Lankatilaka Image House

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Overview

This is the largest idol house built in the Alahana Pirivena complex by King Parakramabahu the Great (1153 - 1186 AD). It is said to have been named "Lankathilaka" because it resembled the "Ornament of Lanka". It was built entirely of bricks and lime mortar according to the "Gedige" tradition. It is believed that it was about 100 feet high with 5 floors in the past, and even the walls that remain today are about 55 feet high. When you see the giant walls and the narrow entrance here, you can imagine how majestic it must have been in the past.

Key Features

  • The Giant Standing Buddha: Inside the building there was a huge standing Buddha statue made of bricks, about 41 feet high. Unfortunately, its head and arms have been broken off, leaving only the torso.
  • Architecture: The walls here are tapered to support the weight. Two very tall brick pylons can be seen on either side of the entrance.
  • Frescoes: Fragments of paintings (floral patterns and figures) from the Polonnaruwa period can still be seen on the interior and exterior walls of the building.

What can we do?

  • Architecture Walk: Walk around the building and observe the Vimanas and Stucco Figures on its outer walls.
  • Observe the Statue: Walk to the base of the massive standing statue and experience its grandeur (there may be times when you are not allowed to get very close to the statue).
  • Photography: The view of the Buddha statue from the tall entrance is a very popular angle to photograph.

Best time to go:

  • Time: Morning or evening.
  • Tip: The temple has no roof, so the sun shines directly on it during the day. This red brick building looks beautiful at sunset in the evening.

How long to spend for a visit?

  • For a General Visit:
  • Duration: About 20 - 30 minutes.
  • During this time, you can walk around the building, worship the main standing idol and take photographs.
  • For in-depth observation & photography:
  • Duration: About 45 minutes.
  • This time can be spent if you are interested in looking for architectural features, fine stucco figures on the outer walls and fragments of mural paintings.
  • Travel Tip: Lankatilaka Viharaya is located within a large complex called "Alahana Pirivena". The following places are also located nearby:
  • Kiri Vehera - about 100 meters away.
  • Baddhasima Prasada - very close.
  • Therefore, if you plan to visit Lankatilaka, Kiri Vehera, and all the surrounding ruins at once, it is best to set aside 1 to 1.5 hours for it.

Clothing:

  • As this is a sacred place, please dress appropriately and remove your shoes and headgear before entering.