10 Enchanting Temples in Colombo You Need to Visit – Immerse in Mesmerising Sri Lankan Culture

Situated near Beira Lake in Colombo, Gangaramaya Temple is a fusion of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture. This temple complex is a visual delight, filled with intricately carved statues, paintings, and relics. The annual Perahera festival held in February is a spectacle not to be missed, showcasing traditional dances, adorned elephants, and colourful processions. Also, within the close vicinity is an array of 3-star hotels in Colombo that allow you to get to the temple within minutes.

Located just 30 minutes from Cinnamon Red Colombo, Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is believed to be a site visited by Buddha himself. This ancient temple, located just outside Colombo, is renowned for its exceptional murals depicting important events in the life of Buddha. The Duruthu Perahera festival in January attracts thousands, displaying a grand parade filled with vibrantly decorated elephants, dancers, and drummers.

Floating serenely on Beira Lake, Seema Malaka is part of Gangaramaya Temple and offers an oasis of calm in the bustling city. Designed by the renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, its simplistic yet elegant wooden structures are something to behold. Surrounded by water, it's an ideal spot for meditation or simply admiring the lotus blooms.

In the heart of Colombo lies Isipathanaramaya Temple, famous for its intricate murals and artwork. The paintings on the walls tell stories from Buddhist scriptures, while the countless statues add to their aesthetic appeal. A visit here provides an insight into the artistic heritage of Sri Lanka.

Vajiraramaya Temple stands as a beacon of Theravada Buddhism. Established in the early 20th century, it's not only a religious site but also a centre for Buddhist education. The temple's tranquil garden and the library, rich in Pali texts, make it a sought-after destination for scholars and curious visitors alike.

This Hindu temple, crafted from granite, is a tribute to Lord Shiva. Sri Ponnambalam Vanesar Kovil's stark yet magnificent architecture captures the essence of Hindu spirituality. The sacred rituals performed here, accompanied by traditional music and chants, create an atmosphere that transports visitors to a different world.

As one of the oldest Hindu temples in Colombo, Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil is dedicated to Shiva and Ganesha. The intricately carved pillars and vibrant paintings narrate epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata. You can participate in the rituals or simply admire the craftsmanship; this temple is a treat to the senses.

This temple is famous for its sacred Bodhi tree, believed to be one of the thirty-two saplings of the sacred tree in India under which Buddha attained enlightenment. The annual Esala festival here is an extravagant event, drawing devotees and tourists alike to experience Sri Lankan religious fervour.

Dedicated to the Hindu war god Murugan, New Kathiresan Kovil is a riot of colour. Its majestic gopuram, adorned with various Hindu deities, welcomes visitors into a world filled with devotion and spirituality. The annual Ther festival is a must-see, with its chariot procession and energetic celebrations.

Nestled within the bustling streets of Colombo, Kathiresan Pillayar Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god revered for wisdom and success. The temple stands as an emblem of the Tamil Hindu community in Sri Lanka. With its vibrant gopuram styled with intricate sculptures, it is a haven for devotees and a spectacle for visitors. The annual Vinayaka Chaturthi festival, celebrating Lord Ganesha's birth, is an event filled with lively music, dance, and traditional offerings.