Embekka Devalaya is a place with a long history in Udu Nuwara in the Kandy District. It is said to have been built during the reign of King Vikramabahu III of Gampola Kingdom.
Except for the Devalaya, the front is completely carved out of wood. There are about 28 wooden pillars, each decorated with a variety of carvings. Their base is octagonal, and the tops are rounded with four leaves. In addition, carved beams and rafters are a special feature. The most prominent of these carvings are swans, double-headed eagles, rope designs, breastfeeding image, horse-riding soldier, female dancer, wrestler, bird-human hybrid, elephant-hybrid. The entire temple has been decorated with 514 unique design. Among them are one hundred and 125 decorations, two hundred and 256 Liyawala styles and 64 Lotus designs.
The carvings at the Embakke Devalaya have been declared by the UNESCO as the best-detailed wood carvings in the world.
