Very nice temple. You may observe all the rituals while being there. The only problem for tourists is that there are no English translations there (except "toilet", which is good), everything is written in local language and alphabet. Remember - if someone brings you flowers, you cannot take them. You just put your hands on them. Also you can buy flowers nearby (in the same territory) and put them near the statues of Gods (there are many there). If you put the flowers, you have to hack the stems and put only the flowers' blossoms. Also you may take a colorful pitch and water the sacred tree. Don't forget to take off your shoes before entering the area of the temple (near the gates, just look when the locals do that). But it's worth to take socks with you as the sand may be hot, also your feet will stay clean.

(Visited on 25 June 2023, reviewed on 17 July 2023) This is a wonderful temple with the rich influence of Buddhism and Sri Lankan heritage. It is a huge complex, but one can take their time and soak in the blissful environment of the temple 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

Peaceful place for prayer.calm and Serene. Beauty of this place I saw is lots of people offer prayers, here people could be seen meditating and reciting loud prayers Spiritual ambience is seen Huge campus But sad part is campus is not well maintained. Surprised to see lots of garbage and plastics around the temple, normally I have seen Buddhist temple are clean and neat, but this one was exception, hope the monk admin will look into it.

One of very important Temple in Kelaniya area located 30 minutes drive from Colombo City.. Buddhist people believe that Lord buddha made third and the last visit of Sri Lanka to this temple.. Very calm place.. There are so many people which selling flowers and all those religious stuff might be a disturbance for pilgrims..

It's a peacefully calm place where you may feel free. A place where the Load Buddha once visited as per the history writings. Also the closest old time buddhist temple to the Colombo.

The temple's peaceful and serene atmosphere provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Many people come to the temple to meditate, seek blessings, and connect with their spiritual selves.

Very popular and beautiful Buddhist temple which is approx 2600 years old. Large Reclined Buddha and two seated Buddha images could be seen. All the walls have paintings showing important events of Bhuddist history, like bringing saplings of the Sri Maha Bhodi from India.

A sacred temple in Sri Lanka which located close to Colombo capital. Lot people worship there. You can see the ancient craftsmanship and lot of old paintings inside this temple. Must visit if you’re keen on buddhism

This was a very beautiful temple. We visited during a religious ceremony so it was a bit packed. This is recommended if you are in Colombo. The surrounding area though is a bit run down with beggars roaming around, so expect that while waiting for your taxi.

Kelaniya Raja maha viharaya is the one of the main Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. It's believe to be visited by Lord Buddha, during Cobra King Manni - Akkitha. Actually, It's a Large worship area,floored with white sand give very pleasant, peacefull and calm environment, gives everyone unprecedented mood for Mindfulness.You can take some time to meditate or simply sit and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Less commercialized compared to similar other places.The paintings, antient and stunning architecture, relaxing environment, and lot more to explore.The temple features iconic wall paintings, notably created by Mr. Solias Mendies, a renowned master painter in Sri Lanka. You can Leave your shoes outside before entering the temple. Remember to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. You can rent sarongs at the entrance if needed. This location is just a 0.5 - hour drive from Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka.Abundant parking space available.But, Better to avoid busy poya days...🪷🪷🪷🪔🪔🪔🙏🙏🙏 👍 If you found this review helpful, please mark it as such to encourage more elaborate reviews that assist others in discovering and appreciating more wonderful places ! ✅

Very peaceful and relaxing environment! It wasn't that busy as we went on a weekday. We sat down in a shaddy spot and managed to unwound the hustle and bustle of our daily lives! Didn't feel the passing of the time.

One of very important Temple in Kelaniya area located 30 minutes drive from Colombo City.. Buddhist people believe that Lord buddha made third and the last visit of Sri Lanka to this temple.. Very calm place.. There are so many people which selling flowers and all those religious stuff might be a disturbance for pilgrims..

Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, also known as Kelaniya Temple, is a renowned Buddhist temple situated in the city of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka. With its rich history and cultural significance, the temple holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors alike. Believed to have been built over 2,500 years ago, the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya stands on the banks of the Kelani River, adding to its scenic charm. According to legends, the temple was visited by Lord Buddha himself during his third and final visit to Sri Lanka, known as the "Dakkhina Vibhanga Sutta." This historical connection has made it a revered pilgrimage site for Buddhists around the world. As one enters the temple premises, they are greeted by a magnificent white stupa, standing tall and radiating a sense of tranquility. The stupa, known as the "Mahachaitya," is said to enshrine sacred relics of Lord Buddha. It is a focal point for devotees who come to pay their respects and seek blessings. The temple complex houses several other structures that showcase the brilliance of ancient Sri Lankan architecture. The "Viharage" or the image house is a beautifully adorned hall that houses numerous statues of Lord Buddha, depicting different postures and gestures. These statues are skillfully crafted and hold great artistic and religious value. One of the most significant attractions within the temple is the stunning murals that adorn the walls of the Viharage. These vibrant paintings depict scenes from Buddhist mythology and the life of Lord Buddha, showcasing intricate details and vibrant colors. The murals are considered to be masterpieces of Sinhalese art and provide a glimpse into the island's rich cultural heritage. The temple also features a Bodhi tree, believed to be a sapling of the sacred Bodhi tree in India under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Devotees gather around the tree, offering flowers and lighting oil lamps, seeking spiritual enlightenment and guidance. Throughout the year, Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya hosts various religious festivals and events, attracting devotees and tourists from all corners of the world. The most significant celebration is the Duruthu Perahera, a grand procession that takes place in January, featuring traditional dancers, drummers, and adorned elephants. The temple comes alive with vibrant colors, music, and the devotion of the participants. In addition to its religious importance, the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya serves as a center for learning and meditation. Monks reside within the temple, guiding visitors in their spiritual journeys and imparting teachings of the Buddha. Visiting the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is a mesmerizing experience that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich Buddhist heritage of Sri Lanka, marvel at the intricate architecture, and find solace in the peaceful surroundings.

Very nice place. If you go there that environment make your mind relax. This place is very historical place. If you want to visit there trying to come week days. Public holiday and weekend little bit rushed and specially poya day is very crowded.

The Kelaniya Temple in Sri Lanka is an exquisite gem that captivates the soul with its timeless beauty. Nestled amidst lush greenery, this sacred haven resonates with tranquility and spirituality. The temple's intricate architecture and vibrant murals tell stories of ancient wisdom, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a rich cultural tapestry. As you step into the hallowed grounds, the air is infused with serenity, making it a perfect sanctuary for meditation and reflection. The resplendent Kelaniya Temple is a testament to Sri Lanka's deep-rooted heritage and a must-visit destination for those seeking an enchanting blend of art, spirituality, and history. ♥️

This sacred place believe to be visited by Lord Buddha, during King Manni~Akkitha. Large worship area, floored with white sand give very pleasant and calm environment, gives everyone unprecedented mood for Mindfulness. Many people are there still it’s cool and quiet. Irrespective of your religion, I would suggest, make a visit by your own and experience the tranquil and quiet.

We went there on Sunday and they had some kind of religious ceremony we couldn’t do much or see much but it is just temples after all. Also you have to take out your shows and walk on the sand holding your shoes with you.

I recently visited the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, and it was a truly breathtaking experience. This ancient Buddhist temple, just a short distance from Colombo, is not just a beautiful landmark but also a haven of peace and spirituality. What I loved: Stunning architecture: The whitewashed buildings with intricate carvings and the iconic stupa overlooking the lake are instantly captivating. Stepping into the temple complex felt like stepping back in time, enveloped by centuries of history and devotion. Serene atmosphere: The temple grounds exude a profound sense of calm. The gentle chanting of monks, the fragrant incense, and the soft clinking of prayer bells create a truly meditative atmosphere. Rich history: Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is believed to have been visited by the Buddha himself, adding another layer of significance to its sacred aura. It was fascinating to learn about the temple's long and storied past through the informative plaques and exhibits. Beautiful details: Everywhere you look, there's something captivating – intricate murals depicting Buddhist stories, vibrant statues, and delicate lotus ponds. I spent hours simply wandering and taking in the beauty of the place. Things to keep in mind: Dress code: Remember to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. You can rent sarongs at the entrance if needed. Footwear: Leave your shoes outside before entering the temple. Respectful behavior: Maintain silence and be mindful of the sacredness of the site. Overall, I highly recommend visiting the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya. It's a place that will leave you feeling serene, inspired, and connected to something greater than yourself. Tips: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends. Consider hiring a guide for a deeper understanding of the temple's history and significance. Take some time to meditate or simply sit and soak in the peaceful atmosphere

This location is just a 0.5-hour drive from Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. It houses one of the main Buddhist temples in the country, believed to be the place where Buddha arrived according to Sri Lankan history. The temple features iconic wall paintings, notably created by Mr. Solias Mendies, a renowned master painter in Sri Lanka. During holidays and weekends, this site experiences heavy crowds.

It's believed to be place where lord Buddha visited. One of the most impotant buddhist shrines in Srilanka. A must visit place.

One of the most sacred and historical temple in Sri Lanka. I was been there 10-15 years ago and still I can remember the calm and relaxing environment I enjoyed here. The most happiest thing is, even now, after 10-15 years it was the same as earlier. Less commercialized compared to similar other places. The paintings, antient architecture, relaxing environment, and lot more to enjoy. Abundant parking space available. Vendors inside were really helpful. Better to avoid busy poya days. Recommended to visit.

Very peaceful. Meditation place. Lord Buddhas statue is beautiful. Paintings are magnificent

My first visit here, very beautiful and peaceful place. The Bodhi tree is wonderfully large and sprawling. The geometric ceiling patterns are great to stare up at. The statues and ornaments are great. Easy for parking and to get too from car park.

Kochikade ST Anthony’s church is one of the famous Christian’s church in Sri Lanka. It’s very famous. On 2019 there was a bomb blast has been happened here. After that the reputation is gone. But still people coming to this church. On feast day we can see huge amount of people and grand lighting that’s so beautiful.

It was a very peaceful place, I went on a weekday and this place was almost full during the prayer hours around noon. Both catholic and non catholic can visit this church. Some security measures after the Easter attack in this shrine. They also prepare a food service after the prayer. Separate entry for male and female devotees at the entrance as well as the church offerings place.

It is always good to visit this church . A holy place with a sense of strong faith and many miracles. Thank you Lord for letting us visit this holy place.

St. Anthony's Shrine is a Roman Catholic church in the Archdiocese of Colombo in Sri Lanka. The church is located at Kochchikade, Kotahena, Colombo 13.

Holy Church, go and pray in faith. A very sacred place and you will always feel connected to God. Built in 1828, St. Anthony's Shrine is dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua and is a modern Roman Catholic church located in Kochikade, Colombo. The shrine has impressive Renaissance architecture and is a place of faith for Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

A calm place to visit and pray. ❤ This is a religious place of christians. A parking is avalable next to the curch.

One of the holiest churches in Sri Lanka attended by all nationalities religions and castes. People have great faith on the blessings of St. Anthony's the patron Saint of the church. There are regular masses in sinhalese Tamil and English. The feast is celebrated on the month of June in grand style attended by faithful around Sri Lanka The shrine is famous for its miraculous nature. With the new constructions post the tragic Easter Sunday bombings there is strict security and more parking space available.

Even not a Catholic go and worship. Very calm place

What an amazing place. High security on entering but is for everyone's safety. Such a beautiful place to sit and look up at the architecture of this building. The décor is phenomenal. Really beautiful tranquil atmosphere and a must visit.

When you enter the shrine, it gives you a feel of the power and strength of Jesus. Really grateful to this place for giving me the strength to live.🙏✨

St. Anthony's Shrine, Kochchikade is a well-known religious site located in Kochchikade, a neighborhood in Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. It is a significant place of worship for the Christian community, particularly for Roman Catholics. The shrine is dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua, a Portuguese Catholic saint revered for his miracles and intercession. It holds great religious and historical importance, attracting both local devotees and tourists from around the world. The architecture of St. Anthony's Shrine is notable, featuring a blend of colonial and local influences. The exterior of the building showcases intricate detailing and a distinctive white façade. Inside, visitors can explore the peaceful and prayerful atmosphere, adorned with religious symbols and artwork. The shrine is particularly busy on Tuesdays when devotees flock to offer prayers and seek blessings from St. Anthony. The atmosphere during these times is lively and vibrant, with many stalls selling devotional items, candles, and flowers. St. Anthony's Shrine, Kochchikade suffered a tragic event on April 21, 2019, when it was targeted in a series of coordinated terrorist attacks along with several other locations in Colombo. The attacks caused significant damage to the shrine and resulted in the loss of many lives. However, efforts have been made to restore and rebuild the shrine as a symbol of resilience and hope. Despite the past events, St. Anthony's Shrine, Kochchikade remains a place of reverence and devotion, where people come to find solace, offer prayers, and seek blessings. It holds a special place in the hearts of both the local Christian community and those who visit it for its religious and historical significance.

Lovely place, visited every week 39 years ago. Went to show my children the place where I being..Really peaceful ❤🙏

The church is located at Kochchikade, Kotahena, Colombo 13, and is dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua. People from all over the country and of all faiths not only Catholics visit this church to pray to St Anthony in hope for blessings, miracles, solace and penance.

Lovely colourfull church no photos inside during mass understandable and entry through gaurd station to the left beautifulll interior

The origin of the Church is accorded to Fr. Antonio. He was a companion to Joseph Vaz and had been assigned to minister to the religious needs of the Catholics in Colombo. He resided in a small house near Philip Neri's Church in Pettah and whilst working as a labourer during the day, in the nights he held service for the faithful. One day on hearing that the Dutch soldiers aware of his residence were coming to arrest him, Fr. Antonio fled towards Kotahena. Some fishermen recognized him. The erosion of the sea, which prevented them from drying their nets, and promised him protection, if he could intercede from his God forth sea to recede, frustrated them. The priest surrounded by the fishermen and the soldiers who had by then arrived, prayed and the sea receded. The Dutch soldiers reported the incident to the Governor who gave the priest the land. He built on it a small hut and since the priest was from Cochin, the land was referred to as the place in which the Cohin had a shop hence the name Kochchikade.

St. Anthony’s shrine is a Roman Catholic church in the Archdiocese of Colombo in Sri Lanka. The church is located at Kochchikade, Kotahena, Colombo 13, I have been to this mosque several times. Many people believe that everything that is prayed for in this mosque will come true.

I visited this place for the first time on December 31st, 2023 to attend their midnight mass. It was a unique experience as they conducted the prayers in both Sinhala and Tamil languages. At the mass, I participated in a majority Tamil-speaking community. It truly felt like a blessed place.

Nice place and it doesn’t matter if you’re buddhist, muslin or catholic. It’s open for everyone.

Anyone can visit this sacred place, but should go with faith. After the Easter attack incident, security measures have been enhanced. The shrine is a place of worship for both Catholics and non-Catholics and features remarkable Renaissance architecture.

Peaceful place. You can go and sit inside and pray when mass is not going on. Right security. There is a relic inside the church. You can put offerings for special mass.

Somewhat unassuming but what a beautiful and nicely decorated Buddhist temple and stupa it truly is. The statues are amazing and the walls are elegantly decorated with alluring murals of early 20th century Buddhist art depicting important events in the life of Lord Buddha. It's a beautiful, well maintained and peaceful place, just perfect to gain peace and meditate in such a busy and crowded city! We really enjoyed our visit.

The temple is very nice ,clean and well maintained with nice paintings on the walls, ceilings and corridor. The entrance is free and is well worth spending some time going around the temple.

Very colourful and tall idols of Buddha depicting his life and important events in his life.

Beautiful Temple build in late 1800s .. kept clean and neat and new addition is the Dhathu mandiraya to hold Relics of the Lord Buddhas and Arahants .Many foreigners used to visit this temple to observe the typical serene atmosphere of a Buddhist temple .Bodhi tree is very old and is sapling brought from the original Maha bodhi tree of Anuradhapura..

Very beautiful temple

A beautiful charm temple

The Asukaramaya Buddhist Temple is one of the most important tourist places in Colombo, which attracts visitors to see the architecture of this temple and watch Buddhists practice and rituals.

Buddhist temple in Thibirigasyaya Colombo 05. Very attractive shining room and painting available in the temple.

The Asukaramaya Buddhist Temple is one of the most important tourist places in Colombo, which attracts visitors to see the art of building this temple and watch Buddhists practice their religion rituals, and the history of this temple dates back to 1873 when a Buddhist monk came to this village and worked to gain many acquaintances and friendships, where the residents admired him. Itanamadala village, and they always listened to his Buddhist speeches, and as a result, this place was built to commemorate his memory.

Beautiful temple with amazing structures

My favorite temple in Colombo. Small, tranquil, and beautifully adorned with statues depicting the life of the Buddha. There is a bodi tree to the left of temple and a stupa on its right.

The feeling once you are inside is of awe and wonder. How beautiful but simple architecture. The reclining Buddha is a site to behold. As we spent our time immersed in the magnificence, we prayed to Him. The feeling is like no other.

This is situated in an open and green area with wide roads. There’s no ticket to visit this. Busy at weekends. It requires some renovation. Architecture is beautiful, people come here with family to hangout in their free time. Suppose to be iconic but there wasn’t any security except for 1-2 guards directing some traffic.

Independence square is a beautiful historical monument & an enchanting tourist attraction nestled in the hearts of Colombo. There is also a fine park, scenic oasis with pristine cleanliness. The atmosphere is very enjoyable when you set for your walks. Highly recommended & a tranquil retreat.......

Independence Memorial Hall also known as Independence Commemoration Hall is a national monument in Sri Lanka built for commemoration of the independence of Sri Lanka from the British rule with the restoration of full governing responsibility to a Ceylonese elected legislature on February 4, 1948. It is located in Independence Square (formerly Torrington Square) in the Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo. It also houses the Independence Memorial Museum.

"Independence Square in Sri Lanka is a beautiful and symbolic landmark. The elegant architecture and serene surroundings make it a peaceful spot for reflection and leisure. The historical significance of this place, where Sri Lanka gained independence from British colonial rule, adds depth to the visit. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying a tranquil atmosphere, Independence Square is a must-see destination in Colombo."

Definitely worth a visit! The architecture is truly amazing, very fine details carved into pillars and overall surrounded by beauty. it was built to commemorate the independence of Sri Lanka in 1948. It has depictions of Lord buddhas life on the ceilings. It it kept clean and seems like a spot where locals come to chill out. Near is the arcade which has many western shops, also nice architecture. The arcade was previously a mental hospital and transformed into a very modern and clean space for locals and tourists to enjoy :)

Independence Square is a beautifully landscaped public square, historical monument and tourist attraction that is situated in the center of Colombo. To get the full extent of the beauty of this location, I walked around the monument and went exploring the wooded area and the reflection pools. For those interested in a deeper look at the history of the independence movement in Sri-Lanka, there's a small museum underneath the monument.

Good historical place, must visit, spend evening time. Also many times events are there, so just enjoy them..!!

Cool place to hang out. The square has a nice feeling of openess. I reached here on a hot day around noon. There was a nice breeze blowing and since the pavilion is at a slight height with open sides it was perfect. The pavilion is made of stone which adds to the cooling effect. Lots of open space, water bodies and greenery around. Fww people were sketching various scenes here and it was a very plesant 1 hour visit. The independence arcade shopping complex is next door but looked quite empty and deserted. The place has significant historical interest. The top panels have various carving depicting what appears to be scenes from Lord Buddhas life. There are stone sculputures of lions around the periphery which give the pavilion a nice aesthetic.

Independence Square in Colombo stands as a splendid testament to Sri Lanka's journey to independence from British rule in 1948. Its enduring beauty, characterized by classic Sri Lankan architecture, is a sight to behold and a tribute to the nation's history. The architectural magnificence here is truly awe-inspiring, with intricate details etched into pillars and an overall ambiance of beauty. The open and green expanse, flanked by wide roads, offers an inviting environment. A visit to this national monument is a must, as it encapsulates history within a serene setting. The pavilion, constructed from stone, contributes to a cooling effect that adds to the comfort of the experience. The spaciousness, water features, and lush green surroundings enhance the sense of tranquility. Stone sculptures of lions gracing the periphery provide an aesthetic touch. What's remarkable is that there's no entrance fee to explore this historical gem. On the opposite side, the luxurious shopping arcade offers yet another elegant architectural marvel, akin to a small palace. Independence Square is a journey into Sri Lanka's past and a celebration of its progress. As you wander amidst architectural splendor, you'll not only immerse yourself in history but also experience the harmony of open spaces, artistry, and greenery.

Independence Memorial Hall is a national monument in Sri Lanka. A Calm, Nice place to visit, spend time and relax.

My visit to the Sri Lankan Independence Memorial Hall have been truly enchanting. The architectural intricacies, with finely carved pillars and depictions of Lord Buddha's life on the ceilings, must have been a sight to behold. This monument, built to commemorate Sri Lanka's independence in 1948, is clearly a testament to the nation's history and beauty. The fact that it's well-maintained and a popular spot for locals to relax is a testament to its significance in the community. Additionally, the nearby arcade, formerly a mental hospital, has been transformed into a modern and pristine space where both locals and tourists can enjoy Western shops amidst unique architecture. This transformation adds an intriguing layer to the area's history and appeal. Thanks for sharing your fantastic experience!

The morning and evening walks at Independence Square Colombo is my favorite of all the walking tracks available. It is full of greenery and you can take different routes every time. You’ve got architecture to admire, Colombo skies, beautiful trees and overall a beautiful view. You get a free gym facility maintained by the government. A few healthy food stalls that offer herbal porridge, king coconut and even snacks to fulfill your thirst and hunger. Children can ride their bikes or roller skate/ blade around the area. Their is a special cycle track and you can find a little shop that hires bicycles for a very reasonable hourly rate. A nice place to visit for both foreigners and locals.

It's sad to see a place like this. No proper lighting, the fountain is not working. This is such a great place it has to be maintained very well as there are the major tourist attractions but left like an old unwanted place. Sad to see the government or local bodies are not showing interest to attract tourists to boost the economy.

Finest park nestled in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka. A scenic oasis with pristine cleanliness. Diverse spaces cater to personal enjoyment or fitness pursuits. A highly recommended and tranquil retreat. You will enjoy the atmosphere while enjoying your morning and evening walks. #ColomboPark #SriLankaBeauty #RecreationSpot

Historically important site. Very impressive architecture and layout. I enjoyed hearing about the history as part of the visit.

Nice to look around a site that clearly important in Sri Lanka. Not too much to see. A shame some of the fountains were not on. The most memorable part was just across the street in a tree the fruit bats which were amazing to see.

I was there for a bicycle race event which is organised to help the patients who are suffering from bone cancer. Atmosphere is nice early in the morning. Very calm place. When the bicycle race is finished there, then it became as rush place.

A good Buddhist temple to visit in the city centre. Therefore regular Buddhist teachings to run for those who are interested. Unfortunately that's only for those who speaks Sinhalese. Look at the picture I took in my last visit and you'll see how different it is from other temples.

It’s more of a museum/ personal collection than a temple. It’s still nice to visit and see items they have there. Some quiet zones are there if you’re Buddhist and want to find a corner to pray or make merit.

One of the most beautiful Buddha temple I have ever been to. Can easily spend an hour or two in this serene place. There is a museum of antique with statues and artefacts from around the world where Buddhism is practiced. The whole place is divine and made my mind calm. After I visited this temple there is another one opposite to Court Marriott which is also beautiful. Entrance is free when you show the temple tickets.

It is one of the most beautiful sights in Colombo. The church consists of several small rooms with various sculptures and decorative elements, a museum section. Attached to the church is a souvenir shop made of carved wood that used to be a restaurant. Admission is 400 RPS ($ 2).

We really love this temple, very lively and a lot of pieces on exhibition as this seems partly a museum as well. Very interesting architecture, especially nice while the drumming ceremony

Gangarama Temple is an important Buddhist spiritual place located in Colombo city. This temple, which is revered by all Buddhists and non-Buddhists, has also attracted tourists from home and abroad. As well as the beauty here, one can get great knowledge from the museum here. Come and worship this temple with your extinguished lamps in mind.

Colombo's Buddhist temple is a must-visit. It's an old and captivating complex with a main temple, a museum, and a serene lake. You can explore various artifacts related to Buddhism in the museum. The admission fee for adults is 400 rupees, and it can be combined with access to the meditation space in the middle of the lake, which is a unique experience. If you visit on a Poya night, it takes the experience to a whole new level. The temple is conveniently located near Galle Face Green and can be reached by walking, taxi, or tuktuk. There's also a nearby lake and a bus stop within a short walk. Enjoy the beautiful evening lights and the surreal atmosphere of this place.

Such a great temple that has different influences from other architectures from different countries like China, India and Thailand. The statues were so detailed and it was like the European churches but this in a temple with Buddha statues. Don’t see this in every other countries if you’re from outside of Asia. Definitely worth visit! I paid LKR400 at the door and went early in the morning around 7am and only local people were here. I was the first tourist and had the chance to take so many pictures and videos. The traffic was smooth to get there too because it was before the peak hours. Make sure that you cover your wear or bring something to cover your shoulders and knees before entering the temple.

A place to visit once you are in Colombo. Nice historical places where you can meditate and be thankful to GOD for all the good things that happened in your life. And just a reminder to, Take charge of your life by avoiding toxic people and neutralizing their toxicity. Protect your peace, don't let toxic people pollute your world. Be safe and God Bless

This temple was my fist ever Buddha temple and i was amazed at the statue room and the details and colors inside this room. There are several other things to see too like a small museum and other statues and stupas around the property. There is an entrance fee for foreigners.

One of the most beautiful and interesting places in Colombo. The decorations, artifacts, ornaments and the architecture are amazing and calming. There are several buildings in the premises. One holds the relic, one a museum, a few halls, a Bodhi, and many more Are there to been seen and worshipped. Will need around an hour or more to appreciate all the segments in it.

As a temple - definitely worth seeing. The sort of museum is... funny. Authentic Indian figurines are mixed with toys like Transformers 😂. Overall positive. You'll walk barefooted. Entrance fee is about a 1 USD...

Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo, Sri Lanka, emerges as a captivating blend of modern architecture and cultural heritage, making it a cornerstone of spiritual exploration. Situated gracefully on the shores of Beira Lake, it stands as one of the city's most significant and visually stunning landmarks. This temple is a marvel to behold, adorned with endless sculptures of Lord Buddha and a wealth of Hindu relics that harmoniously coexist. The amalgamation of these elements renders an almost surreal ambiance within the bustling cityscape. The sculptures and resplendent golden viharas are truly captivating. One can't help but be drawn to the lifelike concrete elephant, an almost realistic portrayal that stands as a testament to craftsmanship. The temple's policy of unrestricted photography allows for capturing every intricacy within its sacred halls. A substantial museum within the temple complex holds a treasure trove of gifts from devotees, including opulent offerings like Rolls Royces, watches, and jewelry. To truly appreciate its various facets, a minimum of an hour is recommended. Foreign visitors are required to pay an entrance fee of approximately 400 LKR, encompassing access to the meditation center as well. Gangaramaya Temple extends an invitation to serenity, offering a refuge for the soul amidst the city's bustling energy. This spiritual haven encapsulates an unparalleled aesthetic, beckoning exploration, and reflection. A visit here is an experience that nourishes the senses and enriches the spirit.

Very interesting temple, composed of several very different spaces. Admission for adults is 400 rupees and can be combined with entry to the meditation space in the middle of the lake. If you can visit on a Poya night, you will take the experience to a higher level.

Looks surreal in the city. Feels a bit like china. The sculptures and golden viharas are very beautiful. Concrete elephant was inside. You can take photos of anything anywhere inside. They keep your stuff safe outside, even your helmets. Parking was on the road. Evening lights were great.

A massive Buddhist temple in the middle of the city. Don't be deceived from the outside. The complex is very large inside with plenty to see. Worth the price of admission. Be aware that it's shoes off inside and can be quite dirty. There isn't any proper footwash anywhere, find a nearby tap is the best you can ask for. If you buy a ticket here, make sure you go visit the smaller temple floating on the riverside down the road which is included in the price of admission.

Many thanks to our tour guide who was nice enough to take us to this temple even though it was not part of our travel itenary. Truly amazed and mesmerized with everything they have inside the temple. U need about half a day to see everything in it. We spend about an hour inside the temple It's more of a mesuem and the collection is just amazing. It should be a must visit if you are in Colombo. Appropriate attire is mandatory. You are given a wrap around skirt if you are wearing short clothes :)

One of the best and must visit Buddhist temple in Colombo. There is an entrance fee but it is worth it to pay and enter this temple. The temple is beautiful especially in the night.

Gangaramaya temple is located near the famous lake Beira right in the center of the city in Colombo. This is one of the most ancient temples in the city and has the smallest statue of Buddha (termed as number 13) on the left hand side of the entrance in the main building. The temple has a mix of old and new architecture and cultural essence and is typically crowded by the tourists as it's in the middle of the main hub and busy area.

Visiting Gangaramaya Temple was a serene experience. The expansive compound surpassed my expectations, and the tranquil atmosphere around the sacred tree, where devotees pray, was truly calming. Remember to remove your shoes before entering the temple. Inside, a fascinating museum-like corner houses a variety of Buddhist deity statues, adding depth to the spiritual journey.

A very interesting Buddhist temple right in the center of Colombo in a quiet and peaceful location. The facility is large and spacious. There are many beautiful rooms, impressive sculptures, beautiful decorations and numerous Buddhist exhibits to see. Shoes must be removed before entry. You can enter the temple barefoot or with socks. Men and women should not dress revealingly. Clothing on the legs that is at least knee length. The arms may be exposed. An excellent place to visit!

Beautiful place, more of a museum than a temple. There is a charge of 400 LKR for foreigners. The temple is primarily a Buddhist temple with thousands of statues of lord Buddha but you can find some other Hindu gods as well. The place is very well managed and huge collection of various antique pieces. A must see for tourists.

Serene Temple when there's not a tour happening. If a tour is going through, wait it out and sit in the peace in the garden and bathe in good energy. Long history here, doubles as a museum. 400 lkr per person for foreigners. They have lockers if you need and can provide wraps if you're wearing shorts.

Quite unique temple as it is temple as well as museum. It is very big and has different sections to explore. Definitely worth visiting in your day trip to explore Colombo city. Opt for more guided tour to know the history behind the temple.

It is more of a museum rather than a holistic place. It doesn't have the same religious vibes as other temples. It is worth checking. You pay 400 rupees to keep your shoes outside. Remember, you need to cover yourself. It is preferable to have a guide to explain things around. I went without a guide as no-one offered the same which didn't give the best experience (in my opinion)