Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

A literal as well as spiritual highlight of your visit to Kandy is the hilltop Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue, with its steps up the back leading to a spectacular view over the city. The 88ft pure-white statue, which includes a gallery displaying pictures of Buddha’s life from baby to manhood, is part of a small and intimate hillside monastery just outside the city. Construction began in 1972, and the statue, its crowning glory, was completed 10 years later. With all the classic accoutrements, including carvings and traditional historical depictions, the monestary and statue is now an established feature of the Kandy tourist trail.