Opanayaka Kande Viharaya
Description
Opanayaka Kande Viharaya, located along the Balangoda road in the Ratnapura district, approximately 130 kilometres from the 130th milepost, lies a hidden gem that whispers tales of ancient Sri Lanka's spiritual and cultural fabric. Opanayaka Kande Viharaya, also known historically by names such as Sri Chandrasekharama Ancient Kande Viharaya, Kande Viharaya, and Galge Viharaya, stands majestically atop a hill, embraced by nature's unparalleled beauty. This temple, enveloped in lush greenery and housing natural springs, is a beacon of tranquillity and spiritual solace.
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Tucked away from the bustling life, Opanayaka Kande Viharaya is more than just a place of worship; it's a journey back in time. As one ventures through the 1 km stretch from the main road, the path unveils a landscape adorned with the monastery's living quarters and dining hall at the lower section, while the upper echelon hosts the Dhamma hall. The entire premise is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of man and nature, with the forest canopy providing a natural umbrella over the sacred grounds.
The Echoes of Ancient Wisdom
The architectural and spiritual significance of Opanayaka Kande Viharaya is monumental. The temple's precincts are divided into two main areas: the Sanghawasa (monks' living quarters) and the Dharmashala (Dhamma hall), each telling a story of the devotion and communal life of the monks. The presence of two significant natural springs within the temple grounds adds a mystical charm, serving both the monastic community and the visiting devotees.
Ascending the hill, one encounters the revered structures of the temple: the stupa, the Bodhi tree, the shrine room, and the devale (a shrine dedicated to a deity), each crafted from the living rock, narrating stories of faith and perseverance. The main temple hall, a rock cave extending 150 feet in length and 15 feet in height, houses ancient murals and statues, encapsulating the artistic and religious fervour of the era.
Artistic Marvels Enshrined in Stone
The temple's sanctum, a cave adorned with a 42.5-foot-long and 15-foot-high chamber, houses a captivating collection of Buddha statues in varying postures, each a masterpiece of ancient craftsmanship. The striking resemblance of the temple's carvings and statues to those found in the renowned Dambulla Cave temple hints at a profound cultural and religious connection spanning centuries.
Preserving the Echoes of the Past
The restoration efforts undertaken in 1954 highlight the temple's resilience and the continuous devotion to preserving its historical and spiritual legacy. Despite the challenges posed by time, Opanayaka Kande Viharaya is a testament to the enduring spirit of Sri Lankan Buddhism and its heritage.
As one makes their way deeper inside the temple, they come across intricate murals that, in addition to representing revered monks and deities, depict scenes from the Buddha's life. These murals, some dating back further than the Kandyan era, offer a glimpse into the artistic and spiritual lineage of Sri Lankan Buddhism. Opanayaka Kande Viharaya is not just a monument of religious significance; it's a sanctuary where the past and present merge, offering a tranquil retreat for the soul. Its historical, architectural, and spiritual dimensions provide a unique perspective on Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist tradition, making it an indispensable part of the island's cultural and religious tapestry.
