https://ten.lk/listings/festivals-events?format=rss&page=1&category_id=97 Ten.lk - Sri Lanka Listings en About Gangaramaya TempleGangaramaya Temple, located at 61 Sri Jinarathana Road, Colombo 00200, is one of the city’s most important Buddhist temples. Founded in the late 19th century by Venerable Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera and expanded under Devundera Sri Jinaratana Nayake Thera, it blends Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architectural styles and stands alongside Beira Lake. Official Temple SiteArchitecture & SpacesThe complex includes a main sanctuary with a large Buddha statue surrounded by intricate murals, a stupa, a Bodhi tree, a relic chamber, and a three-storey preaching hall. The adjacent Seema Malaka is a floating meditation hall designed by Geoffrey Bawa, offering a serene retreat by the lake. Explore on WikipediaMuseum & ArtifactsThe temple’s museum houses a vast collection of Buddhist statues, ancient manuscripts, tiny Buddha figures, Hindu icons, Dutch-era coins, vintage vehicles (including antique Rolls-Royce and Mercedes), and more—offering an eclectic glimpse into culture and history. Highlights from the MuseumCultural & Religious SignificanceThe temple is a key venue for Buddhist observances—daily worship, Poya (full moon) ceremonies, and major festivals such as the annual February Navam Perahera and the Vesak lantern celebrations along Beira Lake. Festival DetailsCommunity & EducationGangaramaya functions as a cultural center, offering educational programs, vocational training, an orphanage, and an elderly care home, all guided by the late Ven. Galboda Gnanissara Thera. Learn About the Chief IncumbentVisitor InformationOpening Hours: Daily 6 AM–10 PMEntry Fee: Foreign visitors LKR 300 (approx. US$2), locals free; small museum fee appliesDress Code: Modest attire—cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes before enteringHow to Get There: A 10–15-minute tuk-tuk ride from Colombo Fort or via Bus 138/101 from Fort to Colombo 02 https://ten.lk/listings/gangaramaya-temple-colombo-s-iconic-buddhist-cultural-landmark 7eabe3a1649ffa2b3ff8c02ebfd5659f Thu, 03 Jul 2025 08:50:30 +0000 Places of Worship