Hedeniya

Slipping through time, let’s journey to the quaint town of Hedeniya. Hedeniya is a vibrant village nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Central Province, within the Kandy district. The bustling Kurunegala Kandy main road cuts right through Hedeniya. This positions the town perfectly, a mere 13 km from the historic city of Kandy and 29 km from Kurunegala. Imagine yourselves standing at the center of Hedeniya. Right before you lies the Hedeniya Pujapitiya subway, a vital artery connecting numerous surrounding villages like Ankumbura, Halgolla, and Watagoda to the main road leading to Kandy. Hedeniya isn’t just a geographical crossroads. It’s a historical crossroads too. A short distance away, the revered Hedeniya Raja Maha Viharaya stands as a testament to centuries of Buddhist devotion. Also known as Sendeniya Viharaya or Galgane Viharaya, this temple is unique. It houses not one, not two, but three image houses. Each represents a distinct period in Sri Lankan history: the Gampola Period, the Kandyan Period, and the modern era. The oldest of these, nestled within a drip-ledged cave, dates back to the Gampola Period. Legend whispers that it was commissioned by Henakanda Biso Bandara, the consort of King Wikramabahu III. A beautifully carved stone door-frame, adorned with traditional Sinhalese designs, welcomes you into this ancient sanctuary. Inside, a serene plastered image of the seated Buddha, crafted from stone, emanates an aura of tranquility. The second image house, built in the Kandyan style, stands proudly to the west of the Gampola image house. Its construction is attributed to either Prince Wasala Bandara Samantha, son of King Sri Rajadhi Rajasinha, or King Sri Vikrama Rajasinghe himself. The debate continues to this day among historians. This image house rests upon a low granite podium, intricately carved with traditional motifs. A round Sandakada Pahana, or moonstone, characteristic of the Kandyan era, graces the entrance. Within its walls, vibrant paintings and sculptures narrate stories of the Kandyan tradition. Finally, the most recent image house, also situated within a cave, represents the modern era. It was built approximately 50 years ago by a devoted Buddhist monk named Ambanwela Gunaratne Thera. Hedeniya and its temple offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan history and spirituality. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, allowing visitors to connect with the past and appreciate the enduring power of faith.