Serenity at the Old Island Temple
Discover peace and spirituality at the Old Island Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary in the heart of Matara, Sri Lanka.
A brief summary to Old Island Temple | පැරණි ලංකා විහාරය
- WGPJ+8WR, Matara, LK
The Old Island Temple, known locally as පැරණි ලංකා විහාරය, is a hidden gem in Matara that enchants tourists with its serene ambiance and rich history. As you approach the temple, the intricate architecture and beautifully maintained grounds create a sense of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. The temple serves as a peaceful retreat, making it an ideal location for meditation and reflection. Visitors are often struck by the calmness that envelops the area, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Inside the temple, you'll find stunning murals and statues that depict the life of the Buddha, each telling a story steeped in cultural significance. The craftsmanship on display is a testament to the dedication of those who have preserved this sacred site over the years. As you explore the grounds, take the time to engage with local monks, who may share insights about the temple's history and the Buddhist teachings that guide their lives. While visiting, be sure to observe the local customs, such as dressing modestly and maintaining a respectful demeanor. The temple is not just a tourist attraction; it is a living place of worship and devotion. Spending time here will not only enrich your travel experience but also provide a deeper understanding of the spirituality that permeates Sri Lankan culture. The Old Island Temple is a must-visit for anyone seeking peace, beauty, and a touch of the divine in their journey through Matara.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience.
- Dress modestly to show respect for the sacred site.
- Engage with local monks to learn more about the temple's significance.
- Take time to meditate in the tranquil gardens surrounding the temple.
- Don't forget your camera; the temple's architecture is stunning!
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start from Matara town. Head southeast on Main Street (Galle Road) towards Matara Bridge. Continue on Galle Road for about 2 kilometers. Look for a sign indicating 'Old Island Temple' or 'පැරණි ලංකා විහාරය.' You will need to turn left onto a small road just before reaching the coastal area. Follow this road for around 500 meters until you see the temple on your left. There is limited parking available near the temple.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
From Matara Bus Station, take a bus heading towards Weligama or Galle. Make sure to inform the conductor or driver that you want to stop at 'Old Island Temple' or 'පැරණි ලංකා විහාරය.' The bus ride should take about 15-20 minutes. Once you get off, walk back approximately 200 meters in the direction you came from, and you will find the temple on your right. The bus fare is typically around 30-50 LKR.
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Tuk-Tuk
For a more direct route, you can hire a tuk-tuk from anywhere in Matara. Negotiate the fare beforehand; it should cost around 300-500 LKR depending on your starting point. The driver will take you directly to the Old Island Temple. Ensure to show them the location on a map or provide the address (WGPJ+8WR, Matara) for clarity.
Attractions Nearby to Old Island Temple | පැරණි ලංකා විහාරය
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Polhena Beach
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Chandika Cocadile & River Safari
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Nilawala Estuary
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Tsunami Memorial
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Turtle Bay Activity Center
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Old Dutch Market
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Madiha East Beach
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Hotel Nawathana
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Madiha Beach
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Habarale Temple
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ඇවිදින මන්තීරුව
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පරෙවි දූව විහාරස්ථානය - Parewi Duwa Temple
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Buddha's Statue
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Matara Fort
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Matara Beach | மாத்தறை கடற்கரை | මාතර වෙරළ
Landmarks nearby to Old Island Temple | පැරණි ලංකා විහාරය
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Old Island Temple | පැරණි ලංකා විහාරය
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Acquabey Surf Villa
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Amaloh Boutique Resort
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Culture Resort
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VUBU
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Sanaya Mansion
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White House Holiday Resort
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The Kottu Factory
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Crocodiles watching and River Safari with Isuru
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360 Madiha - Restaurants and Hotels
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The Dutchman's Street
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Kotuwe Kade (Pvt) Ltd
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Raze Tours Sri Lanka 🇱🇰
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Shima Guni Beach Club
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මාතර තානායම