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Embekka Devalaya
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Embekka Devalaya is a Hindu-Buddhist temple complex located near Kandy, renowned globally for its exquisite wood carvings dating back to the Gampola period. Constructed around 1370 AD during the reign of King Vikramabahu III, the shrine is dedicated to the deity Mahasen, revered locally as Kataragama Deviyo. Architecturally, the most significant part of the temple is the Drummers Hall (Digge), which features 16 intricately carved wooden pillars. These carvings depict mythological creatures, animals, dancers, and complex floral patterns, showcasing the peak of craftsmanship in medieval Sri Lanka. Every pillar is uniquely designed, with no two carvings being exactly identical. The temple is divided into three main sections: the inner sanctum (Garbha Gṛha), the middle chamber, and the open hall. The entire structure was assembled using traditional joinery techniques without the use of iron nails, emphasizing the technical and aesthetic genius of the ancient builders.
- Location: Sri Lanka
- Top sights: Ambuluwaawa · National Railway Musuem · captain Dowsan tower
- Nearby: Hatton (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 109 | 86 | 105 | 175 | 164 | 101 | 82 | 92 | 129 | 234 | 274 | 212 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Visitors can enter the Embekka Devalaya, a 14th-century temple famed for its intricate wooden carvings. The interior is accessible but requires respectful behavior; the outer courtyard and pavilion are open for photography. Shoes must be removed before entering the main shrine, and photography inside the carved hall is usually not permitted to protect the ancient artwork.
Typical hours
The temple is typically open from early morning until late afternoon, with a break around noon for religious ceremonies. Exact opening hours vary by season; it is best to visit before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m. to avoid the heat and crowds.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the outer areas and the wooden pavilion, but flash and tripods are usually prohibited inside the main shrine. The elaborate wooden carvings make excellent close-up shots, especially in soft morning light.
Time needed
Plan to spend about 45 minutes to one hour exploring the temple grounds and admiring the carvings. Combining a visit with nearby temples like Gadaladeniya can fill a half-day itinerary.
Combine with
Embekka Devalaya lies close to the ancient city of Kandy, allowing you to combine it with the Temple of the Tooth and other cultural sites. The nearby Gadaladeniya and Lankatilaka temples are also worth a visit for their distinct architecture.
Getting there
The temple is located about 13 km from Kandy, reachable by tuk-tuk or local bus from the city center. A private driver can offer flexibility, but the scenic bus ride is budget-friendly and authentic.
Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning to experience the carvings in the best light and with fewer tourists. A local guide can point out hidden details in the woodwork that you might otherwise miss.
Geography
Facts
- The Drummers Hall contains a total of 514 unique wood carvings.
- The roof structure is held together by a single central wooden pin known as a Pekada.
- The temple was commissioned by King Vikramabahu III between 1357 and 1374 AD.
- Motifs include the 'Daha Ata Wankagiriya', a complex labyrinthine design.
- The pillars are made from the heartwood of the Gammalu tree (Pterocarpus marsupium).
- The temple hosts an annual Perahera festival featuring traditional drumming and rituals.
Explore nearby
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Sights in the town Embekka Devalaya (10)
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Frequently asked questions
What is Embekka famous for?
It is famous for its exquisite wood carvings on the pillars of the drummers' hall.
Where is the temple located?
It is located near Kandy, in the Udunuwara area.
When was it built?
The temple was built in the 14th century during the Gampola Kingdom era.
What motifs do the carvings show?
They show animals, mythical creatures, dancers, and floral patterns in incredible detail.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, foreign tourists are required to pay a small fee, usually around 300-500 LKR.
Embekka Devalaya: where is it located?
Embekka Devalaya is located in Sri Lanka.
Embekka Devalaya: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ambuluwaawa, National Railway Musuem, captain Dowsan tower.
Embekka Devalaya: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Jul.
Embekka Devalaya: why is it worth visiting?
Embekka Devalaya is a Hindu-Buddhist temple complex located near Kandy, renowned globally for its exquisite wood carvings dating back to the Gampola period.
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