What if I told you that Pilimathalawa holds secrets whispered on the wind? Pilimathalawa is a suburb of Kandy. It sits about 10 kilometers away from the city center. The town is also about 104 kilometers away from Colombo. It’s more than just a place on a map.
Pilimathalawa’s name has an interesting origin. “Thalawa” means flat area in Sinhalese. “Pilima” refers to statues. The town’s name may or may not come from these words. Pilimathalawa is simply a standardization of its ancient village name.
Pilimathalawa is known for its traditional brassware. Skilled artisans craft beautiful pieces. These works reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. Imagine the sound of hammers shaping brass. Picture the gleam of finished products in the sunlight.
But there is much more to Pilimathalawa. The Gadaladeniya Temple is a notable destination. It is an old monastery built on a rock. An inscription says King Buwanekabaghu IV built it in 1344 AD. The temple was designed by the South Indian architect Ganesvarachchari. It features a design similar to South Indian architecture.
The Lankathilaka Buddhist temple is also nearby in Pilimathalawa. This temple dates back to the 14th century. King Buwanekabahu IV of Gampola built it in 1344 AD. Gampola was a stronghold on the banks of the Mahaveli River.
Then there’s the Embekka Temple in Pilimathalawa. King Vikramabahu III of Gampola built it. It was constructed around 1357-1374 AD. The temple is dedicated to Kataragama deviyo. A local deity, Devatha Bandara, is also worshiped here. The Drummers’ Hall draws many visitors. It features splendid wood carvings on its pillars and a high-pitched roof.
Pilimathalawa is also home to the Theological College of Lanka. It is a center of learning and religious study. This adds another layer to Pilimathalawa’s identity.
Consider Nelligala International Buddhist Center near Pilimathalawa. It was built in 2015 on top of Nelligala mountain. The Mahayana Buddha statue stands out. The Bo tree in a golden bowl and a golden stupa are wonderful. They blend with the blue sky.
Even the nearby Belumgala rock offers stunning views. It sits at the Kadugannawa Gap. From there you can see the entire Kadugannawa valley.
So, as we stand here in Pilimathalawa remember its history. Think about its artistry. And appreciate its cultural and religious significance. Pilimathalawa is more than just a suburb. It is a treasure trove of Sri Lankan heritage.