Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, Sri Lanka

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, about 11 km from central Colombo, is one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. Buddhist tradition holds that the Buddha visited Kelaniya on his third journey to the island. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, and its present image house dates largely from the 20th century.

What to see

• The murals — superb paintings by the artist Solias Mendis show the life of the Buddha and scenes from Sri Lankan history.
• The image house — carved walls and rows of guardian elephants and figures.
• The dagoba and Bodhi tree — where worshippers in white make offerings, especially on full-moon days.
• The Vibhishana shrine — dedicated to Ravana's brother, who in the Ramayana sided with Rama. Tradition says he was crowned king here, which is why Kelaniya is included on many Ramayana tours.

Festivals

The Duruthu Perahera in January brings dancers, drummers and elephants to the temple. Full-moon (poya) days are busy and very atmospheric. See our festivals calendar.

Visiting tips

• Wear white or light colours if you can, and cover your shoulders and knees.
• Shoes and hats come off at the entrance. The sand and stone get very hot, so go early or carry socks.
• Allow 1 to 1.5 hours.
• Foreign visitors may be asked for a small ticket or donation.
• Photography is usually allowed outside, but ask before photographing worshippers, and never pose with your back to a Buddha statue.

Getting there

The temple is 20 to 45 minutes from central Colombo by tuk-tuk or car, depending on traffic. It's close to the Colombo to Katunayake Expressway, so you can also stop on the way to or from the airport.