Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue

Bahirawakanda Vihara is the temple on the hill above Kandy, crowned by a large white statue of the Buddha seated in meditation. The statue is about 27 metres (88 feet) tall and can be seen from much of the city. Most visitors come for the statue and the wide view over Kandy and its lake.

What you see

At the top, a terrace around the statue looks over the city, the Temple of the Tooth and the green hills beyond. There is also a small temple area. The name Bahirawa Kanda is usually translated as "Bahirawa's hill", after a guardian deity of local folklore, sometimes rendered as "devil's hill".

Entry and hours

The temple is generally open from early morning until early evening. Foreign visitors pay an entrance fee of about LKR 300; confirm at the gate, as it changes.

How long it takes

About an hour, including time at the top.

When to go

Late afternoon brings softer light and cooler air, and good views as the town lights come on. Mornings are quieter.

Getting there

The hill is about 2 km from the city centre. A tuk-tuk can take you most of the way up; walking from town is steep and takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

Practical tips

• Cover shoulders and knees, and remove shoes and hats near the statue.
• Bring socks; the ground gets hot in the sun.
• Do not pose with your back to the Buddha for photos.

Combine it with a walk round Kandy Lake and the Temple of the Tooth, or our Kandy city tour. See things to do in Kandy and Kandy hotels.

Prices are as of October 2026 and may change.