Nalanda Gedige is situated near Matale. It is believed to be at least 1000 years of age. Nalanda Gedige is considered as the center of the sri lanka. It has a very unique mix of Buddhist and Hindu cultures that even amazed and confused its researchers. The structure was rediscovered back in 1893.
History of the destination
Nalanda Gedige is believed to have been built between the 8th and 10th centuries AD. It is said to be a bold attempt of a fusion of Sinhala and Tamil cultures while others say that it started as a Hindu Temple but was later used by Buddhists. Somehow with time, it was neglected to leave it to be cuddled in the arms of a dark forest with a mystery to be foretold.
Later in the years while the British were in Sri Lanka an Archeological Commissioner named H.C.P Bell found Nalanda Gedige in the depths of the forest. He then researched it further and was interested in it for its unique structure.
Architecture of Nalanda Gedige
Nalanda Gedige was designed in a framework of a Hindu Temple. There is an appearance of the god of wealth named Kubera seated on a lotus plinth which is a feature of Sri Lanka. There are also Buddhist carvings which are similar to the ones in India.
How to reach the destination
From Colombo
Take the McCallum road then go on the Colombo-Katunayake expressway and exit from the Kelani interchange. Turn right onto Airport Road and turn left onto Ekala – Kotadeniyawa Road.
Turn right onto Kurunegala Road and turn right onto Kathiresan Kovil Road. Turn right Junction onto Kandy Road and turn left at Nalanda Junction onto Gedige Road to reach your destination.
From Matale
You have to head south on Kandy Road. Turn right at Pawana Wedding Center onto Kandy Road. Turn left at Sonali Textile. Turn right at Lakshmishan Enterprise onto Kandy Road. Turn left at Nalanda Junction onto Gedige Road to reach your destination.
