Discover Serenity at the Old Island Temple
Experience the tranquility and cultural richness of the Old Island Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary in Matara, Sri Lanka.
Nestled in the heart of Matara, the Old Island Temple is a tranquil sanctuary that offers visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage. This Buddhist temple, renowned for its serene atmosphere and stunning architecture, is a perfect escape for those seeking peace and reflection during their travels. With its beautiful surroundings and spiritual ambiance, it’s an essential stop for anyone exploring the region.
A brief summary to Old Island Temple | පැරණි ලංකා විහාරය
- WGPJ+8WR, Matara, LK
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to experience the temple in its most peaceful state.
- Dress modestly as a sign of respect when entering the temple premises.
- Take your time to explore the surroundings; the garden areas are perfect for reflection.
- Engage with local monks if possible, as they can provide insights into Buddhist teachings and practices.
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.
Discover more about Old Island Temple | පැරණි ලංකා විහාරය
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