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Nalanda Gedige is a unique 8th-to-10th-century stone temple near Matale, Sri Lanka. Known as the island's geographical center, it features a fascinating architectural fusion of a Buddhist layout with Dravidian/Hindu design elements. To save it from a reservoir flood in the 1980s, it was relocated brick by brick to its current serene lakeside setting.
History & Cultural Significance
Constructed between the 8th and 10th centuries during a period of shifting power, the sanctuary is celebrated as an outstanding example of cultural syncretism, blending Sinhalese, Tamil, Buddhist, and Hindu elements. Although its design mirrors that of a South Indian Hindu temple—with features like a mandapam (waiting hall) and an ambulatory path—archaeological findings like moonstones and a pillar inscription reveal it was historically used as a Buddhist monastery. Some scholars believe it belonged to the esoteric Mahayana or Vajrayana (Tantric) Buddhist sects, evident from eroded, tantric carvings similar to those in Khajuraho.
Architecture & Notable Features
Nalanda Gedige is the oldest building in Sri Lanka constructed entirely from natural stone, built without the use of bricks. The structure beautifully merges contrasting styles:
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"We are an older couple celebrating a lot of years of marriage (and hiking) in Sri Lanka in February this year, for two weeks, and three days in the Maldives. Although we love to drive, we chose to go with a driver-guide, after planning the trip completely independently. (It turned out he might help us in the planning and selection of hotels, we own). The main advantage is reaching the sites, some of which are tired, refreshed after someone else used to bad roads, with bad signage - If you are i..." Sam
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