Bahiravokanda Vihara: Some Divinity for your soul!

Sri Lanka is one of the top tourist destinations in South Asia. One of the major reasons is the Green carpet landscape and scenery views across Sri Lanka. It also a well-known place for divine temples which could lift up the Spiritual soul. Speaking of which, the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue in Kandy is one of the topmost attractions in Sri Lanka, making Kandy tour packages a favourite among spiritual and cultural travellers. While on vacation, every tourist must visit this place to see wonderful architecture and the panoramic view of Kandy city.

Kandy Sri Lanka

Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

The Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue in Kandy is one of the well-known places among the tourists as well as Locals. It was also called “Big Buddha”, true to its name It is 88 feet in height, which makes it a breathtaking view from all of Kandy City. It was built completely in the year 1992. Located on the Bahirawa Kanda hill, which is also known as “Devil Hill”. Let see something more about this place to make it easier for you while visiting.

Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

History of Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

This temple was actually built on the land that was donated by the Minister of Lands, Hector Kobbekaduwa. Initially, there was a lot of opposition against building this temple by the senior Monk of the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) because it would overshadow the centre of Siyam Nikaya. Later, after much controversy, in the year 1980, Hinatiyana Dhammaloka, the chief monk of the Amarapura Nikaya, got the legal rights to build the Vihara Buddha Statue at Bahiravokanda. The temple’s fascinating past continues to attract travellers exploring historical sites in Sri Lanka.

In the late 1980s they started to construct it and finished in 1992. It was officially opened on 1 January of 1993 by the President Ranasinghe Premadasa

Also read: 10 Most Instagrammable places in Sri Lanka

How to reach Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

You can easily reach the base of the Buddha statue by tuk-tuk, making Sri Lanka transportation convenient for travellers visiting this attraction in Kandy. From there, it will be a 20-minute walk up the hill to reach the statue and enjoy its outstanding top view of the City. It is located just 2 km away from Kandy Railway Station.

Address:  Bahirawa Kanda Rd, Kandy, Sri Lanka
Entry Fee: Approximate price starts from 200 LKR. Timings: Open 24 hours a day.
Best time to Visit: Early morning or After sunset

Attractions near Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

• Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
  It is also one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka than the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue. It is also called the Glorious Tooth Temple. In ancient times, the relic has played a vital role in local politics because of the belief that whoever holds the relic will hold the governance of the country.

• National Museum
  The national museum of Kandy is located next to the temple of the tooth in the part of Former Royal Palace Kandy. You can witness various weapons Jewels and tools of the Kandyan period. In 1942, this place was opened for the public view

• World Buddhist Museum
  It is the First International Buddhist Museum in the World. It located near to the National Museum and Temple of the tooth

Conclusion:

The Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue is more than just a famous landmark in Kandy—it is a place where spirituality, history, and breathtaking views come together. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, cultural insights, or stunning city panoramas, this hilltop attraction is well worth your time. Explore it with Sri Lanka vacation packages to make the most of your journey and create unforgettable memories while discovering one of Kandy’s most iconic sights.

FAQs

1. What is special about Bahiravokanda Temple?
Bahiravokanda Temple is special because it is home to the giant 88-foot Buddha statue overlooking Kandy. It also offers peaceful surroundings and beautiful panoramic views of the city.

2. How tall is the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue?
The Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue is 88 feet (about 27 metres) tall. It is one of the tallest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka and can be seen from many parts of Kandy.

3. Where is the temple of Bahiravokanda?
The Bahiravokanda Temple is located on Bahirawa Kanda Hill in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is about 2 km from Kandy Railway Station and is easy to reach by tuk-tuk.

4. What are the opening hours of Bahiravokanda Temple?
Bahiravokanda Temple is open 24 hours a day for visitors. However, the best time to visit is early morning or around sunset for pleasant weather and stunning views.

5. How can I travel from Kandy to Bahiravokanda Temple?
Kandy to Bahiravokanda Temple is a short journey that takes around 10 minutes by tuk-tuk. You can then walk for about 20 minutes to reach the Buddha statue at the top.