Sri Bhakta Hanuman Temple | Nuwara Eliya
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Hindu Temple
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History & Culture
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Religious Place
About this Attraction
Visiting the Sri Bhakta Hanuman Kovil Temple in Ramboda was a truly enlightening experience. Perched on a stunning hill surrounded by the lush greenery of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, the temple offered a blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty that was simply captivating. Just 30 kilometres north of Nuwara Eliya, the journey was a picturesque drive, winding through tea estates and misty hills.
A Spiritual Awakening: My First Glimpse of Hanuman
The temple’s focal point, the 18-foot-tall statue of Lord Hanuman, left me in awe. It is the tallest Hanuman sculpture in Sri Lanka, a towering presence that exudes power and devotion. According to local lore, this is where Hanuman rested while searching for Sita Devi, making it a significant stop on the Ramayana Trail.
As I walked towards the temple, the serene chants of devotees and the aroma of incense created a peaceful atmosphere. I learned that the Chinmaya Mission, a spiritual movement dedicated to spreading Vedantic teachings, built this temple in 1999. Their vision was to honour Hanuman and his integral role in the Ramayana story.
Exploring the History and Legends
The surrounding area is steeped in Ramayana mythology. Just a short distance from the temple lies a village called "Ravana Goda," the Tamil name for Ramboda, Rampadai, translates to "Rama’s force." It is believed that this is where Lord Rama gathered his troops during his quest to rescue Sita Devi. This historical connection added an intriguing layer of depth to my visit.
The Divine Pooja Experience
I witnessed a unique Pooja held on a full moon Poya day at the temple. Devotees gathered in reverence as the Hanuman statue was adorned with silk and vibrant flowers. The energy of the prayers and chants was palpable, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of spiritual connection. I was told that during Hanuman Jayanthi, the temple comes alive with grand celebrations, including chariots and parades.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- Getting There: The temple is conveniently located on the Kandy-Nuwara Eliya main road in Thawalamtenne. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Kandy or a 30-minute drive from Nuwara Eliya. The scenic route through Ramboda's hills is an experience in itself.
- Timings: The temple is open daily from 7 AM to 1 PM and 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
- Dress Code: Modest attire is necessary; shoulders and knees should be covered as a sign of respect.
- Donations: While there is no entrance fee, donations are welcome to support temple maintenance.
A Peaceful End to My Visit
As I left the temple, I couldn’t help but marvel at its serene setting and spiritual significance. The sight of the majestic Hanuman statue standing tall against the backdrop of misty hills is a memory I will always treasure. Whether you are a devotee or simply someone seeking a tranquil escape, the Sri Bhakta Hanuman Kovil Temple is a must-visit destination that offers both spiritual fulfilment and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural tapestry.
Best Time to Visit
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This is at its most enchanting from December to March, offering a magical experience during these idyllic months.
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Year's busiest month is April
Required time for Explore this Attraction
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Visitors typically require around 1 hour to explore this attraction and enjoy its key highlights.
Highlights
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Bike Parking
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Free Entry
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Parking Available
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Toilets Available