Whispers of ancient kings echo here. This is Udaperadeniya Viharaya. Right before you stands a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich history. This isn’t just any temple. Udaperadeniya Viharaya holds centuries of stories within its stones. Built in 1344 it thrived under the patronage of King Bhuvanekabahu IV. He reigned from 1341 to 1351 AD.
The temple’s design is a masterpiece. Ganesvarachari a South Indian architect crafted it. He blended Dravidian styles with Sinhalese influences. Even Indo-Chinese patterns appear in the architecture. The main shrine is unique. It is built entirely of sculpted granite. Two brick shikharas top it off. They sit on a massive stone slab.
Notice the Makara Thorana. It’s an elaborately carved dragon’s arch. It guards the entrance to the shrine. The arch is adorned with images of various deities. Brahma Sakra and others. Inside a seated Buddha statue awaits. It’s 2.43 meters high. The Buddha sits in the Dhyana Mudra the posture of meditation. Four smaller Buddha statues flank it.
A devale dedicated to Vishnu stands nearby. Originally it was dedicated to Varuna. But Vishnu’s popularity grew. The shrine changed accordingly. The Vijayothpaya shrine lies in the middle of the temple compound. King Parakramabahu V built this later addition. It is a stunning secondary shrine. It features a central stupa. Four smaller stupas extend outwards in a cruciform design. Each has its own shrine room. Statues of seated Buddhas fill these rooms.
Udaperadeniya Viharaya wasn’t always so well-maintained. It fell into disuse. King Vira Parakrama Narendra Sinha changed that. He gave the temple to Weliwita Sri Saranankara Thero. His pupils cared for it ever since. Udaperadeniya Viharaya stands tall. It tells a tale of kings devotion and architectural brilliance. A tale you will long remember.