Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most well-known Buddhist temples in Colombo
The Gangarama Temple, which is believed to have started in the late nineteenth century, is a very unique and well-known religious place located in the center of Colombo City. For someone who is coming from Colombo Fort, the easiest way to reach this place is to use a tuk tuk, spending as little as Rs.250/-.
The Gangarama temple and the shrine belonging to it are definitely not to be missed and this cultural place is a must-see when visiting Colombo.
At the entrance, you can store your shoes, luggage, etc. very safely. The special thing is that there are lockers to keep valuable luggage and they hand over the keys us. If you go on weekdays, you will have the opportunity to see around without hassle.
There are very special decoration and murals in this temple and the Buddha statues inside are very well made.The specialty of the “Bodhi Tree” in this temple is that it is an offshoot of Anuradhapura Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. Here we are allowed to touch the Bhodhi tree. We know that there is no opportunity to touch the Bodhi in other temples.
In addition, in this temple, you can see Buddha statues made in three different styles: stone, metal, and wood.
There are also Buddha statues belonging to Theravada and Mahayana traditions.
The “Dhatu Mandir” (Relics Shrine) located in this temple is another place that has attracted the special attention of many worshipers. It is said that the relics of Maharahats “Sivali” have been deposited in it, as well as the relics donated by the former presidents and dignitaries of Sri Lanka.
This temple also consists of a very old library and a museum with a large collection of artefacts. There are many valuable items donated from foreign countries. There are fossils, ivory and valuable art crafts made with ivory.
You can see an x ​​class Benz car manufactured in 1936 which is said to have been used by an famous businessman named DR Wijewardena.
Another interesting attraction in Gangarama is the “Semamalakaya” facing the Colombo city center building. The Semamalakaya is built on the lake called “Bere.” it must be said that the serenity and the beauty of this temple will captivate anyone who visit this temple.
This temple has been constructed according to the Sri Lankan architecture as well as the architecture of Thailand and China.
The “Navama Maha Perahera” which is held in February should be seen at least once in a lifetime.
