Kelaniya Temple, Colombo (must see)

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is an important Buddhist temple connected to religion, history, and art. Buddhist tradition says that the Buddha visited this place during his third visit to the island in the 6th century BCE. A temple later developed around this belief. Over many centuries, it was repaired and cared for by kings and local worshippers, keeping it active as a place of worship through different periods.

Most of the buildings seen today were built in the late 1800s and the 1900s, after earlier structures were damaged. The main shrine room is well known for wall paintings by the artist Solias Mendis, completed in the mid-20th century. The murals show scenes from the Buddha’s life, Jataka stories, and local history in a clear, easy-to-follow style. Stone steps, moonstones, and guard figures around the buildings reflect traditional Sinhala temple design.

The temple is used every day by devotees. People come to offer flowers, light oil lamps, and spend time in prayer or quiet reflection. The busiest time of year is the Duruthu Perahera in January, which remembers the Buddha’s visit. The festival includes night processions with dancers, drummers, and decorated elephants, drawing large crowds. At other times, the grounds are quieter and easier to explore.

Visitors may enter most areas if they dress modestly and remove their shoes before going into shrine rooms. Photography is usually allowed outside, but it should not be taken inside shrine spaces unless clearly permitted. Taking time to walk slowly and watch daily activities helps visitors see how worship and history continue side by side.