Nelligala International Buddhist Center
Nelligala is a mountain located in Muruthalawa, Kandy. Nelligala International Buddhist Center, well known as Nelligala Temple was built in 2015 on the top of the Nelligala mountain hill.
The freedom you feel when you go to the top of a mountain is indescribable. We are constantly searching for healing in our minds as we think about how to get rid of a busy lifestyle. It is worth mentioning the Nelligala Vihara which is built on a hilltop that is easily accessible in such a background. The buildings of the Nelligala temple are very beautiful with a high construction style of architectural value. The Mahayana Buddha statue, a beautiful feature of the temple, is a perfect display of the golden Buddha statue, the Bo tree in the golden bowl, and the golden stupa combined with the blue sky soothes our minds.
How to get to Nelligala Temple
From Colombo to Nelligala, go to Pilimathalawa, then turn left onto Muruthalawa - Godamuduna Road. Turn left onto Aladeniya - Eriyagama Road from Muruthalawa Junction. Turn left onto Kurugama Tea Factory Road just before Muruthalawa Tea Factory. From there road is in good condition until you reach the top of the Nelligala temple. It is easily accessible by vehicle or bus.
Location Map to Nelligala Temple
At the summit, the mountains of Hanthana Mountain, Knuckles Mountain Range, Aludeniya, and Pidurutalagala can be seen. The mist obscures Sigiriya and Sri Pada Mountain on the other side.
Statue of Lord Sumana Saman in Nelligala Temple
The statue of Lord Sumana Saman, on a white elephant coming down from the sky from the direction of Sri Pada Mountain, is a beautiful sight. On a clear day, the concept of this beautiful design may be observed.
Mr. Roshan Somadheera, a Sri Lankan architect by the name of Wadula in the profession, and his son created this work based on a concept by Ven. Wathurakumbure Dhammaratana Thero. The Sri Lanka Army, the pride of our nation, built the foundation from the bottom of the mountain to the summit.
On the full moon Poya day of Unduwappura, December 29, 2020, General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Sri Lanka Army opened this majestic Sumana Saman Deva monument to the public for worship.
Best time to visit the Nelligala
October - January is the main monsoon season. If you love nature, the weather will be heavenly, even if it is windy and foggy. Otherwise, the best time to visit Neligala Temple is between February and May. The daytime temperature is around 25 C - 28 C.
Early morning is the best time to visit Neligala. The cool breeze that blows through the mountains brings you freshness. When the mist opens like a window on a slowly opening platform, the distant mountain ranges in the distance create a spectacular view. A 360-degree view of the mountains can be seen at this location.
As the sun sets in the evening, the golden hue of the distant mountain range is breathtaking. You can spend more time and relax here in the evenings and even at night, taking in all the beauty that surrounds you. Nelligala is a nice place to sit and meditate for a while.
Learn before you go Nelligala Temple
Nelgala International Buddhist Center is a place of worship and it is better to wear a suitable dress when you visit it. That is, covering the waist, hips, and knees. This is common to both men and women. Also, if the dress is white, it is more appropriate. It is advisable to take off your caps and shoes and enter the temple.
We have compiled all of the necessary details about the Nelligala International Buddhist Center for you here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nelligala International Buddhist Center
- No advance booking is required to visit the Nelgala International Buddhist Center. If you are staying around Kandy, it will be easier to visit the Nelligala Temple.
- It's not required at all. There is no charge for visiting the Nelligala temple, and no advance notice is required. It is entirely free, which is fantastic!
- As Nelligala is a Buddhist place of worship, it is best to dress appropriately. The fabric should cover 75% of the shoulders and legs and body. It is better if you can wear white or light-colored clothes.