Exploring the Majestic Beauty of Nelligala Temple in Kandy
Are you an adventure traveler seeking a unique blend of spiritual serenity and natural beauty? Let’s explore the majestic Nelligala Temple, a hidden gem located in the small village of Muruthalawa in Kandy district.
This blog post will guide you through the highlights of this Buddhist temple, from its serene atmosphere to breathtaking panoramic views, ensuring your visit is nothing short of magical.
Ready for an unforgettable journey into one of Sri Lanka’s most stunning cultural heritage sites?.
Key Takeaways
- Nelligala Temple is a hidden gem located in Muruthalawa village, offering a unique blend of spiritual serenity and natural beauty.
- The temple can be accessed easily from both Colombo and Kandy, making it convenient for visitors to reach.
- Highlights of the temple include the grand entrance, serene temple grounds, main shrine with beautiful Buddhist artwork, sacred Bodhi tree, statue of God Sumana Saman, white stupa symbolizing purity, and golden stupa representing spirituality.
- The best time to visit is in the morning or evening to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views. Tips for visiting include wearing comfortable shoes, dressing modestly, and taking time to explore and appreciate the surroundings.
Location and Access to Nelligala Temple
Nelligala Temple is located in the Kandy district of Sri Lanka, specifically in the Muruthalawa village, nestled on a majestic mountain with breathtaking surroundings.
Access from Colombo side
You can reach Nelligala Temple from Colombo with ease. Take the Kandy-Peradeniya road for a smooth ride. This road brings you to Muruthalawa village. Here, find signs that lead to the temple.
The trip takes about four hours by car or bus. So plan well for a nice day trip!
Access from Kandy side
To reach Nelligala Temple from the Kandy side, you can take a scenic drive along the Kandy-Peradeniya road. The temple is located about 11 kilometers from Kandy town and 7 kilometers from Peradeniya town.
Once you arrive at the temple, there is a stone stairway that leads to its celestial setting. This path offers a safe route for senior citizens and those with mobility impairments.
From here, you can explore the serene surroundings of the temple and enjoy the panoramic views of the breathtaking landscape. Whether you’re visiting in the morning or evening, Nelligala Temple provides an escape into nature’s tranquility while being just a short distance away from bustling Kandy city.
Highlights of Nelligala Temple
The entrance to the temple welcomes visitors with its grandeur and intricate design. The temple ground and surroundings offer a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for meditation or simply enjoying the scenic beauty.
Inside the main shrine, you will find stunning statues and paintings depicting Buddhist tales and teachings. The sacred Bodhi tree adds an aura of spirituality to the temple grounds.
Don’t miss the impressive statue of God Sumana Saman, which stands tall as a symbol of devotion. The white stupa glistens in sunlight, while the golden stupa shines brightly against the sky.
Entrance to the temple
As you make your way to the Nelligala Temple, get ready to be captivated by its grand entrance. A beautiful stone stairway leads you up to this celestial setting on top of a mountain.
And don’t worry if you have difficulty climbing stairs, there is a separate safe path for senior citizens and those with mobility impairments. Once you reach the temple grounds, you will instantly feel a sense of serenity and peace that surrounds this sacred place.
Take your time to explore and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings before continuing your journey through this stunning Buddhist temple.
Temple ground and surroundings
The temple grounds of Nelligala Temple are truly captivating. As you explore the area, you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenic beauty and panoramic views. The temple is situated on top of a mountain, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your visit.
The tranquil atmosphere adds to the charm, making it an ideal place for meditation and reflection. Take your time to wander through the temple grounds and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Whether you’re a nature lover or a spiritual seeker, the temple ground and its surroundings will leave you in awe.
Main shrine
The main shrine of Nelligala Temple is a significant attraction for visitors. It holds religious importance and is considered a sacred place for Buddhists. The shrine showcases beautiful Buddhist artwork and intricate carvings that depict various stories from Buddhist mythology.
Inside the shrine, you will find statues of Buddha and other revered figures, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Many people come here to offer prayers, meditate, and seek blessings.
The main shrine is well-maintained, providing a peaceful environment for reflection and worship. It adds to the overall cultural heritage of Sri Lanka and offers an opportunity to learn about Buddhism’s rich history and practices while experiencing its architectural marvels firsthand.
Sacred Bodhi tree
At Nelligala Temple, you’ll find a sacred Bodhi tree that holds great significance for Buddhists. The Bodhi tree is considered sacred because it is believed to be a direct descendant of the original Bodhi tree in India where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
Many visitors come here to pay their respects and seek blessings from this revered tree. Its branches provide shade and tranquility, creating a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection.
As you sit beneath its canopy, you can feel a deep sense of connection with nature and spirituality.
Statue of God Sumana Saman
At the Nelligala Temple in Kandy, one of the highlights you shouldn’t miss is the magnificent statue of God Sumana Saman. This statue holds great significance in Buddhism and is a symbol of protection and blessings.
It stands tall and majestic, exuding a sense of peace and tranquility. Many visitors come here to offer prayers and seek spiritual solace.
The statue depicts God Sumana Saman, who is believed to be a guardian deity protecting Sri Lanka. People believe that by paying homage to this statue, they will receive his divine blessings, good fortune, and protection from any harm or obstacles in their lives.
White stupa
At Nelligala Temple, one of the highlights is the White Stupa. This magnificent structure stands tall and gleaming against the backdrop of the temple grounds. The white color symbolizes purity and peace in Buddhism, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors to admire.
The intricate carvings and details on the stupa showcase the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. As you explore the temple, take a moment to appreciate this architectural marvel and its significance in Buddhism.
It’s truly a sight to behold at Nelligala Temple in Kandy!
Golden stupa
The Golden stupa is one of the highlights of Nelligala Temple in Kandy. It is a magnificent structure that stands out with its golden color, shimmering in the sunlight. The stupa holds great significance in Buddhist culture and serves as a symbol of spirituality and enlightenment.
As you approach the Golden stupa, you will be amazed by its intricate design and majestic presence. It is truly a sight to behold and provides a sense of serenity and peace. Don’t forget to take some time to admire this architectural marvel during your visit to Nelligala Temple.
Best Time to Visit Nelligala Temple
The best time to visit Nelligala Temple is either in the morning or evening. During these times, the temple is less crowded and you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and tranquility it offers.
The temple is located on top of a mountain, so it’s a great idea to visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you want to start your day with spiritual reflection or end it with a peaceful experience, visiting Nelligala Temple in the morning or evening will allow you to fully appreciate its beauty and find inner peace.
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Tips for Visiting Nelligala Temple
To make the most of your visit to Nelligala Temple, here are some tips:
- Plan your visit in the morning or evening to enjoy the scenic beauty and avoid the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there are stairs leading up to the temple.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun.
- Respect the sacredness of the temple by dressing modestly and removing your shoes before entering.
- Take your time to explore the temple grounds and admire the panoramic views.
- If you’re interested in learning more about Buddhism, consider joining a guided tour or speaking with one of the monks at the temple.
- Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking surroundings and architectural marvels of Nelligala Temple.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Nelligala Temple in Kandy is a truly magnificent place to visit. With its stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere, it offers a unique experience for both spiritual seekers and nature lovers.
Whether you’re exploring the temple grounds or taking in the panoramic views from the summit, this temple will leave you in awe of its majestic beauty. Don’t miss out on this incredible destination when visiting Kandy!
FAQs
1. Is the Nelligala Temple in Kandy worth visiting?
Yes, the Nelligala Temple in Kandy is worth visiting as it offers a majestic beauty and is known for its stunning views of the surrounding area.
2. What are some attractions at the Nelligala Temple?
The Nelligala Temple features a large Buddha statue, beautiful gardens, colorful murals depicting Buddhist stories, and panoramic views of the scenic landscape.
3. Are there any admission fees to enter the Nelligala Temple?
No, there are no admission fees to enter the Nelligala Temple. Visitors can explore and enjoy its beauty free of charge.
4. Can I take photographs inside the temple premises?
While photography is allowed in most areas of the temple premises, it is important to respect any designated no-photography zones or restrictions that may be posted within certain areas.
Melanie Cho is a passionate traveler, storyteller, and cultural enthusiast with a heart that bridges the landscapes of Korea and Sri Lanka. As a 28-year-old Korean woman who spent her formative years splitting time between these two captivating worlds, Melanie’s unique upbringing ignited her love for exploration and connection. Her intimate knowledge of both cultures enables her to share authentic insights, captivating stories, and practical tips that inspire fellow adventurers to embark on unforgettable journeys.
