If you are up for a challenge, enjoy a walk to three compelling temples. Located in the Central Highlands, just a few kilometres to the south west of Kandy, a 7km (4mi) path links the Embekke, Lankathilake and Gadaladeniya temples. The path takes you past fertile rice fields and through small bustling towns lined with colourful houses and the sight of local woman swathed in vibrant saris. Along the way, chat to friendly locals and sip tea in tea stalls. The three temples can also be conveniently linked by car.
Gadaladeniya Temple
Famous for its beautiful stone carvings, this Temple was built on a flat rock at Diggala in the 14th century. Faded paintings from around that time provide many clues as to the way the Temple was built. The architecture is South Indian, so the general belief is that the workers were from abroad.
Lankathilaka
The majestic Lankathilake Vihare, one of the most magnificent architectural edifices in the Gampola Kingdom was built on the crest of a large rock named Panhalgala overlooking the Hantane Mountain range in the Hiripitiya hamlet in Udunuwara.
Embekke Devalaya
Embekke Devalaya is situated in the Ambakka Village and was built in the 14th century by King Wickremabahu III. The wooden Temple features a courtyard where the hewisi drums and trumpet were played during ceremonies.
Visiting all three temples with a car will take about 2½ hours and the best time to visit is in the morning. Your &BEYOND guide will accompany you throughout the tour.
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