Kandy is known for its cultural background, religious sites and architectural marvels. In order to best understand the city’s history and visit the variety of places it has to offer, one can take part in one of the many city tours made available through leading hospitality providers in the area such as the Earl’s Regency Kandy and many others. These hospitality providers may also be able to help you if you’re looking for a hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Attractions in Kandy include the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the Kandy Lake, the August Esala Perahera and the National Museum of Kandy. If nature is what you are intrigued by, the Knuckles and Alagalla Mountain Ranges are within reach, as well as the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
Just about an hour away from Kandy lies the Embekke Devalaya, famous for its elaborate wooden carvings. The Devalaya was built during the Gampola Period of King Wickrama Bahu III, 1371AD. Legend has it that one of his consorts together with a drummer built the once three-storeyed building as instructed through a miraculous dream, in dedication to Mahasen, popularly known as the Kataragama God.
The Devalaya is made of three components, i.e. the Sanctum of Garagha, the Digge or the Dancing Hall and the Hewasi Mandappaya or the Drummers’ Hall. This Drummers’ Hall has managed to attract many visitors over the years due to its intricate wooden detailing on the ornate pillars and high roof. These wooden carvings that adorn the pillars of the Drummers’ Hall and the entrance to the shrine are considered to be some of the best displays of true Sinhalese art.
The roof in itself is a classic carpentry masterpiece. 26 rafters are held together at the hipped end of the roof by the “Madol Kurupuwa”, a giant wooden catch-pin. This “Madol Kurupuwa” is a fine example of medieval carpentry, unlikely to be seen elsewhere in this day and age.
Although uncertain, the Embekke Devalaya would have most likely been repaired during the reign of the Sinhalese Kings of Kandy.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+