Ridee Viharaya රිදී විහාරය

Incredible place. If in the area, you should definitely visit. The temple is absolutely stunning, the scenery idyllic, and the artwork marvelous! Where else on earth can you see a reclining Buddha together with Dutch tiles depicting Christian scenes? History alive!

A historical buddhism temple. There is big statue of Buddha was build in this temple which was take around 12 years to design build by indian architect. You will see caved historical buildings and sacred stautues here. This temple was initially built by King Dutugamunu. There is a view point also here. Well maintained beautiful environment. This temple provide accomodations for tourists also. Plenty of parking also available.

The heart is apparent here. Come if you value an authentic experience of Buddhist life. They are welcoming. Provide you with a tour and also have access to the special history going back over 2 millennia. The service people are wonderful and caring and also carry that light in their eyes born of deep spiritual values. We are very lucky to have spent 4 days here.

Ridi Viharaya lies about 20 kilometres away from Kurunegala in a small village called Ridi Gama. reach the Ridi Vihara, proceed along Kandy- Kurunegala highway turn off at Mallawapitiya and proceed to Ridigama for about 13 kM. Then proceed about 2 kM to find Ridi Vihara which is built under a rock outcrop which stands about 200 feet high from the surrounding area. This temple is said to be built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC as a memorial to the place where he found a silver 1. Maha Viharaya This is one of the largest caves of statues in Sri Lanka, which is more than 100 feet high. There is a drip-lined cave with three statues inside and a medium sized stupa that can be seen from the outside. Once you enter the temple, the first sacred structure to be found is the Maha Viharaya 2. Uda Viharaya Near the entrance to the upper temple there are beautiful wingstones and a secured moonstone. In the Uda Viharaya there is a magnificent dragon pandal which is unique to the Ridee Viharaya and a kind of artifact is not found in any other temple in Sri Lanka. 3. Waraka Velandu Viharaya It is believed that during the Anuradhapura period, a group of traders offered jackfruit to arahant Indraguptha and it is considered that this is the temple where jackfruit was partaken by the arahants. This cave temple has a stone pavilion attached to a small cave. The pillars of the pavilion are adorned with decorations found in Hindu temples, and the architectural features are also reminiscent of Hindu features. This is considered to be a 12th century creation and Buddha statues and paintings have been created inside during the Kandyan period. It's a great viewpoint, full of trees, calm and quiet place. Recommended to visit and feel it.

Sssshhht 🤫 I feel blessed that this had been my first visit to a temple. Arriving we we greeted only by a monkey. Soon a very welcoming man asked us if we’d like thee and some sweets. It was so good to finally have some silence. Even if the monks were doing some diy still silence. Please leave this place as you’ve found it ❤️ As always, everybody gets five stars

This place is unique. It was the best decision to come here and stay 3 days. I will never forget this special place!!! The silver temple is not crowded neither is it empty. The wide temple area is perfect to walk around, sit for a while (there are many sitting areas) and enjoy breathtaking views. The five monks living here are welcoming all visitors in a peaceful and open minded way no matter where you from or which religion you have. I planned to stay one night (I requested it via email) but quickly extended one more night in the next by pilgrim rest (2 minutes walk between temple area and pilgrim rest). Also 3 delicious cooked meals per day from the cook Chandana were included. The service host “Mama” at the pilgrim rest has a special place in my heart since he is a shining person and always there for you even though he barely speaks English. My room was basic but it had everything I needed (also en-suite bathroom), the air conditioning also worked very good. During my stay I attended different pujas (Bhuddist ceremonies) and always got included in it, either by the monks or the Singhalese visitors. They let me light candles or put flowers to the Buddha statues. The monk D.M. Showed me around and guided me to some hidden caves where more than 2000 years ago monks meditated. He took the time for long conversations with me and told me a lot about Bhuddism and the live as a monk. What a brilliant teacher and honest person he is while he is also super funny. In the morning I took part in the mediation that was guided by two very young monks. My entire stay was free totally of cost! It is an offer by the monastry to all people that are interested in learning more about Bhuddism or practicing it (e.g. mediation). I was never even asked for a donation from anyone in the place. For me of course it was 100% sure in the end that I will leave a donation right in one of the donation boxes before leaving. A TukTuk from Kurunegala costs 2000 LKR and takes about 30 minutes. From there you can catch buses to Kandy or Dambulla or Anuradhapura for example.

Ridee Viharaya is a serene and historically rich Buddhist temple situated close-by to kurunegala. The site is world famous for its impressive ancient architecture, beautiful surroundings and well preserved Buddha statues. Visitors are often captivated by the carvings and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for reflection and spiritual exploration. Pahangala is also nearby attraction that visitors can visit with the help of a tour guide.

Amazing place! Exceptional serenity! Very warm welcome! Invited by the head monk to stay for one night in this historical heritage! Learned a lot and will never forget. Guests are truly welcome! Thank you also to Vijitha and Mama! 🙏