Gangarama Raja Maha Viharaya – Lewella
The temple known as Gangaramaya is believed to have been built by King Kirti Sri Rajasinghe (1747-1781 AD). According to a rock inscription, when he became king, he noticed a stone statue of ancient origin in a palmyra garden and ordered the construction of a viharaya with stone walls and pillars, a roof with tiles, and a stone image of the Buddha inside. The image was decorated with vermillion paintings, golden leaves, and paintings of five hues, and enshrined with relics. The temple was named Gangaramaya, and in 1752 AD, the image was completed and blessed with great solemnity and offerings.
Today, the temple appears modest from the outside with a high roof and lion-symbol eave tiles. However, inside, it houses a small shrine room dominated by a 27-foot standing figure of the Buddha. The walls are covered with paintings depicting scenes of Buddha's life and Jataka Stories, valued as excellent examples of Kandyan Sittara Art. The temple is a testament to the artistic and religious...
Today, the temple appears modest from the outside with a high roof and lion-symbol eave tiles. However, inside, it houses a small shrine room dominated by a 27-foot standing figure of the Buddha. The walls are covered with paintings depicting scenes of Buddha's life and Jataka Stories, valued as excellent examples of Kandyan Sittara Art. The temple is a testament to the artistic and religious...
