Having a reputation of being one of the finest examples of Buddhist temple architecture, Gadaladeniya Viharaya certainly deserves to be among the main attractions that you are planning to see in Kandy.

The temple is located in Pilimatalave on the road Kandy - Colombo and is famous for its beautiful stone carvings.

Filled with the architectural style of South India, this temple was built during the reign of King Gampola Vikramabahu somewhere around 1344. Typically, such as the ancient temples Gadaladeniya Viharaya today is not to retain the charm that has been in the past. Not only that comes to our days. But in this temple it is still possible to catch those great features of a Buddhist temple, which was conceived from the beginning of its construction. For example, on the front door, carved out of wood, there are still remnants of the paintings, which are an integral part of the architecture of temples in Kandy. In addition, you should pay attention to the murals and pictures that give the temple to its original appearance.

An important feature of the architecture of Buddhist temples is that they are carved out of stone and Gadaladeniya Viharaya here is no exception. The temple has a sanctuary with a statue of Buddha inside and four standing Buddha images. But what makes it truly special Gadaladeniya Viharaya, is its location on top of a hill, offering a truly spectacular view of the surrounding areas.