Nalanda Gedige is a unique ancient Sinhalese construction. The temple, standing on the ruins of the monastery, was built in the 8-10 centures AD and combines two styles - Buddhism and Hinduism. Kings of Sri Lanka married Indian princesses, and the temple was a place for both. The construction is distinguished by skillful decoration carved in the stone walls. It is the only such temple on the island.
According to information in the Internet, the temple is located in the very center of Sri Lanka. Not sure that it's true, I opened a map and checked - it is in the central area. But scientists in Sri Lanka also want to earn some money, so they calculated the center :)
Location of the temple is not accidental, the center of the island is perfectly suitable for measurement of time and sunset by ancient Sinhalese. Gedige in Sinhala means a bell house, therefore it can be assumed that in ancient times local residents were informed about time of the day with a bell. In 1975, because of water reservoir construction, the temple was dismantled and moved about 80 feet away!
The temple is hardly visited by tourists because of the location. Entry fee is about $5-6.
Path to the Nalanda Gedige Temple ©Yuriy Buriak
Nalanda Gedige Buddhist Temple ©Yuriy Buriak
Nalanda Gedige Buddhist Temple ©Yuriy Buriak
Nalanda Gedige Buddhist Temple ©Yuriy Buriak
Getting there: The temple is located near the Kandy - Dambulla road, 20 kilometers to the north of Aluvihara and Matale, and 45 kilometers to the north of Kandy.
