The Buddhist Heritage of Gadaladeniya Temple, Kandy

Perched on a rock outcrop west of Kandy, Gadaladeniya Vihara (also known as Saddharmatilaka Vihara or Dharma Kirthi Viharaya) is a testament to Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage. Built during King Bhuvanekabahu IV’s reign, this sacred site is a unique blend of Sinhalese and South Indian Dravidian architecture.

Along with Lankatilaka and Embekka Devala, Gadaldeniya temple in Kandy has unique features in terms of its architecture, paintings, sculpture, and religious significance. It is worth visiting if you are in the Kandyan province.

The Viharaya’s History

Gadaldeniya is one of the most ancient temples in Kandy and was constructed in the 14th century, during the reign of King Buwanekabahu IV. He reigned between 1341 and 1351 and established the Gampola kingdom. Built on a rock platform under the supervision of the monk, Ven. Seelavansa Dharmakirthi, it is carved from rock. Its architecture is a mixture of South Indian Vijayanagar and Buddhist styles.

According to the rock inscription found in the premises, its architect was a South Indian, named Ganeshwaraji. A later king, Parakramabahu the VI of Kotte (15th century) is also noted to have carried out repairs in the temple. It is reputed to be the largest rock temple in the island.

Shrine Rooms

The complex consists of the main shrine room at the entry level, a flat stone roofed structure made of dressed granite stone. It is approached through a short flight of steps leading to a porch and vestibule, all of carved granite.

Inside the main shrine is a statue of the seated Buddha, under a richly adorned traditional Makara Thorana or the Dragon Arch surrounded by four standing images of the Buddha. The wooden doors to the main shrine have been beautifully embellished in floral motifs, still retaining a fresh look.

The reliquary containing sacred relics is to the left. Atop the main shrine is the sikhara, originally octagonal in shape but now in the form of a dagoba, surrounded by four smaller dagobas on the four cardinal points, all in brick.

These are also built over four flat roofed smaller shrines, all of which are supported on a dressed rock plinth. The main dagoba is today protected by a canopy supported on four columns with a traditional Kandyan roof.

To the left of the main structure is a secondary shrine or devala, dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Some paintings of incidents from the Jataka Tales (stories of the life of Gautama Buddha) are found here.

Stone carvings of elephants, Devas and mythical creatures, musicians, dancers and flowers are found at the entry porch, scattered in niches in the main shrine within the complex. These are skillfully and intricately carved.

Gadaldeniya Rock Inscription

Much of the information relating to the donation of lands and the building of the temple are found in the inscriptions carved on the rock platform at the entrance to the shrine. There are four in all, dating to the 14th century. They concern those persons connected to the building of the shrine, such as King Buvenekabahu, Thero Seelavansa, Dharmakirti, its designer, other noblemen, along with its architectural and artistic features and references to place names.

Visiting Gadaldeniya

As one of the most important temples in Kandy, the complex is open throughout the year. The best times to visit are early morning and late evening when the sun is not too hot and the heat reflected from the rock is supportable. Since this is a place of religious veneration, visitors are advised to be modestly dressed with shoulders and legs covered.

The elevated site also offers a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside with the hills of the Kandyan province in the distance. While you’re at it, explore nearby attractions like the Temple of Tooth and Kandy lake. Find the best things to do in Kandy located near top hotels such as Jetwing Kandy Gallery.

Gadaladeniya Temple is more than a journey through Sri Lankan history. It’s a peaceful haven where visitors can discover the culture and history of Kandy.