Discover Tranquility at Athugala Viharaya: A Serene Buddhist Temple
Explore the serene beauty and rich culture of Athugala Viharaya, a magnificent Buddhist temple in the heart of Kurunegala, Sri Lanka.
A brief summary to Athugala Viharaya
- Athugala SLT, Kurunegala, LK
- +94773214493
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Athugala Viharaya is a remarkable Buddhist temple located in Kurunegala, Sri Lanka, known for its serene ambiance and stunning architecture. This temple stands as a beacon of peace and spirituality, attracting visitors from around the globe. The temple's intricate designs and vibrant murals tell the story of Buddhist teachings and local culture, making it a rich educational experience. Tourists can wander through the tranquil grounds, absorbing the beauty of the surrounding nature and the calming presence of the temple itself. One of the highlights of Athugala Viharaya is its breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and landscapes, offering visitors a perfect spot for reflection and meditation. The temple is adorned with statues of Buddha, each crafted with devotion and artistic finesse. Don't miss the opportunity to participate in a traditional prayer session, where you can engage with local monks and learn about their daily practices. The temple is open every day from 7 AM to 7 PM, allowing ample time for exploration and spiritual reflection. As you stroll through the temple grounds, take note of the lush gardens that complement the serene atmosphere. The combination of nature and spirituality creates a harmonious environment that encourages introspection. Athugala Viharaya also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, providing an immersive experience of Sri Lankan traditions. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace or a deeper understanding of Buddhist culture, Athugala Viharaya promises an unforgettable experience that will enrich your travel journey.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the temple.
- Take your time to explore the intricate details of the temple's architecture and artwork.
- Engage with local monks to learn more about Buddhist practices and teachings.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Kandy City Center, head south on Peradeniya Road towards the Kandy Lake. Walk past the Kandy Post Office and continue straight until you reach the Kandy Railway Station. From there, you can take a bus or tuk-tuk to Kurunegala. Once you arrive in Kurunegala, you can ask locals for directions to Athugala Viharaya, which is approximately a 10-minute walk from the bus station.
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Public Transport (Bus)
Head to the Kandy Bus Stand and take a bus heading towards Kurunegala. The bus ride typically takes about 1 hour. Once you arrive at the Kurunegala Bus Station, you can either walk or take a tuk-tuk to Athugala Viharaya. It's about a 10-minute walk from the bus station to the temple.
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Tuk-tuk
If you prefer a quicker option after reaching Kurunegala, you can hire a tuk-tuk from the Kurunegala Bus Station directly to Athugala Viharaya. Just tell the driver the destination, and it should take approximately 10 minutes to arrive.
Attractions Nearby to Athugala Viharaya
- Athugala Buddha Statue - ඇතුගල බුද්ධ ප්රතිමාව
- Athugala Rock
- Ibbagala Rajamaha Viharaya
- Rajapihilla Central Park- Kurunegala
- Kurunegala Clock Tower
- Dalada maligawa, Kurunegala kingdom
- Kurunegala Pedestrian Subway | කුරුණෑගල පදික මාරු උමඟ
- Paththirippuwa
- Kurunegala Wewa
- Pride Lion
- Kurunegala lake jogging track
- Aandagala
- Children's Park - Lakeround
- Vilbawa Rajamaha Viharaya
- Kohilapokuna Temple - කොහිලපොකුණ විහාරය
Landmarks nearby to Athugala Viharaya
- Wathhimi Gale Bandara Dewalaya
- Kurunegala Courts Complex
- Kadurugas junction
- Rathkarauwa Archaeological site
- Bathalagoda lake
- රජ පිහිල්ල (Raja Pihilla)
- Bambaragala Rajamaha Viharaya
- Namal Anga Raja Maha Viharaya
- 47014
- Siri Gautama Sambuddharaja Maligawa | සිරි ගෞතම සම්බුද්ධරාජ මාළිගාව
- Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery - Polgahawela
- Elephant Orphanage - Entrance (Gate-B)
- New Elephant Shed (NES)
- Elephant Bathing Site
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage