Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most well-known Buddhist temples in Colombo. It’s exceptionally beautiful with the Beira Lake on one side and statues & carvings paving the way inside. The main sanctuary has a huge Buddha statue while the ceilings portray his stories. The temple also has training centers, a museum and much more to admire.
So, take a look at this little pocket guide that’ll help you plan a perfect visit to this blissful attraction in Sri Lanka during your next holiday.
About Gangaramaya Temple
In the late 19th century, Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera set up the Gangaramaya Temple in Sri Lanka’s Colombo. It soon became famous for its unusual blend of architectural styles including Sri Lankan, Indian, Thai and Chinese. It’s not just a place of worship either. Gangaramaya Temple is also a center of learning. The Sri Jinaratana Training Institute has 40 training centers and over 7,000 students attending vocational courses daily. In addition, the Gangaramaya Temple’s Na Sevana’s Community Development Project in Sooriyawewa aims to uplift the community through the cultivation of crops, fruits, vegetables, animal husbandry, and health and wellbeing.
Gangaramaya Temple Location
How To Reach: You can take a taxi from Colombo Airport, which should take around 40 minutes to reach.
Gangaramaya Temple Opening Hours: 6 am to 8 pm
Gangaramaya Temple Entrance Fee: None but donations are welcome
Gangaramaya Temple Dress Code: Like most temples, visitors are required to dress conservatively. This means no sleeveless tops and shorts.
Sri Lanka Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
Book your Sri Lanka trip from TravelTriangle: Inclusive of Hotels, Sightseeing, Transfers, & Meals. Best Prices Guaranteed. Get Customizable Package & Free Guidance From Destination Experts. Book Now!
Top Things To See In Gangaramaya Temple
The Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo is a fusion of modern architecture and cultural essence. The structure and sculptures here are amazing. It is one big attraction but there are certain sights you cannot afford to miss.
1. Museum
One of the most popular attractions of the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo is the museum. It encompasses several halls and has a collection comprising ivory and wood carvings, curios, ola leaf writings, Buddha statues, and even vintage cars! It is definitely one of the top places to see in Sri Lanka, and not just in the temple. If you love to explore historical places you should definitely visit the Museum.
Must Read: 10 Places To Visit In Batticaloa For A True Sri Lankan Experience
2. Relic Chamber
Next up is the Relic Chamber in the Gangaramaya temple in Colombo and it’s filled with – you guessed it! – relics of the Buddha. You don’t have to be a devotee to admire what’s here. Just take in all you see and leave with memories of the sacred.
Suggested Read: Arugam Bay In Sri Lanka: A Guide To The Mesmerizing Beach On The Coast Of Sri Lanka
3. Bodhiya
Bodhiya is a sacred fig tree in the Gangaramaya temple in Colombo and is the place where Buddha gained enlightenment. It’s one of the most sacred things in Gangaramaya Temple so don’t miss it and make sure you capture its beauty on your camera!
Suggested Read: 8 Things To Do In Negombo That A Traveler Must Experience On Their Sri Lankan Vacay
4. Replica Of Borobudur
Central Java is home to the famous Borobudur temple, which was built back in the 8th-9th centuries. Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, meanwhile, has a replica of this iconic place, complete with Buddha figures and stupas. Don’t forget to visit it on your trip.
Suggested Read: Top 6 Honeymoon Places In Colombo For A Romantic Rendezvous
5. Beira Lake And Seema Malakaya
Beira Lake is located just a few hundred meters from the temple so try to take it in during your visit. It’s home to Seema Malakaya, another small temple that’s used for meditation rather than prayer. It’s part of the Gangaramaya Temple and is connected to the mainland via pontoon bridges.
Gangaramaya Temple holds the annual Gangaramaya Nawam Maha Perahera, a procession that was formed in the 1970s. If you’re in Colombo at this time, you definitely have to catch it. Flagbearers, dancers, flautists – there’s a whole lot to see.
Tips For Visiting Gangaramaya Temple
- Carry your camera to capture the beautiful murals and statues after taking permit from the management.
- Take a bottle of sunscreen as the weather ranges from warm to hot.
- If you’re traveling here from somewhere closer than the airport is, take a tuk-tuk and enjoy an adventurous ride.
Further Read: 12 Alluring Things To Do In Nuwara Eliya, The Heart Of Sri Lanka In 2022!
Are you already excited to visit Gangaramaya Temple in Srl Lanka? Don’t wait much, get packed, pick up this handy guide and plan your Sri Lanka holiday right away! Tune into some spirituality and nature’s healing!
Frequently Asked Questions About Gangaramaya Temple
Where is Gangaramaya Temple located?
One of the most popular temples to visit, Gangaramaya Temple is located in the capital city of Sri Lanka, Colombo and attracts numerous devotees and believers all year long.
What is the dress code for Gangaramaya Temple?
When paying a visit to Gangaramaya Temple, it is advised that one wears jeans, trousers, or anything that falls below the knee. It is expected that travelers would cover their legs. Also, avoid wearing anything sleeveless. General rule is to get in a T-shirt or a short that is either short or long sleeved.
Who is this temple dedicated to?
Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most tranquil and peaceful places of worship. This is a Buddhist temple that follows the steps of Lord Buddha himself.
What are the timings of Gangaramaya Temple?
For early-morning people, this temple is nothing less than paradise as the gates of this temple opens at 6 am sharp. The last hour at which one can pay their respects is around 10 pm at night.
Is there any entry fee for Gangaramaya Temple?
Welcoming every kind of traveler, Gangaramaya Temple does not levy any entry charges. However, if one wishes to take a stroll around the museum, it is going to cost them around LKR 100.
What are some things to see in Gangaramaya Temple?
With calmness reeking out of the atmosphere, there are numerous things that one can do in Gangaramaya Temple. Some of these things include strolling along the museum, visiting the Relic Chamber, clicking pictures of famous Bodhiya, soaking in the alluring beauty of Beira Lake, and many more.
What is the architecture of Gangaramaya Temple?
Gangaramaya Temple showcases a fine and unique example of amalgamated architecture and culture of Buddhism. This temple was built during the early 19th century. The temple also offers learning and worship opportunities to the monks.
Looking To Book An International Holiday?
Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.
