Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya (Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue)

A Giant Buddha Watches Over Kandy

Towering above the bustling city of Kandy, the colossal white Buddha statue at Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya is impossible to miss. Seated in the serene Dhyana Mudra pose—the meditation posture associated with Buddha's first Enlightenment—this 25+ metre statue has become one of Sri Lanka's most recognisable landmarks. You'll spot it gleaming in the sunlight from nearly everywhere in Kandy, a constant reminder of the spiritual heart beating at the city's edge.

What to See & Do

The main draw here is undoubtedly the giant Buddha statue itself, which commands attention the moment you arrive. But don't rush past it—take time to sit in the temple grounds and absorb the peaceful atmosphere. The real reward comes when you climb the stairs inside the main structure. As you ascend, the views grow increasingly spectacular: Kandy city spreads out beneath you, the glittering waters of Kandy Lake come into view, and beyond them rise the lush emerald mountains that embrace the city. On clear days, these panoramic vistas are truly stunning; at night, when thousands of city lights twinkle like stars reflected in the sky, the experience becomes almost magical.

Inside the temple, you'll find a serene altar where visitors leave offerings of flowers or light oil lamps as acts of devotion. The spiritual energy of the place is palpable, and even if you're not particularly religious, the tranquillity is deeply restorative.

History & Significance

The story of this temple is one of determination and faith. Construction began in 1972 under the guidance of Ven. Ampitiye Dammarama Thero, a monk from the Amarapura Nikaya who received a generous land donation from the Minister of Lands. Dammarama spent years fundraising and advocating for the temple's construction, facing opposition from senior monks who feared it would overshadow other sacred sites in Kandy. His perseverance paid off: the Buddha statue was completed in 1992, and the site was officially opened to the public on 1 January 1993 by President Ranasinghe Premadasa.

The hill itself, known as Bahirawakanda, carries its own folklore. The name translates to "mountain of Bahirawa," linked to local legends of a protective deity. In centuries past, villagers believed the hill was home to an evil spirit, and over time these superstitions have faded, replaced by reverence for the spiritual sanctuary that now stands here.

Practical Visitor Information

Entry Fee: 300 LKR for foreign visitors (as of recent reports).

What to Bring: Respect the temple's customs—remove your shoes and hat before entering. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for climbing the stairs, and a hat or sunscreen will protect you from the Sri Lankan sun.

Best Time to Visit: Clear days offer the best views, so check the weather forecast before heading up. Early morning or late afternoon visits tend to be less crowded, and the light is particularly beautiful during these times. Evening visits reward you with the spectacular sight of Kandy's lights twinkling below.

Accessibility: The site involves climbing—both the initial ascent up Bahirawakanda hill and then stairs within the temple structure itself. If you prefer not to walk, you can reach the temple by tuk-tuk from Kandy city centre.

Getting There

Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya is located approximately 2 km from Kandy city centre. The easiest option is to hire a tuk-tuk, which will take you directly to the temple entrance—a short journey of just a few minutes depending on traffic. If you're staying in central Kandy and enjoy a walk, it's feasible to make your own way there, though you'll want to ask locals for directions to ensure you're heading the right way. Once you arrive, you'll either climb the stairs leading up to the temple or take the tuk-tuk option all the way to the top.

Tips for Visitors

• Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic views of Kandy, the lake, and surrounding mountains.
• Allow at least an hour for your visit—longer if you want to climb to the highest points and linger over the views.
• Bring water, especially if you're visiting during the heat of the day.
• If you're planning to visit in the evening for the city lights, bring a torch or use your phone's light to navigate the stairs safely.
• Be respectful of worshippers and other visitors; this is an active place of spiritual practice.
• Photography is permitted, so bring your camera to capture the statue and the stunning views.

Nearby Attractions

Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya sits conveniently close to other major Kandy attractions. The famous Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism's most sacred sites, is just 2 km away. Kandy Lake, with its picturesque walking paths, is nearby and makes for a peaceful stroll. The Royal Palace of Kandy is also within easy reach, allowing you to combine spiritual and historical exploration in a single day trip.