Nalanda Gedige: The Heart of Sri Lanka's Spiritual Heritage
Explore Nalanda Gedige, a historical landmark in Matale, where Buddhist and Hindu traditions converge in stunning architectural beauty.
Nestled in the scenic hills of Matale, Nalanda Gedige is a stunning historical landmark that serves as a vital connection between Sri Lanka's Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Visitors can explore its intricate architecture, rich history, and serene surroundings, making it a must-visit destination for cultural enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Nalanda Gedige (Central point of Sri Lanka)
- MJ9W+V8X, Gedige Rd, Matale, LK
- Monday 7 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7 am-5 pm
- Friday 7 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the serene atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Dress modestly, as this is a sacred site for both Buddhists and Hindus.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain insights into the history and significance of the temple.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Sigiriya Rock Fortress entrance, head south on the Sigiriya Road towards the town center. Continue straight for about 1.5 kilometers until you reach the main intersection at Sigiriya Junction. At the junction, turn right onto Matale Road. Walk for another 2 kilometers, and you'll see signs directing you to Nalanda Gedige. Keep an eye out for local landmarks like the Sigiriya Museum on your right. After about 15 minutes of walking from the junction, you will arrive at Nalanda Gedige, located on Gedige Road.
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Tuk-tuk
You can hire a tuk-tuk from any location in Sigiriya. Simply ask the driver to take you to Nalanda Gedige, which is about 4 kilometers away. The ride should take around 10-15 minutes. Make sure to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, rent a bicycle from one of the local shops in Sigiriya. Start from the Sigiriya Rock entrance, cycling south on Sigiriya Road. After about 1.5 kilometers, you'll reach the Sigiriya Junction. Turn right onto Matale Road and continue for another 2 kilometers. The path is relatively flat and should take you about 20-30 minutes to reach Nalanda Gedige.
Discover more about Nalanda Gedige (Central point of Sri Lanka)
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