The Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is a towering white Buddha statue that sits atop Bahirawakanda Hill, overlooking the city. The statue is a symbol of peace, serenity, and the Buddhist faith.
The statue was built in 1993 and is 26.83 meters (88 feet) tall. It is made of white marble and depicts the Buddha in the Dhyana Mudra, or meditation posture. The statue is surrounded by a white pagoda and a platform that offers stunning views of Kandy and the surrounding countryside.
The Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue was built in 1993 by Ven. Ampitiye Dharmarama Thero, a monk from the Amarapura Nikaya. It is said that the monk had a vision of the Buddha, who instructed him to build a statue on Bahirawakanda Hill. The statue was built with the help of donations from Buddhists from all over the world.
The Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world. It is also a popular tourist destination, as it offers stunning views of Kandy and the surrounding area.
How to get to the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue
The Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue is located about 2 kilometers from Kandy city center. Visitors can take a taxi, tuk-tuk, or bus to the statue. There is also a staircase that leads to the statue from the city center, but it is a steep climb.
Things to do at the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue
Visitors to the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue can:
- Pray and offer flowers and candles to the Buddha statue.
- Meditate in the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the temple complex.
- Enjoy the stunning views of Kandy and the surrounding countryside from the platform surrounding the statue.
- Visit the pagoda and learn more about the Buddhist faith.
- Tips for visiting the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue
- Here are a few tips for visiting the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue:
- Dress respectfully when visiting the temple complex.
- Be mindful of your noise levels, as this is a sacred place.
- Do not touch the Buddha statue.
- Remove your shoes before entering the pagoda.
- Make a small donation to the temple if you are able.
Conclusion
The Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue is a must-visit for anyone visiting Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is a majestic and inspiring sight that offers visitors a chance to experience the peace and serenity of Buddhism.