Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue

Bahirawakanda: The Colossus of Kandy

Dominating the northern skyline of Kandy, the Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue is one of the island's most recognizable spiritual landmarks. Perched atop the Bahirawa Kanda (Gnome Mountain) hill, this massive 88-foot (27-meter) tall statue of Lord Buddha in the Dhyana Mudra (meditation posture) represents the city's enduring devotion. Completed in 1993, the statue is part of the Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya and was built using donations from local residents and international Buddhists to create a beacon of peace that can be seen from almost any point in the valley below.

The Legend of 'Gnome Mountain'

The name Bahirawa Kanda translates to "the hill of the Bahirawa," a powerful bhuta or spirit in local folklore. Historically, the hill was shrouded in mystery and superstition; legends speak of human sacrifices offered to the mountain spirit in ancient times to ensure the protection of the city. The construction of the serene, white Buddha statue was seen as a spiritual transformation of the hill, replacing the dark legends of the past with a symbol of compassion and enlightenment. Today, the statue is beautifully illuminated at night, appearing as a glowing guide for those traveling through the highlands.

Panoramic Vistas: Kandy at Your Feet

While the statue itself is a marvel of modern sculpture, the primary reason many travelers make the ascent is for the panoramic views. From the base of the statue, Kandy city unfolds like a miniature model. You can clearly see the glistening Kandy Lake, the golden roof of the Temple of the Tooth, and the distant peaks of the Knuckles Mountain Range. For an even more spectacular vantage point, there is a set of stairs leading to a platform behind the Buddha's head, which offers a 360-degree view of the entire Kandy plateau.

The Temple Murals and Relics

Adjacent to the giant statue is the main temple building, which houses a collection of vibrant murals depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha—from his birth as Prince Siddhartha to his final Parinirvana. The temple also stores several smaller, intricately carved statues and a gallery of photographs that document the monumental effort involved in building the colossus. The atmosphere on the hilltop is significantly cooler and quieter than the city below, providing a perfect moment for meditation or quiet reflection.

Hilltop Discoveries with HBS Tours

We curate visits to Bahirawakanda that focus on both the spiritual significance and the aesthetic beauty of the site:

• Sunset Summit Experience: We time our visits to reach the summit just as the sun begins to set over the tea mountains. Watching the city lights slowly flicker on around the dark waters of Kandy Lake is a truly magical experience.
• Photography Expedition: Our local experts guide you to the specific angles where you can capture the giant statue against the backdrop of the cloud forests, perfect for professional or amateur photography.
• Legend & Folklore Session: Join our narrators for a discussion on the transition from the ancient 'Bahirawa' spirit worship to modern Buddhism, explained through the history of the temple.

Travel Logistics: Climbing to the Clouds

The Bahirawakanda statue is located approximately 2 km from Kandy city center. While the road is quite steep, it is well-paved and easily accessible by tuk-tuk or car. For those seeking a bit of exercise, it is possible to walk up from the Kandy Railway Station in about 20-30 minutes. Pro Tip: As this is a holy site, you will be asked to remove your shoes at the base; we recommend bringing a pair of socks if visiting during the day, as the stone tiles can get quite hot in the sun. Traditional dress code applies.