Destination
Ancient Ranawana Raja Maha Vihare
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Turn left near the Nanu Oya Bridge on the Colombo-Kandy Road and travel one kilometer to find this temple in a tranquil environment replete with vivid greenery near a picturesque mountain.
Although this temple was in a dilapidated condition for some time, it has now been restored to its former glory, a full-fledged Buddhist place of worship enhancing the splendor of Yatinuwara.
The renovated temple hall, Chaitya and Bodhi Prakaraya (fence/wall) as well as the newly added statues of the 28 Buddhas with Bo trees, statues of the 80 grand disciples, the 80-cubit statue of Approaching Buddha, add to the tranquil beauty of the formerly jungle-covered mountain peak.
Yet another exceptional feature is the replica of the most ancient Sanchi Stupa believed to be erected by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd Century. The ancient Ranawana Temple at Pilimatalawa in Kandy is the only location where a replica of the North Entrance of Sanchi Stupa can be seen in Sri Lanka.
This outstanding place of worship replete with new Monks’ quarters not only attracts local and foreign Buddhist devotees alike, but also promotes discipline and virtues inculcated by way of a religious setting.
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