Highlights
- A fine 14th century stone temple near Pilimathalawa
- Carved wooden doors stand at the entrance
- Sinhala and South Indian styles meet in its design
Overview
Gadaladeniya Raja Maha Viharaya is a Buddhist temple on a flat rock in Pilimathalawa, west of Kandy. It dates from the Gampola period and was built in 1344 under King Bhuvanekabahu IV, according to a rock inscription at the site. Its design shows clear South Indian influence, with a stone shrine built in a style seen more often in Hindu temples.
What you see
- The main image house: built of carved stone, with a seated Buddha image inside and decorative carvings at the entrance.
- Carved wooden doors: with traces of old paintings.
- A small stupa set in its own shrine, and a shrine to Hindu gods.
- The rock inscription recording the temple's foundation.
From the rock platform you get views over the surrounding paddy and villages.
How long it takes
About thirty to forty-five minutes.
When to go
Morning or late afternoon. The rock heats up at midday, and you walk barefoot.
Getting there
The temple is about 30 minutes from Kandy via Pilimathalawa. It is usually visited on the "three temples" loop with Embekke Devalaya and Lankatilaka.
Practical tips
- A small entry fee applies; check on arrival.
- Wear socks for the hot rock.
- Cover shoulders and knees.
Plan with our Kandy city tour, things to do in Kandy and Kandy hotels.
Prices are as of October 2026 and may change.
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