Natha Devale Kandy
Kandy's oldest sacred building, a 14th-century stone temple steeped in royal history and spiritual significance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Natha Devale Kandy
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Kandy's oldest sacred building, a 14th-century stone temple steeped in royal history and spiritual significance.
"A truly enchanting destination, well worth the ticket price and the time required for a visit. "
Dress Modestly :dress:
Cover shoulders and knees. White attire is recommended to blend with locals.
Allocate Enough Time :stopwatch:
Don't rush; explore the ancient architecture and spiritual ambiance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Carved Stone Gateway
Temple Entrance
An ancient, intricately carved stone gateway that marks the entrance to this historic Buddhist temple.
Inner Shrine
Main Temple Building
The heart of the temple, housing sacred relics and offering a glimpse into centuries of Buddhist tradition.
Dutch-era Murals
Village Temple (adjacent)
Fascinating wall paintings from the Dutch colonial period, depicting scenes like sailing ships.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Attire is Key
Allow Ample Time for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Modestly :dress:
Cover shoulders and knees. White attire is recommended to blend with locals.
Allocate Enough Time :stopwatch:
Don't rush; explore the ancient architecture and spiritual ambiance.
Respectful Behavior :pray:
This is a sacred place; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Consider a Guide :man_detective:
Guides can help you understand traditions and history.
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Modestly :dress:
Cover shoulders and knees. White attire is recommended to blend with locals.
Allocate Enough Time :stopwatch:
Don't rush; explore the ancient architecture and spiritual ambiance.
Respectful Behavior :pray:
This is a sacred place; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Consider a Guide :man_detective:
Guides can help you understand traditions and history.
Capture the Details :camera:
The intricate carvings and murals are photo-worthy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Natha Devale is highly praised for its profound historical significance as the oldest building in Kandy and its deeply sacred atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the intricate architecture and the opportunity to witness traditional ceremonies. Some note that it can be quite time-consuming to fully explore, and respectful attire is essential.
"The story of the historic Nath Temple site - the oldest sacred building in Kandy
Today it is about the oldest sacred building in Kandy. That means this post is about the Natha Temple in front of Dalada Palace. This Natha temple site is a very historical place. The previous kings considered this land as a victory land. Therefore, our kings were crowned in this Natha temple area.
When someone becomes a king, they use other names. So the names of those kings are also placed in the Natha temple grounds. Accordingly, this Natha temple site was used to name every king who reigned over the mountain. One of the names kept in a clay pot in the inner palace is followed by the rituals in the morning and after the king receives it, the king's name is given. There is also a separate mandapam in this temple grounds for crowning the king. The foundation of that pavilion can still be seen today. A special feature of this mandapa is that the Vahalkada is facing north, the pagoda and bodhi are facing east, and the temple is facing south. Accordingly, the previous kings ritually put on their crowns, leave the northern Vahalkadin and pick up the sword from the Vishnu temple. Because Lord Natha is a non-warrior deity, the place of the sword in the Vishnu temple is special.
Sengkandapura or Kandy was built along with the Natha Temple. It was during the reign of King Vikramabahu III who ruled Gampola in the fourteenth century. Lord Natha is considered to be the future Buddha, Maitri Bosatha. The Natha temple building built for Lord Natha is centuries old. Accordingly, this temple is the first and oldest building in the city of Kandy. This temple is completely made of stone as a gedi house in the South Indian Pallava tradition. According to this, the main temple built for Lord Nath is Sri Nath Temple in Kandy.
It is also mentioned that the name Senkada Pura of Mahnuwara was due to a monk named Senkada who lived in this temple area. The land belonging to this Natha temple, Senkanda Bamuna has been identified as a victory land. Bamuna saw a strange incident of a jackal chasing a rabbit and recognized this place as a place of victory. Because Senkanda Bamuna recognized that land of victory, that city and the whole kingdom were called Senkandagalapura. After this incident, King Wickramabahu III of Gampola had the Natha temple built there. Also, until the main temple was built, a small chamber was built in that place and the Natha Deva's daughter was buried there.
The book "Avalokitesvara Natha" mentions about Liu Holtme that the Natha Deva statue receiving the offerings of Natha Devala Gedi is older than the Natha Deva of Gedi.
Next to the Natha temple, the village temple is the small temple that can be seen even today. There are some other paintings on the wall paintings of this village temple. They were painted by the Dutch. You can still see those murals today. They painted these paintings during their stay at this place until they received a summons from the Dutch king who was coming to meet our kings. Most of those paintings are sailing ships. Later, it is said that the king brought his palace, city, etc. to this place with the construction of the Natha temple. The King has built the city of Kandy in the form of twelve cycles. You can see that when you look at the old streets. But the later English have changed it.
The main wahalkada entering the temple grounds is one of the oldest wahalkadas in Kandy city. Two watchtowers, a dragon pantheon on the top, and a tiled roof can be seen in this Vahalkade. Not only that, the pagoda where a relic of Patra, which Dalada took with him, was placed, the historical Valbodhi, the cave where iron was smelted to make weapons, the well where the water was taken for offering to Dalada, the bell tower, the reclining Buddha statue made of granite, Pinthalia made of black stone, There are many antiquities found in Sri Patula, Gal Uluwassa, etc. excavations in this Natha temple area. The place where the rice was taken for the offerings of Lord Natha was called the God's place."
Isuru Abeygunawardana
"Sri Nath Devalaya is a truly enchanting destination, well worth the ticket price and the time required for a visit. The ambiance is exceptional, and the local community holds it in high regard as a place of great sanctity. To show your respect, it's advisable to dress appropriately, and if you wish to blend in with the locals, wearing white attire would be a fitting choice."
Daniyal Saleem
"Sri Natha Devalaya in Sri Lanka was a stunning cultural experience. The temple's intricate architecture and serene atmosphere left me in awe. The vibrant colors and exquisite sculptures showcased the rich history and religious significance of Sri Lanka. It was truly a memorable visit in February."
Marco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Natha Devale is located in the heart of Kandy, near the Temple of the Tooth. It's easily accessible by tuk-tuk or a short walk from the city center. If you're coming from further afield, buses and taxis are readily available to Kandy.
Yes, it's situated in a prominent location in Kandy's city center, making it quite straightforward to locate, especially if you're visiting the Temple of the Tooth.
Tuk-tuks are a popular and convenient way to navigate Kandy. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Walking is also an option if you're staying nearby.
Parking can be challenging in the busy city center of Kandy. It's often best to rely on public transport or tuk-tuks, or to park a bit further away and walk.
While ride-sharing apps are available in Sri Lanka, their availability and reliability can vary. Tuk-tuks are generally more ubiquitous and easier to hail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While some sources mention a ticket price, many visitors report that entry to Natha Devale itself is free, though donations are appreciated. It's always good to check upon arrival.
The temple is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the site. Daily ceremonies are a highlight.
Yes, the World Buddhist Museum, located near the Temple of the Tooth, typically has an entrance fee. It's worth visiting to complement your temple experience.
Yes, attending daily or annual rituals is highly recommended for a more immersive experience. The night ceremony is particularly atmospheric.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always respectful to ask permission before taking close-up shots of devotees or monks. Avoid flash photography inside the inner shrine.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Natha Devale is considered the oldest sacred building in Kandy, dating back to the 14th century. It was a site for royal coronations and is dedicated to Lord Natha, the future Buddha.
It's crucial to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Many visitors opt for white attire to show respect and blend in with the local devotees.
While official guided tours might not always be prominent, local guides are often available to share insights into the temple's history and rituals.
The temple is built in the South Indian Pallava tradition, primarily of stone. Look for the ancient gateway, the inner shrine, and the remnants of the coronation pavilion.
Children can visit, but they should be supervised and taught to be respectful of the sacred environment. The historical aspects might be more engaging for older children.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food or dining facilities directly within Natha Devale. You'll find plenty of options in the surrounding Kandy city center.
Kandy offers a wide range of Sri Lankan cuisine, from local eateries serving rice and curry to more tourist-oriented restaurants. Street food is also available.
Yes, Sri Lankan cuisine is generally rich in vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially curries. Look for 'vegetable rice and curry' options.
It's best to consume food and drinks outside the temple premises to maintain the sanctity of the site. Water is usually permissible.
Explore local restaurants and 'roti shops' in Kandy for authentic flavors. Ask locals for their recommendations for the best culinary experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
The intricately carved stone gateway, the ancient architecture of the inner shrine, and the Dutch-era murals in the adjacent village temple are prime photo opportunities.
Photography inside the inner shrine is often restricted or not permitted out of respect for the sacred relics. Always check for signage or ask a temple official.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the temple's details and atmosphere without harsh shadows.
Be mindful of devotees and avoid intrusive photography. Never photograph people without their explicit consent.
Drone usage is generally prohibited in and around religious sites and historical monuments in Sri Lanka due to privacy and security concerns.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Ensure children are dressed modestly, bring water, and consider visiting during less crowded times. The historical context of royal coronations and the legends associated with the temple can be made engaging for older children. Keep the visit concise to maintain their interest.
🏛️ History Buffs
Delve into the legends surrounding the temple's name and its connection to royal lineage. The presence of antiquities like the iron smelting site and the ancient well provides tangible links to the past, making it a deeply rewarding experience for anyone fascinated by Sri Lankan history.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers
Embrace the local custom of wearing white attire to enhance your connection to the sacred space. The temple's ancient origins and its dedication to Lord Natha, the future Buddha, provide a contemplative backdrop for those seeking spiritual enrichment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient History of Natha Devale
The name 'Senkada Pura' for Kandy is also linked to this temple area, stemming from a legend involving a monk named Senkada and a jackal and rabbit sighting, which was interpreted as an omen of victory. This historical depth makes Natha Devale a crucial landmark for understanding Kandy's past.
Beyond its primary dedication to Lord Natha, considered the future Buddha, the temple grounds contain numerous antiquities. These include remnants of a coronation pavilion, a pagoda, a well used for offerings, and even evidence of iron smelting for weapons, showcasing its multifaceted historical role.
Experiencing the Sacred Atmosphere
The temple hosts daily ceremonies and annual rituals, which are highly recommended for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Buddhist traditions. The night ceremony, in particular, is noted for its atmospheric and spiritual ambiance, offering a unique glimpse into the devotional practices.
Beyond the main temple, the adjacent village temple features Dutch-era murals, adding another layer of historical and artistic interest. These paintings, though faded, offer a glimpse into colonial interactions and artistic influences on the island.
Architectural Marvels and Antiquities
The temple grounds are a treasure trove of antiquities. Visitors can observe the foundation of a coronation pavilion, a pagoda that once held relics, and a well historically used for temple offerings. Evidence of ancient iron smelting for weapon production also points to the temple's broader historical significance beyond its religious function.
These elements, combined with the intricate carvings and the serene ambiance, make Natha Devale a compelling destination for those interested in history, architecture, and cultural heritage.
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