Discover the Spiritual Serenity of Mahiyangana Temple
Experience the rich spiritual heritage and serene beauty of Mahiyangana Temple, a must-visit religious destination in Sri Lanka.
A brief summary to Mahiyangana temple
- 8XCR+F24, Mahiyanganaya, Mahiyangana Puja Nagaraya, LK
Mahiyangana Temple stands as a significant spiritual landmark in Sri Lanka, deeply rooted in Buddhist history and tradition. This ancient temple is believed to be the site where Lord Buddha preached to the indigenous people of Sri Lanka during his third visit to the island. As you approach the temple, you are greeted by an atmosphere of serenity, with lush greenery surrounding the sacred grounds. The architecture of the temple showcases intricate designs and vibrant colors, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. Visitors to Mahiyangana Temple are invited to immerse themselves in the tranquil environment, where meditation and reflection can take place. The temple features a stupa that is believed to contain relics of the Buddha, making it a place of pilgrimage for devotees. The peaceful ambiance encourages visitors to engage in spiritual practices, whether through prayer, meditation, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings. Local monks are often present, offering insights into the temple's significance and the teachings of Buddhism. As you explore the temple grounds, take the time to appreciate the beautiful surroundings, including the nearby hills and the flowing waters of the river. The temple is not just a place of worship but also a cultural hub, where festivals and traditional ceremonies are held throughout the year. Make sure to check the local schedule for any events that might coincide with your visit, as witnessing a festival can provide an enriching experience. Mahiyangana Temple is more than just a destination; it is a journey into the heart of Sri Lanka's spiritual landscape.
Local tips
- Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the temple to honor the sacred space.
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photographs.
- Engage with local monks to learn more about the temple's history and Buddhist practices.
- Bring a small donation for temple maintenance; your contribution helps preserve the cultural heritage.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car from Kandy, take the A26 road towards Mahiyanganaya. The drive is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes (about 70 km). Once you reach the town of Mahiyanganaya, navigate to the coordinates (7.321273, 80.9901912) using your GPS. The temple is located at 8XCR+F24, Mahiyanganaya. There is ample parking available near the temple.
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Public Bus
You can take a direct bus from Kandy to Mahiyanganaya, which operates frequently throughout the day. The bus ride takes about 2 hours and costs approximately 150 LKR. Once you arrive at the Mahiyanganaya bus station, you can either walk to the temple (about 1.5 km) or take a tuk-tuk for around 100 LKR to reach the temple directly at 8XCR+F24.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you are already in Mahiyanganaya and looking for local transport, hiring a tuk-tuk is a convenient option. You can find tuk-tuks near the bus station or ask your hotel to arrange one for you. The fare should be around 100 LKR to take you to Mahiyanganaya temple.
Attractions Nearby to Mahiyangana temple
- Mahiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya
- Mahiyangana Puja Nagaraya, Mahiyanganaya
- Mahiyangana Sthupa
- Mahiyanganaya Temple Museum
- Mahiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya - Main Entrance (Wahalkada)
- Willuwa Wewa Buddha's Statue - Mahiyanganaya
- Mahiyangana Hiti Pilimaya
- Mahiyanganaya Bridge
- Sorabora Wewa
- Sorabora Lake
- Horabora Wewa
- Seetha Kotuwa
- Gurulupotha bathing place
- Mapakada Wewa
- Rathna Ella Tank
Landmarks nearby to Mahiyangana temple
- Ulpathagama wewa
- Udadumbara View Point - උඩදුම්බර නැරබුම් ස්තානය
- Knuckles (Fourth Peak)
- Five peaks of Knuckles
- Thunhisgala
- Saree Ella Waterfall
- Gomara Fortress 360
- Sri Lanka Eco Camping Knuckles Mountain Range
- සිතුවම් ලෙන (Sithuvam Lena)
- Duwili Ella and Duwili Ella cave
- Knuckles Doowili Ella Camping site
- Knuckles Forest Reserve
- Knuckles
- Mountain Range -Knuckles
- Thawalanthenna Anicut