple grounds. Many people visit these shrines to make offerings, fulfill vows (bara), and ask for blessings. The main devalas include:
- Upulvan Devala - dedicated to God Upulvan (Vishnu), the guardian deity of Sri Lanka who protects the island and its people
- Kataragama Devala - shrine for God Kataragama (Skanda), the war god who helps devotees overcome obstacles and enemies
- Pattini Devala - dedicated to Goddess Pattini, who is prayed to for health, protection from diseases, and rainfall
- Kali Devala - shrine for Goddess Kali, the powerful deity worshipped for protection from evil and negative forces
- Ganesha Shrine - dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and new beginnings, often worshipped before starting important tasks
Devotees often light oil lamps, offer flowers and coconuts, and perform rituals to fulfill promises they made when seeking help. This shows how Buddhism and Hindu traditions exist together peacefully in Sri Lankan culture.
Did You Know?
Bara (Vows): When people face problems or want something special, they make a promise (bara) to the gods. If their wish comes true, they return to the temple to fulfill their promise by offering coconuts, flowers, or performing special rituals.
Cultural Harmony: Even though Kande Viharaya is a Buddhist temple, having Hindu shrines here shows how different religions respect each other in Sri Lanka. Both Buddhists and Hindus visit these shrines.
Special Days: On full moon days (Poya) and Hindu festival days, you'll see many devotees making offerings at these shrines. The atmosphere becomes very spiritual with the smell of incense and sound of prayers.
If you are lucky, sometimes Temple's elephant can be seen in the temple grounds. The elephant of Kande Viharaya is used in many Buddhist ceremonies.
- Walking beneath the temple’s elephant was considered a special experience that many believed brought good health. According to local tradition, passing under an elephant’s body was thought to make children strong and protect them from illness.
- While preserving religious culture and traditions, it’s important to acknowledge growing concerns about the treatment of temple elephants, as reports have highlighted issues of confinement and neglec
The temple's stupa is an important sacred structure:
- Traditional bell-shaped design in gleaming white
- Contains sacred relics according to Buddhist tradition
- Devotees circumambulate it as a meditation practice
- Offers peaceful views of the surrounding area
The temple's elevated position offers spectacular views:
- Sweeping vistas of Aluthgama town
- Views of the Indian Ocean on clear days
- Lush green landscapes of the surrounding countryside
- Perfect for photography, especially at sunset
Temple Etiquette: Dos and Don'ts
Best Photo Opportunities:
- • The giant Buddha statue from different angles
- • Panoramic views from the temple grounds
- • Traditional architecture details
- • Sunset views with the Buddha silhouette
Respectful Photography:
- • Always ask permission before photographing people
- • No flash photography inside temple buildings
- • Respect "no photography" signs in sacred areas
- • Don't pose inappropriately with religious objects
Practical Information
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM daily
Free (donations appreciated)
Early morning or late afternoon for best lighting and fewer crowds
1-2 hours
2-3 hours by car or train to Aluthgama
10-15 minutes by tuk-tuk or taxi
Tuk-tuks available from Aluthgama town center
Involves climbing stairs; comfortable shoes recommended
Nearby Attractions
Beautiful beach destination just 10 minutes from Kande Viharaya. Perfect for relaxation after temple visit.
Former home of landscape architect Bevis Bawa with beautiful tropical gardens and art collection.
Former home of landscape architect Bevis Bawa with beautiful tropical gardens and art collection.
Explore the biodiversity of Madu River's mangrove ecosystem with a boat safari through narrow channels.
Kande Viharaya offers a perfect blend of spiritual significance, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a moment of peaceful reflection, interested in Buddhist architecture, or simply want to enjoy panoramic views, this hilltop temple provides a memorable experience.
Take your time to absorb the serene atmosphere, observe local devotees in prayer, and appreciate the craftsmanship that went into creating this sacred space. The giant Buddha statue serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mindfulness and inner peace.
May your visit to Kande Viharaya bring you tranquility and inspiration! 🙏✨