Discover the Timeless Beauty of Nalanda Gedige
Explore Nalanda Gedige, Sri Lanka's iconic historical landmark showcasing a blend of Buddhist and Hindu heritage amidst serene natural beauty.
A brief summary to Nalanda Gedige (Central point of Sri Lanka)
- MJ9W+V8X, Gedige Rd, Matale, LK
Nalanda Gedige stands as a captivating historical landmark in Sri Lanka, representing the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region. This ancient site, believed to date back to the 8th century, is a unique blend of Buddhist and Hindu architectural influences, showcasing the harmony between the two faiths that have shaped the island’s history. The prominent structure is adorned with intricate stone carvings and sculptures that narrate tales of devotion and artistry, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in Sri Lanka's spiritual legacy. As you wander through Nalanda Gedige, take a moment to appreciate the serene surroundings, which are enveloped by lush tropical foliage. The temple complex serves not only as a place of worship but also as a tranquil retreat for those seeking solace in nature. The peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal location for meditation or quiet reflection, allowing tourists to connect with the spiritual essence of the site. In addition to its architectural beauty, Nalanda Gedige is conveniently located at the central point of Sri Lanka, making it a great stop for travelers exploring the island. Whether you are an enthusiast of history, architecture, or spirituality, this landmark promises a memorable experience that captures the essence of Sri Lanka's diverse cultural landscape. Visitors should plan to spend time exploring the intricate details of the temple and enjoy the breathtaking views that surround this remarkable destination.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you may want to explore the surrounding area.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and serene landscapes.
- Respect local customs by dressing modestly while visiting the temple.
Getting There
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Car
From the main entrance of Minneriya National Park, head southwest on the A1 highway. Continue for approximately 12 kilometers until you reach the junction at Habarana. Take a left turn onto the A11 road towards Matale. Drive for about 25 kilometers on the A11 until you reach Matale. Once in Matale, follow the signs towards Gedige Road. Nalanda Gedige is located on Gedige Rd, approximately 5 kilometers from the main road. Expect the journey to take around 1 hour depending on traffic conditions.
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Public Transportation
From the entrance of Minneriya National Park, you can take a local bus heading towards Habarana. Once you reach Habarana, transfer to a bus that goes to Matale. The bus ride from Habarana to Matale takes about 30 minutes. Upon reaching Matale, you will need to take a tuk-tuk or a taxi to Gedige Road. The tuk-tuk ride will take approximately 15 minutes and should cost around 300 LKR. Ensure to check the bus schedules as they may vary.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you prefer a more direct approach without public transportation, you can hire a tuk-tuk from Minneriya National Park to Nalanda Gedige. Negotiate the price beforehand; it should cost around 2000-2500 LKR for a one-way trip. The journey will take approximately 40 minutes. Make sure to have cash on hand as tuk-tuk drivers may not accept card payments.
Attractions Nearby to Nalanda Gedige (Central point of Sri Lanka)
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Matale Herbal And Spice Garden No 8
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Arangala Mountain Peak
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Matale herbal & Spice Garden
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Opalgala Ella Waterfall
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Royal 100 Spice Garden
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Ranweli Spice Garden
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Yatawatta Biso Ella Falls | යටවත්ත බිසෝ ඇල්ල
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Paramount 200 spice garden
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New Paradise Spice Garden
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Menikdena Archeological Reserve and Arboretum | මැණික්දෙන පුරාවිද්යා රක්ෂිතය සහ වෘක්ෂෝද්යානය
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Hulangala Mini World's End Entrance
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Hulangala Mini World's End Viewpoint - Elkaduwa Plantations
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Optical illusion
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Puwakpitiya Oya
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Sera Ella Water Fall
Landmarks nearby to Nalanda Gedige (Central point of Sri Lanka)
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Matale
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Moragahakanda Dam Viewing Point
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Sri Lanka
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World Heritage Elahera Anicut Entrance
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ගුරුබැබිල පුරාණ ටැම්පිට විහාරය Gurubebila ancient tampita temple
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Namal Anga Raja Maha Viharaya
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JC's Village
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Ibbankatuwa Ancient Cemetry
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Jetwing Lake
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Rangiri Dambulla Resort
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Sundaras Resort & Spa
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Dambulla Rock
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Painting Conservation & Research Center and Painting Museum
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Wiltshire
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Minneriya - Giritale Nature Reserve