Lankathilaka Viharaya

Murals, paintings, sculpture and architecture – the Lankathilaka Viharaya is definitely a sight to behold. And if you’re wondering whether you’ll be able to take in all of temple architecture within a day’s itinerary, then let the Lankathilaka take up a few good hours and schedule the remaining destinations for later. There’s a lot that differentiates this temple and gives it an edge over the other tourists attractions in Kandy.
To start with, there is a sure variation from the general architectural styles that are taken up at the Buddhist temples. You may notice that the suggestive gives way to the obvious through the murals and sculptures. The giant statue, or rather the remains of it, is a brilliant example to the point.
Built by Parakramabahu the Great, who took to throne from 1153 AD and remained in power till 1186 AD, the Lankathilaka Viharaya, is characterized by the best features of Sri Lankan architectural style, better known as the Sinhalese temple architecture. The temple also underwent subsequent renovation during the reign of Dabadeniya in the 13th century.
As you browse through the structures and the architectural patterns you may want to keep this in mind that the entire temple is built on a single rock mass. In fact, if you observe a bit closer you may also come across the steps cut from rock, used while creating the statue of the Buddha.
The most striking feature about the Lankathilaka Viharaya is its resemblance to an image house, appearing to have five floors from the front. What the travelers get to see at present are only the remains of the original structure, nonetheless enchanting.