Joanna James
Panadura is not too far from the commercial capital Colombo and ideal for some laid back coastal fun. The place is home to Buddhist temples, a beautiful beach, restaurants and other attractions.
Panadura is home to a beautiful expanse of sandy shore. The perfect chill out spot the beach is clean and well serviced with cafes and a lifeguard station. This rather wide and long beach is the idyllic setting for soaking up some sun, enjoying a leisurely morning walk or fun play with the kids. Watch out for fishermen bringing in a fresh catch to this beach which is yet to be spoilt by tourism. The beach is framed by swaying palms amongst which you will find Jie Jie Beach by Jetwing and little kiosks selling refreshing drinks and snacks. Make sure to hang around the lifeguard tower as the sea is quite rough.
A historical Buddhist Temple, Rankoth Viharaya is not too far from your Panadura hotel and a good place to explore if you are a culture buff. The place is home to a beautiful 200 year old image house within which you will discover stunning frescoes and 3 ancient Buddha statues. Panadura was one of the first districts to establish Buddhism after British rule ended; reflections of the colonial era are seen in the British style architecture on some points of the temple building. Overall it is one of the most popular temples to visit in the area rewarding visitors with plenty of historical artefacts pertaining to the life of Buddha.
Lunguganga Estate is not too far from Panadura resorts; this huge estate was the home of Geoffrey and Bewis Bawa two of the country's most prominent architects and landscape artists. A visit to the Bewis Bawa Brief Garden will leave you in wonder at the beautifully designed surroundings. Secret alcoves, sculpted hedges and winding paths that take you to a Japanese Garden, water features and artistic statues offer a surreal journey of enchantment. Check with the tour desk of your hotel for tour details and times the place is open.
Most of the top hotels in Panadura organise cycle tours and walking trails across the laidback countryside of Panadura and its coast. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and pounding surf as you explore charming fisher villages, peddle past lotus covered ponds and meet the friendly locals.
This ancient temple is the focal point of any journey along the southern coast. Easily reached from Panadura the Buddhist Temple steeped in history is a popular pilgrimage site. Devotees never drive past the premises without offering alms at the roadside tills while the huge Bo Tree across the road is believed to be the branch of an ancient plant brought from the sacred Sri Maha Bodhiya in India.
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