Gangaramaya Temple

Gangaramaya is the most visited and most talked-about temple in Colombo — not because it is the holiest or the oldest, but because it is the most extraordinary. Built in the late 19th century on the banks of Beira Lake in the Slave Island neighbourhood, Gangaramaya has accumulated over a century's worth of donations from Buddhist devotees around the world, creating a collection of religious objects that defies easy categorisation: gold Buddha statues from Thailand and Japan; antique cars donated by wealthy patrons; ivory tusks, model ships, ancient manuscripts, crystal figurines, a life-size elephant, religious relics and art objects from a dozen countries — all crammed into a complex of halls that combine Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian and Chinese architectural styles in a synthesis that is either gloriously eclectic or magnificently chaotic, depending on your perspective.

The Temple Complex

Gangaramaya is not a single building but a complex of interconnected halls, shrines, pavilions and open courtyards spread over a considerable area. The main shrine hall contains the principal Buddha image — a large, gold-covered seated figure. The adjacent museum halls are the most remarkable part of the complex — room after room of extraordinary objects: a golden throne gifted by Thailand, a collection of ancient monks' robes, cases of gems and jewellery, a library of palm-leaf manuscripts, and display cases of religious art from across Asia. The lakeside setting adds considerably to the atmosphere, particularly at dawn when monks chant and the light hits the golden spires across the water.

Navam Perahera

Every February on the Navam full moon Poya day, Gangaramaya hosts the Navam Perahera — one of Colombo's largest and most spectacular processions. Decorated elephants, costumed dancers, drummers and torch-bearers parade through the streets around Beira Lake. The Perahera is a deeply traditional spectacle and one of the best cultural events in Sri Lanka for visitors who time their trip correctly.

Getting There

Gangaramaya is located in Slave Island (Colombo 2), walking distance from the Fort and Pettah commercial districts. From Colombo Fort railway station, walk south along Beira Lake (about 15 minutes) or take a tuk-tuk (LKR 150–200). The Slave Island railway station is immediately adjacent to the temple. Most central Colombo hotels are within tuk-tuk distance. The temple is a natural stop on any Colombo city tour.

Best Time to Visit

Gangaramaya is open year-round and is accessible in any weather. The most atmospheric times to visit are early morning (6–8am) when monks perform their morning rituals and the temple is quiet, and at dusk when the buildings are illuminated. Poya (full moon) days see increased devotional activity. February's Navam Perahera is the highlight of the annual calendar.

Tips for Visitors

• Remove shoes and dress respectfully — cover shoulders and knees; sarongs are available for hire at the entrance
• A guide is worthwhile for understanding the significance of the objects in the museum halls — ask at the entrance
• Combine with a walk along Beira Lake and a visit to Viharamahadevi Park for a pleasant Colombo afternoon
• The temple shop sells quality Buddhist artefacts and is a good place to buy religious souvenirs