Approximately 40km away from the city of Colombo, located in the south of Sri Lanka is the district of Kalutara. The area is famous for coconut and rubber agriculture. The lovely beaches surround the area. Many locals and even tourists are attracted to the humid weather. They prefer spending their leisure time relaxing at some of the hotels and resorts on the island such as Anantara Kalutara Resort among a number of others.
With a long standing history of a strong Buddhist culture there are a few important temples situated in Kaluthara. Out of the many things to do in Kalutara district, visiting the Kande Viharaya Temple in Aluthgama should be on top of one’s list. The temple has an established reputation that dates back to 1734. Followers gather to worship around the tall statue of Lord Buddha with bloomed lotus flowers in their hands and sometimes with small oil lamps as well. This statue is known as the Statue of Samadhi Buddha which was built a few years back. The statue can be seen from a long away from where it is situated. Many stories associated with the life of Lord Buddha are written and put into the form of art which is exhibited at the image house. This house is right under the statue. The agriculturalists around this area bring the first produce of their cultivations here, and use them to make offerings in order to receive blessings in exchange. Surrounding the temple are four other devalas, the relic chamber, an old bo tree and the dagoba. Ven. Batuanhene Thero takes the initiative in maintenance activities. As you walk into the temple, on the ceiling are portraits belonging to the last era of Kandy. The wall that runs around the temple is decorated with lotus flower petals. There’s an opportunity to feed the elephants that are nurtured at the temple grounds. It is advised that foreigners and locals visiting the temple dress fully in white clothing as a way of showing respect to holy the grounds. The temple is a place that is perfect for peaceful meditation, away from the bustle and hustle of everyday life.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.