Nalanda Gedige, is an rock hindu temple, 40 minutes drive from Dambulla on the road to Kandy. Nalanda Gedige is most of all known to be the central point of Sri Lanka. The spot is very pleasant, have a look with me !
The entrance is free, but an old man is keeping an eye on the temple. He will tell you a bit about it and will offer to take pictures of you if you wish so. He is then of course waiting for a little donation, which you cannot refuse :)
Not only the most central point of Sri Lanka, Nalanda Gedige seems to be the oldest rock building of the country. According to archeologs, the temple was built between the 7th and 10th century and was moved in 1985 when the lake was expanded. Nalanda Gedige temple was then rebuilt by the UNESCO.
Even though the temple is supposed to be hindu, there are some mix between Hindu and Buddhist religions. A Buddha statue stands up in the middle of the temple.
The rocks are beautiful and there are some cut or curious sculptures on the walls, such as little monkeys, or guess what... erotic figures !
Don't be surprised as well to meet some animals !
Nalanda Gedige is a really nice stop on the road. The temple is a less visited place in the Cultural Triangle and worths it. No tons of tourists, just a peaceful atmosphere to discover better Sri Lanka.
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