On the way to Kandy we were given the possibility to see the Golden Temple in Dambulla (from the outside), together with a Hindu Temple, both of which must have been quite interesting to visit, had we had time to do so. We feel that very little was said or shown in what concerns Hinduism, taking into account the fact that it is the second largest denomination after Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
The Hindu temple architecture in Sri Lanka, according to what I have read, is rather unique, maybe because of the infusion of Hinduism with Buddhism or even the limited influence from the mainland. The truth is this particular temple 's facade was very impressive with such a huge amount of gods and goddesses in its pantheon, apart from the Trinity Hindu devotees supposedly worship - Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver and Shiva the destroyer.
I would have liked to have (maybe) "explored" a little bit more this aspect and any others therewith associated, though I have realised it will have to be some other time.
Some sort of ceremony was going on in its interior, but despite the fact it was shown to us from the outside by a guardian of the temple who insisted we could go in, our guide didn't allow us but a few minutes before getting on the road once more.
I feel we may have missed a geat opportunity that we may not beeasily granted again ... this was one of the few disadvantages of having timetables to follow ... though I guess we can't have it all (I suppose)...
(to be continued)
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