Diary Entry
We spend a few days in Colombo and are impressed by the city. Many travelers skip a stay in the capital. We didn’t have Colombo on our list either, but since we left Trincomalee earlier than planned, we want to use the time to see a bit of the country’s largest metropolis.
One of the must-see sights in Colombo is the Gangaramaya Temple. I took so many pictures that this temple had to get its own article too.
There is so much to see in this one temple!
The complex is an important sanctuary that represents a mix of modern architecture and cultural heritage. It is in good condition and appears to be regularly renovated.
It is located on Lake Beira and was completed in the late 19th century. The temple’s architecture combines Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian and Chinese influences.
The mix at the entrance: lions, multi-armed goddesses, kings and Boobs. This is how religion is fun!
The temple complex includes several impressive buildings, including a Vihara (temple), a Cetiya (pagoda), a Bodhi tree, a Vihara Mandiraya, a Seema Malaka (assembly hall for monks) and a relic chamber.
Additionally, there is a museum, a library, a residential area, a three-story pirivena (monastery), educational rooms and an alms hall. It only takes a few moments before Sara, Ethi, Maryam, Leon and I have lost sight of each other!
I walk through all these chambers alone with my camera and take my pictures. Here it is a shrine full of colorful figures and a huge Buddha in the middle.
There is a large museum full of Buddha statues, postcards and lots of knick-knacks. The mix is strange.
In the middle of this temple, there is suddenly a silver pyramid, with stairs full of Buddha statues leading up to it. It’s crazy. Meanwhile, Leon is having a great time again. There are numerous museums in the temple where the exhibits are freely displayed.
Small Buddhas, stuffed crocodiles, pictures, relics – nothing is safe from Leon, who wants to touch everything himself.
Buddha meets “Stargate”
Next door is Lake Beira with a beautiful Buddhist temple, the Gangarama Sima Malaka.
We can also visit this temple, but we prefer to look at the building from the outside.
I cannot thank you enough for the wonderful photos you have shared here. Truly extraordinary.
I visited Colombo for work recently, but never had a chance to step out and visit this or any other temple. Such a shame.
Hello Chodpa,
I am very happy about your words. Thank you very much, this encourages me to continue to share my diaries.