Asgiri Maha Viharaya

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A Historical Gem in the Heart of Kandy

Asgiri Maha Viharaya

Nestled in the bustling city of Kandy, Asgiri Maha Viharaya is one of the most significant and revered Buddhist monasteries in Sri Lanka. Alongside the Malwathu Maha Viharaya, it plays an integral role in the religious and cultural life of the country. The temple is part of the Syamopali Maha Nikaya, one of the three main Buddhist sects in Sri Lanka, and serves as a center for Buddhist learning, rituals, and governance.

Visiting Asgiri Maha Viharaya provides travelers with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Sri Lanka’s rich spiritual traditions and ancient history. This article will explore how to reach the temple, what to experience at ground level, popular itineraries, and key geographical details.


Distance from Kandy and Colombo

Asgiri Maha Viharaya is conveniently located within Kandy city, making it easily accessible for visitors staying in or traveling through this culturally rich region. The temple is only about 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) from the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a key attraction in Kandy, and can be reached by foot, tuk-tuk, or car in about 5 to 10 minutes.

From Colombo, the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka, Asgiri Maha Viharaya is approximately 116 kilometers (72 miles) away. The journey by car or public transport takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic.

  • By Train: For those traveling from Colombo, the train is a scenic option. The Colombo to Kandy train ride is one of the most popular in the country, offering beautiful views of the countryside. Once you arrive at the Kandy Railway Station, the temple is a short tuk-tuk ride away.
  • By Bus: Direct buses from Colombo to Kandy operate frequently, departing from the Colombo Fort Bus Station. The trip takes around 3 hours, with Kandy being the final stop. From there, visitors can take a tuk-tuk or enjoy a leisurely walk to the temple.

A Spiritual and Historical Landmark

Asgiri Maha Viharaya has long been a hub of Buddhist activity in Kandy. The monastery’s history dates back to the 14th century, when it was founded by King Parakramabahu IV. It has since played a central role in the religious and cultural affairs of the island, particularly during the Kingdom of Kandy's reign. As one of the two monasteries responsible for the sacred Tooth Relic during the Esala Perahera, Asgiri Maha Viharaya remains a key institution in the preservation and celebration of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage.


Ground-Level Experiences at Asgiri Maha Viharaya

When visiting Asgiri Maha Viharaya, you’ll be struck by the tranquility and spiritual aura that surrounds the temple complex. Unlike some of the more tourist-heavy sites in Kandy, Asgiri offers a more intimate and peaceful experience, allowing visitors to truly connect with the sacred atmosphere of the location.

1. The Main Shrine Hall

The heart of the temple complex is the main shrine hall, which houses an imposing statue of Buddha seated in the traditional meditation posture. The hall is beautifully adorned with intricate Buddhist artwork, statues, and sacred relics, providing a serene space for meditation and reflection. Visitors are welcome to explore the hall, light oil lamps, and make offerings of flowers and incense, a common practice in Buddhist culture.

2. Meditation and Spiritual Practices

Asgiri Maha Viharaya is also known as a center for meditation and spiritual practice. Visitors interested in learning more about Buddhist meditation techniques can often participate in guided sessions or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the temple grounds for personal reflection. The surrounding gardens and quiet spaces provide the perfect environment to practice mindfulness and relaxation.

3. Monastic Life and Education

The temple is home to a community of Buddhist monks, many of whom are engaged in studies and rituals. The Asgiriya Chapter is one of the primary centers for the training and ordination of young monks in the Kandy region. While visiting, you may have the opportunity to witness the daily life of the monks, from their chanting rituals to their involvement in the community.

4. Sacred Tooth Relic Preparations

Asgiri Maha Viharaya plays a critical role in the annual Esala Perahera, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous cultural and religious festivals. Each year, the monks of Asgiri and Malwathu Maha Viharaya take turns safeguarding the Tooth Relic of Buddha, which is paraded through the streets of Kandy during the Perahera. Although the Perahera takes place in August, preparations and rituals associated with the relic are held throughout the year, offering visitors a glimpse into the deep spiritual significance of this event.

5. Architectural Beauty

The architecture of Asgiri Maha Viharaya is a mix of traditional Kandyan and Sri Lankan design elements. The whitewashed walls, tiled roofs, and intricately carved wooden doors reflect the temple’s long history and royal patronage. Walking through the temple grounds, visitors will appreciate the fine craftsmanship and attention to detail that has gone into preserving this important historical site.


Popular Itineraries and Places to Explore Nearby

A visit to Asgiri Maha Viharaya can easily be combined with other key attractions in and around Kandy. Here are a few popular itineraries to consider:

1. Kandy City Heritage Tour

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the most sacred Buddhist site in Sri Lanka.
  • 11:00 AM: Walk or take a short tuk-tuk ride to Asgiri Maha Viharaya, where you can explore the main shrine hall and learn about the temple’s role in the Esala Perahera.
  • 12:30 PM: Have lunch at a nearby restaurant or café in Kandy city.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Kandy Lake for a leisurely stroll or boat ride, taking in the scenic views of the surrounding hills.
  • 4:00 PM: End your day with a visit to the Royal Palace or the Kandy National Museum to learn more about the city’s royal past.

2. Spiritual and Scenic Exploration

  • 8:00 AM: Begin with a meditation session or a peaceful walk around the grounds of Asgiri Maha Viharaya.
  • 10:00 AM: Head to the nearby Malwathu Maha Viharaya, the counterpart to Asgiri, and explore its shrine rooms and museum.
  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a restaurant overlooking the Kandy Hills.
  • 2:00 PM: Take a tuk-tuk to the Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue, where you can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the city.
  • 5:00 PM: Finish your day with a visit to the Kandy Viewpoint for a breathtaking sunset over the city and surrounding mountains.

Sea Level and Geographic Details

Asgiri Maha Viharaya is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, in the historic city of Kandy, which sits at an altitude of about 500 meters (1,640 feet) above sea level. The temple itself is slightly elevated, providing visitors with beautiful views of the surrounding hills and greenery. The region’s tropical climate means it experiences cooler temperatures compared to coastal areas, making it a pleasant destination year-round.

Kandy is surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and tea plantations, contributing to its reputation as one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic and culturally rich cities. The Mahaweli River, the longest river in Sri Lanka, flows through the region, adding to the area’s natural beauty.


Tips for Visitors

  • Best Time to Visit: Kandy can be visited year-round, but the best time to explore Asgiri Maha Viharaya is during the dry season from December to April, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Visitors who wish to experience the Esala Perahera should plan their trip around July and August.
  • Respectful Attire: As a religious site, visitors are required to dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered. It’s also customary to remove shoes before entering the temple’s sacred areas.
  • Photography: While photography is generally allowed, it’s important to be respectful and avoid taking pictures inside the shrine halls unless permitted.
  • Entry Fees: There is no specific entry fee for Asgiri Maha Viharaya, but donations are encouraged to help with the upkeep of the temple.

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