Kande Viharaya, Aluthgama: A Towering Seated Buddha
Kande Viharaya, on a hill above Aluthgama near Bentota, is famous for its enormous seated Buddha statue, one of the tallest of its kind in the world at around 48 metres. The old temple below has been a place of worship for over two centuries, and the giant white figure is visible from far around.
At the temple
Steps and a road climb to the great statue, with the older image house, stupa and bo tree on the way. The hilltop gives views over the coconut country and the coast.
Nearby
It is an easy detour from the beaches of Bentota and Aluthgama, and pairs with a river safari on the Bentota Ganga or a visit to Lunuganga.
Getting there
Kande Viharaya is just off the main coastal road at Aluthgama, a short ride from Bentota.
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