Ancient Ranawana Temple

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Overview

Ranawana Purana Rajamaha Viharaya is situated in Pilimathalawa, approximately 12 km from Kandy. The temple is famous due to the presence of the tallest walking Buddha statue in the world, also known as the Sakman Buddha Statue, which reaches as high as 80 feet. The temple is magnificently constructed to adorn the natural rock landscape, thus making this temple one of the most serene temples in Sri Lanka. The temple possesses historical significance dating back to the Gampola period.

What can we do?

  • "Worship the Walking Buddha" — See the grand walking Buddha statue of 80 feet and then the line of Arhats (disciples).
  • Walk the Forest Trail: As one climbs to the top of this trail, there are beautiful statues and dioramas of different events from various stories from the life of Lord Buddha and also Jataka stories. It’s like a 3D storybook itself!
  • See the Replica of the Famous Gate at Sanchi - A very few places offer the view of the Replica of the Famous Gate at the site of the famous Sanchi Stupa Gate in India.
  • Enjoy Nature: The construction of the temple is done in harmony with nature by using giant rocks and trees.

Which season is best for travel?

  • Best Time: Early morning (7:00 AM - 9:30 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM).

  • Note: You have to climb a path through the forest/rock. Since you need to remove shoes, the rock floor can get very hot during the day. Wearing thick socks is highly recommended.

How long to spend for a visit?

  • Duration: You will need about 1 to 1.5 hours.

  • It takes time to climb the gentle slope, see the statues along the path, and worship at the main shrine.

How can we arrive?

  • Location: It is located in Pilimathalawa, just off the Colombo-Kandy main road.

  • From Kandy:

    • Bus: Take any bus towards Colombo/Kegalle (like Route 1) and get off at the "Ranawana Temple Junction" (near the Railway Museum at Pilimathalawa). From there, it's about 1km inland (you can take a tuk-tuk for Rs. 150-200).

    • Tuk-tuk: A direct tuk-tuk from Kandy town will take about 30 minutes.