Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

Overview

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is one of Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist temples, believed to have been visited by the Buddha during his third trip to the island. Located 11 km from central Colombo on the banks of the Kelani River, it draws pilgrims year-round.

Highlights

• Mural Paintings: Stunning wall and ceiling frescoes by Soliyas Mendis depicting the life of the Buddha and Jataka tales.
• Dagoba (Stupa): A gleaming white stupa said to contain relics dating to the 3rd century BC.
• Duruthu Perahera: The annual January pageant with caparisoned elephants, rivaling Kandy's famous procession.

History

The temple's origins are traced to the 3rd century BC; it was damaged by colonial forces, rebuilt in the 18th century, and renovated in the 1940s with the celebrated murals by Soliyas Mendis.

Visitor Tips

• Dress Code: Modest clothing required; shoes removed at the entrance.
• Transport: Reachable by train to Kelaniya station or tuk-tuk from Colombo.
• Duration: 45–90 minutes.