Explore three of the most ancient and interesting temples in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. All the three temples are a short distance from one another and are memorable expeditions for a heritage lover. The temples are also referred to as the 'three-temple loop' and are revered for their excellent craftsmanship and historic importance to the Gampola era of Sri Lanka.
Explore the three-temple loop in the lush countryside of Gampola, a place that houses numerous Kandyan-era temples and shrines over green fields and quiet winding lanes. The three temples, Gadaladeniya Viharaya, Embekke, and Lankathilaka form the aptly named 'three temple loop', and serve as a living history to Sri Lanka's extensive Buddhist heritage and craftsmanship.
Transport back into the 12th century in the Gadaladeniya temple, where the millennia-old cross-influence of Buddhism and Hinduism is seen. Soak into the grandeur of architecture the incredible size of the Buddha statue and the remarkable artistry in the detailing of the artwork.
Ride through the lush paddy fields in your tuk-tuk to the Lankathilaka temple, one of the most magnificent architectural edifices in the Gampola Kingdom. It was built on the crest of a large rock named Panhalgala overlooking the Hantane Mountain range in the Hiripitiya hamlet in Udunuwara.
Make a quick stop at a plantation where coffee, tea and pepper are cultivated side-by-side before exploring the third temple of the loop, Embekka Devalaya, renowned for its intricately carved wooden pillars and its high pitched roof.