The temple is an iconic landmark in the capital. Located in the heart of the city, the temple is visited by both locals and foreigners alike. Apart from the main temple, the Gangaramaya comprises of the “Seema Malakaya” which is an assembly hall for monks located on Beira Lake which also functions as a vocational training centre. The temple is top ranking among places to see in Colombo. The temple is over 120 years old. The temple is not too far from most of the cities famous hotels such as Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo which is only a stone’s throw away. The temple hosts one of Colombo’s most colourful and iconic processions – The Gangaramaya Perahera.
The temple also decorates and organises the most colourful Vesak celebration festivities in the city. The area where the temple is located now was a swamp a few years ago and pilgrims had to take a boat on Beira in order to reach Seema Malakaya. However today much development has taken place and it is one of the most visited temples in the city.
The Navam perahera is one of the highlights of the Buddhist calendar in the Sri Lanka. The full moon day that falls in February is a day of colour and celebration for the Gangaramaya temple. The inception of the perahera dates back to 1979 and since it has been an annual event. On the day of the Perahera , elephants are adorned in costumes and carry the sacred relics around the city. There are various dancers, drummers and flutists who also take part in the perahera. Buddhist monks, as well as other traditional dancers, also take part in the parade.
There is also a museum within the premises that displays cultural, religious as well as historically important artefacts such as Buddha statues of various influences, coins, and ancient ola leaves.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+