Bahirawakanda: The Giant White Buddha Over Kandy
Bahirawakanda Vihara sits on a hilltop above Kandy, crowned by one of the tallest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka. The large white seated figure is visible from much of the city and lights up at night. The temple terrace doubles as one of the best viewpoints over Kandy.
The statue and temple
The seated Buddha rises many metres above the shrine, and you can walk around its base. As at all temples, dress modestly, cover shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering.
The view
From the hilltop you look down over Kandy lake, the city and the surrounding green ridges. Late afternoon light is lovely, and the statue is floodlit after dark.
Getting up
You can drive or take a tuk tuk most of the way up the winding road, then walk the final steps. A small donation or entry contribution is customary.
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