Kande Viharaya
A sacred Buddhist temple near Aluthgama, famed for its colossal seated Buddha statue and vibrant murals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Kande Viharaya
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred Buddhist temple near Aluthgama, famed for its colossal seated Buddha statue and vibrant murals.
"Home to one of the tallest sitting Buddha statues in the world, it evokes peace and reverence."
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees. Remove shoes before entering.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Ample parking is provided before the temple ascent.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Towering Seated Buddha Statue
Temple Grounds
Marvel at one of the world's tallest seated Buddha statues, a breathtaking 160-foot marvel.
+1Vibrant Buddhist Murals
Image House
Explore detailed paintings depicting Jataka tales and scenes from Buddha's life.
Ancient Bodhi Tree
Temple Courtyard
Find peace under the shade of a sacred Bodhi tree, a significant spiritual landmark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Respectful Attire and Customs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees. Remove shoes before entering.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Ample parking is provided before the temple ascent.
🚶♀️ Temple is on a Hill
Be prepared for a short uphill walk to the main temple.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of worshippers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees. Remove shoes before entering.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Ample parking is provided before the temple ascent.
🚶♀️ Temple is on a Hill
Be prepared for a short uphill walk to the main temple.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of worshippers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kande Viharaya is widely praised for its breathtaking, towering Buddha statue and serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful spiritual experience. Visitors appreciate the free entry and well-organized facilities, though some note that the temple can feel a bit crowded and less focused on Buddha worship due to the popularity of the Devalas.
"Kande Viharaya is one of the most peaceful and spiritually rich places you can visit on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast. Located just a few minutes from Bentota and Aluthgama, this beautiful temple sits on a small hill surrounded by lush greenery — the name literally means “Temple on the Hill.”
The first thing you’ll notice is the towering Buddha statue, one of the tallest sitting Buddha statues in Asia. It’s an incredible sight, visible even from the main road, and looks especially breathtaking during sunrise or sunset. Inside the temple grounds, you’ll find beautifully detailed murals, ancient carvings, and quiet spots for reflection. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, even if you’re not Buddhist — everyone is encouraged to explore respectfully.
The temple is well maintained, and the locals are kind and helpful if you need guidance or wish to make an offering. It’s a great place to learn a bit about Sri Lankan culture and Buddhist history while also enjoying some amazing views of the surrounding area.
If you’re visiting Bentota, Kande Viharaya is a must-see — peaceful, scenic, and spiritually uplifting. Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and experience the tranquility at its best."
Hiruni Natalia
"The Aluthgama Kande Viharaya Temple is considered as an establishment dating from the 1700s. Earlier the Image house was the white coloured, unique designed one situated along with the "Devala"s and the Bodhi tree. In 2007 a gigantic Samadhi Buddha statue depicting the Bhoomisparsha Mudra has been opened in the temple premises. The statue is said to be 48.8 m (160 ft) in height and considered as one of tallest sitting Buddha statues in the world. However most Buddhists were seen to be offering their "Pooja"s to God Vishnu in the Devala inside. There's even a big hall to prepare the Poojas. Outside the main temple premises also there are some devalas, probably from the olden times. The old image house and the Bodhiya are considered very old. Parking available before you come up the small hill where the temple is situated. There was police present at the gate as well. Probably due to the large crowds, the place felt a bit dirty. As most people were there to just conduct their Deva Poojas and not to worship Lord Buddha it's probably understandable although slightly appalling."
Kanchana Ranasinghe
"This temple can be accessed easily when the Google map is followed.
It's an ancient Buddhist Temple and it has an iconic statue of Lord Buddha.
The temple is well organised and the car park facilities are available free of charge.
Devotees should remove slippers at the entrance where they have this well organised place to keep them before entering the temple.
Inside the temple there are many paintings which depict the stories from Buddhism."
SP UK
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kande Viharaya is located near Aluthgama town. It's easily accessible by following Google Maps. Many visitors arrive by car, and parking is available.
Yes, the temple is well-signposted and can be easily located using navigation apps.
You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Colombo to Aluthgama, and then a short tuk-tuk ride to the temple. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Local buses frequently run to Aluthgama from major towns along the coast. From Aluthgama, a tuk-tuk is the most convenient way to reach the temple.
While the main temple is on a hill, some areas might be challenging for wheelchairs. It's advisable to check on-site for specific accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Kande Viharaya. It's a free-to-enter religious site.
The temple is generally open from early morning until late afternoon, typically around 4:30 AM to 7:30 PM. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. You can visit anytime during opening hours.
Visitors must dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. It's a sacred Buddhist temple, so respectful attire is mandatory.
There is a well-organized area at the entrance to leave your slippers before entering the temple premises.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful of worshippers and avoid taking photos during prayer ceremonies.
While most areas are fine for photos, always be mindful of sacred spaces and avoid intrusive photography.
The towering Buddha statue, the vibrant murals, and the ancient Bodhi tree offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically not permitted at religious sites to maintain peace and respect. It's best to assume it's not allowed.
Short videos for personal use are usually acceptable, but commercial filming might require special permission. Be considerate of others.
🎫 🙏 Onsite Experience
Kande Viharaya is a historically significant Buddhist temple, known for its towering Buddha statue and spiritual ambiance. It's a place of worship and reflection.
You can admire the giant Buddha statue, explore the murals depicting Buddhist stories, visit the ancient Bodhi tree, and experience the serene atmosphere.
Crowds can vary. Weekends and holidays might be busier with local pilgrims. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours offers a more serene experience.
Basic facilities are usually available, but it's always a good idea to use restrooms before arriving or be prepared for simple amenities.
Devalas are shrines dedicated to deities. While Kande Viharaya is a Buddhist temple, it also houses shrines for Hindu deities, reflecting religious harmony in Sri Lanka.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more comfortable for kids, consider visiting during cooler parts of the day and bringing water. Ensure they understand the importance of respectful behavior in a religious site. The free parking and lack of an entrance fee also make it a budget-friendly option for families.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Meditators
The temple's location on a hill provides a sense of detachment from the hustle and bustle, allowing for deeper introspection. Visitors often describe a profound sense of peace and spiritual connection during their time here.
📸 Photographers & Culture Enthusiasts
+1Beyond the visual appeal, the temple offers a deep dive into Sri Lankan Buddhist culture and history. Understanding the stories behind the murals and the significance of the Devalas can enrich the experience for culture enthusiasts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Buddha Statue
+1The statue was inaugurated in 2007, adding a modern marvel to the ancient temple complex. Its construction represents a significant feat of engineering and devotion, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike to witness its grandeur. The surrounding area is designed to offer unobstructed views, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its monumental scale and artistic detail.
Pro Tip: Visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for a truly magical photographic experience, as the light casts a warm glow on the statue.
A Glimpse into Buddhist Narratives
These paintings are not just decorative; they are integral to the temple's spiritual and cultural significance. The artistry and detail involved in their creation are remarkable, showcasing traditional Sri Lankan art forms. Spending time observing these narratives provides a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy and history.
Community Insight: Some visitors find these murals to be a powerful reminder of the temple's history and the enduring legacy of Buddhist teachings.
The Sacred Bodhi Tree and Devalas
Interestingly, Kande Viharaya also features Devalas, which are shrines dedicated to various deities, often found in Sri Lankan Buddhist temples. These shrines, some dating back to older times, reflect the syncretic nature of religious practices in the region, where Buddhist and Hindu traditions often intertwine. Devotees frequently offer poojas (prayers) at these Devalas.
Traveler's Note: While the main focus is the Buddha statue, don't overlook the spiritual significance of the Bodhi tree and the Devalas, which offer a more nuanced view of local religious customs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit