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Gangaramaya Temple is not only one of the most beautiful but also one of the most iconic Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. It is more than a century since this temple was constructed; however even today, the temple doesn’t stop to surprise tourists and devotees. The pathways and doors that lead into the main sanctum sanctorum contain intricately carved sculptures that are simply breath-taking.
Highlights: The ceilings and walls contain pictures and miniature paintings that explain stories from Buddhism religion. In the main sanctorum, a huge Buddha statue exudes a brilliant sense of calmness in the devotees. Built in a mix of various architectural styles including India, Burmese, Thai and Chinese, this temple also houses a museum.
Location: The temple is located right on the Jinaratana Road in the heart of Colombo city.
Timings: The temple is open from 5.30AM to 10PM.
Price: Entry fee is LKR200 per adult.
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Highlights: The ceilings and walls contain pictures and miniature paintings that explain stories from Buddhism religion. In the main sanctorum, a huge Buddha statue exudes a brilliant sense of calmness in the devotees. Built in a mix of various architectural styles including India, Burmese, Thai and Chinese, this temple also houses a museum.
Location: The temple is located right on the Jinaratana Road in the heart of Colombo city.
Timings: The temple is open from 5.30AM to 10PM.
Price: Entry fee is LKR200 per adult.
Galle face green, a mesmerizing destination with a magnificent coast, it is one of the most admired grounds in the world. Found in Colombo, the Galle face green park is spread across an enormous area of more than 12 acres.
Running alongside the picturesque costs, the park is celebrated among various tourists as an extraordinary spot to relish upon a number of activities including gazing at the mesmerizing sunset, enjoying delicious street food, picnics, taking a tour of the ancient Galle Fort, kite flying, volleyball, and many more adventures.
The origin story of this enigmatic urban park goes way back to the 18th century. It was Sir Henry Ward, Governor of the British Ceylon who had first proposed the notion of constructing this park. The park is now a go to spot for tens of hundreds of localities and international tourists for various recreational activities.
From delicious delicacies of Srilanka to multitudes of beach adventures, visitors are found here having a time of their lives. What makes the place even more special is it's fun ambiance that allows even the little ones to open their wings and fly.
In other words, it doesn't matter if you are a sports fanatic looking to indulge in some thrills or a food fanatic craving for some flavorful munchies, you will find everything here at the Galle face green. Additionally, some of the most prominent events including hosting the largest artificial Christmas Tree in the world during Christmas are held on this ground.
Running alongside the picturesque costs, the park is celebrated among various tourists as an extraordinary spot to relish upon a number of activities including gazing at the mesmerizing sunset, enjoying delicious street food, picnics, taking a tour of the ancient Galle Fort, kite flying, volleyball, and many more adventures.
The origin story of this enigmatic urban park goes way back to the 18th century. It was Sir Henry Ward, Governor of the British Ceylon who had first proposed the notion of constructing this park. The park is now a go to spot for tens of hundreds of localities and international tourists for various recreational activities.
From delicious delicacies of Srilanka to multitudes of beach adventures, visitors are found here having a time of their lives. What makes the place even more special is it's fun ambiance that allows even the little ones to open their wings and fly.
In other words, it doesn't matter if you are a sports fanatic looking to indulge in some thrills or a food fanatic craving for some flavorful munchies, you will find everything here at the Galle face green. Additionally, some of the most prominent events including hosting the largest artificial Christmas Tree in the world during Christmas are held on this ground.
All in all, a fun place to delight upon the beautiful landscape, indulge in some adventures with friends and family and savoring a few delicious street foods, Galle face green can quite simply be your next weekend destination.
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In Colombo’s heart, Viharamahadevi Park is home to a spectacular display of green space and recreational environment. The locals as well as tourists, are attracted to the park for its clean, bright and cheerful ambience. Whether you are out with your friends and family or with your spouse, Viharamahadevi Park is a perfect leisure space for you.
People are often found basking under the sun, enjoying picnics and appreciating the light breeze. The Park boasts of a well maintained and alluring landscape. Every corner of the park is perfect for photographs. Spring season, showers the garden with colourful, fragrant blossoms.
Your eyes will find pleasure in the tall palms canopying the walkways, soft green grass spread across the area and beautiful fountains conspiring with the sun to create charming rainbows. Sri Lanka’s Buddhist faith is marked by the presence of a huge gold-toned, brass, Buddha statue, facing the Colombo Town Hall, which is surrounded by fountains and lotus ponds.
The Cenotaph War Memorial is set up in the park premises to honour the martyrs of WWI and WWII. A popular spot among tourists is the lake where visitors can have a boat ride and experience the wobbly suspension bridge. If children accompany you, take them to the play area for a fun time or give them a pony ride of the park.
The park’s mini aquarium has a display of local fish, turtles and lobsters. Several food stalls selling cotton candy, ice cream and local snacks are set up all across the park. At night, the park presents a dreamy aura with lit up pathways, fountains and buildings. Viharamahadevi Park is a central location for several city events like Vesak Poya, Navam Perahera etc. During this time the city gathers for a celebration here.
People are often found basking under the sun, enjoying picnics and appreciating the light breeze. The Park boasts of a well maintained and alluring landscape. Every corner of the park is perfect for photographs. Spring season, showers the garden with colourful, fragrant blossoms.
Your eyes will find pleasure in the tall palms canopying the walkways, soft green grass spread across the area and beautiful fountains conspiring with the sun to create charming rainbows. Sri Lanka’s Buddhist faith is marked by the presence of a huge gold-toned, brass, Buddha statue, facing the Colombo Town Hall, which is surrounded by fountains and lotus ponds.
The Cenotaph War Memorial is set up in the park premises to honour the martyrs of WWI and WWII. A popular spot among tourists is the lake where visitors can have a boat ride and experience the wobbly suspension bridge. If children accompany you, take them to the play area for a fun time or give them a pony ride of the park.
The park’s mini aquarium has a display of local fish, turtles and lobsters. Several food stalls selling cotton candy, ice cream and local snacks are set up all across the park. At night, the park presents a dreamy aura with lit up pathways, fountains and buildings. Viharamahadevi Park is a central location for several city events like Vesak Poya, Navam Perahera etc. During this time the city gathers for a celebration here.
Independence Memorial Hall in Colombo, as the name indicates, was constructed to commemorate the occasion of Sri Lankan Independence from British Rule. The construction of this memorial was completed during 1953.
Highlights: When you come here, you ought to visit the Independence Memorial Museum as well, which honours the people who fought for Sri Lankan Independence. Currently, this hall is the venue where Independence Day celebrations and other national events are being held. Prior to the construction of the Sri Lankan Parliament, this memorial Hall served as the ceremonial assembly as well. This place currently caters to the needs of fitness enthusiasts as the open spaces here are used for jogging, cycling, public gym, aerobic sessions and other relevant activities.
Location: The hall is located in Cinnamon Gardens and was formerly known as Torrington Square.
Timings: This hall is open all through the year.
Price: Entry into the hall is free of cost.
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Highlights: When you come here, you ought to visit the Independence Memorial Museum as well, which honours the people who fought for Sri Lankan Independence. Currently, this hall is the venue where Independence Day celebrations and other national events are being held. Prior to the construction of the Sri Lankan Parliament, this memorial Hall served as the ceremonial assembly as well. This place currently caters to the needs of fitness enthusiasts as the open spaces here are used for jogging, cycling, public gym, aerobic sessions and other relevant activities.
Location: The hall is located in Cinnamon Gardens and was formerly known as Torrington Square.
Timings: This hall is open all through the year.
Price: Entry into the hall is free of cost.
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The largest museum in Sri Lanka, the National Museum of Colombo was established in January 1877 by Sir William Henry Gregory, the then British Governor of Ceylon (Sri Lanka). Currently maintained by the Department of National Museum of the central government, the museum is home to a lot of important collections, including the crown and throne of the Kandyan monarchs.
Housed in a two-storied building, the museum has a big, well-maintained, lush green lawn right in front that is shaded by mighty banyan trees, which adds to the beauty of the place. As you enter the museum, you shall also find a fourth-century Buddha smiling at you in the lobby. Going forward, you will be mesmerized to find the collections in the museum.
The galleries are as old as 1877, and you shall find all sorts of ancient art, carvings, and statues from Sri Lanka’s past along with a collection of antique demon masks. You can also find guns, swords, and other things from the colonial times. If you love art, you are totally in for a treat as the gallery also has in display 19th-century reproductions of English paintings of Sri Lanka.
On display are the royal throne made for King Wimaladharmasuriya II in 1693, the 9th-century bronze Bodhisattva Sandals, and much more. And that is not all. There are agricultural displays and many more things that are sure to grab your attention and leave a mark in your memories.
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Housed in a two-storied building, the museum has a big, well-maintained, lush green lawn right in front that is shaded by mighty banyan trees, which adds to the beauty of the place. As you enter the museum, you shall also find a fourth-century Buddha smiling at you in the lobby. Going forward, you will be mesmerized to find the collections in the museum.
The galleries are as old as 1877, and you shall find all sorts of ancient art, carvings, and statues from Sri Lanka’s past along with a collection of antique demon masks. You can also find guns, swords, and other things from the colonial times. If you love art, you are totally in for a treat as the gallery also has in display 19th-century reproductions of English paintings of Sri Lanka.
On display are the royal throne made for King Wimaladharmasuriya II in 1693, the 9th-century bronze Bodhisattva Sandals, and much more. And that is not all. There are agricultural displays and many more things that are sure to grab your attention and leave a mark in your memories.
The tallest skyscraper of Sri Lanka- Colombo Lotus tower is also known as “Nelum Kuluna” in Sinhala. Colombo lotus tower is one of the most famous tourist sites in the town of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Standing at a height of 356 meters this tower is the tallest tower in South Asia, 11th tallest tower in Asia and 19th tallest tower in the world. It has become one of the major tourist attractions in Sri Lanka and popular among tourists.
If you plan on visiting the country then this tower is a must-visit. It basically serves as a transmission tower for tv and radio. Besides being a transmission and communicating tower it also serves various leisure activities. There are banquet halls, shopping malls, hotels with suites, restaurants, museums, auditoriums and much more for the tourist to explore in the tower. There is a revolving restaurant at the top which provides a scenic view of the city. It completes one rotation every 90 minutes. This tower is one of the biggest highlights of Colombo and due to its enormous length, it can be seen from as far as 10kms from the main site. Approximately 50 television and radio broadcasters can be accommodated in the tower, along with 20 telecommunication providers.
Lotus tower can attract more than thousands of tourists every day. It is open 24 hours and 365 days of the year for the tourists. On special festivals such as Pongal, Diwali, Eid, Christmas and many more the interiors of the tower are decorated accordingly. This tower is surely a gem in the busy city of Colombo and must not be missed if you are planning to tour this beautiful city.
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Dehiwala Zoo
Established in the year 1936, Dehiwala Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Asia. It is also believed that the open zoo concept was introduced by this particular zoo which was further taken ahead by various others. Basically known as the Dehiwala Zoo, the real name of the zoo is the National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka.
The place is a flourishing landscape that is housing over 2,500 splendid animals, birds, butterflies, reptiles, amphibians and much more. The distinct species does not limit to the ones found in Sri Lanka but there are animals from various other countries too. Not only the fauna, but the tropical flora of the zoo is also renowned for its diversity among its visitors.
The visitors can experience the variety of the species kept in the zoo along with close interaction with the various harmless birds and mammals. They also get to witness the lifecycle of various animals and insects along with the breeding and symbolic patterns of butterflies and fish. Also, the two of the most popular activities of the zoo, elephant dance & show and the other being the night safari is a must-to-do.
The soothing green flora and dense wood patches in the zoo make it even more appealing to the tourists. Also, one can unwind themselves in the butterfly garden where they could witness the colorful myriad of butterflies fluttering over their heads. You must take help from the zoo map in order to not miss any part of the sprawling zoo.
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Beira Lake
One of the most renowned landmarks in Sri Lanka, Beira Lake has been existing in the country since the sixteenth century. In the present days, the waters of the lake clearly reflects everything aligning it. You can see lush green and dense trees eding the lake as well as getting fed by it.
Offering spectacular views, high rising buildings stand crystal clear on the horizon to give the lake a dimension. Everything in and around the lake sums up to become a eye-candy masterpiece of Colombo. It offers a full package of fool-proof fun which can cover the areas of adventure, pilgrimage, picnic, boat ride and ample serene time with yourself.
It is a place which welcomes people of every age with a warm heart. Children can come here in the excitement of having a family picnic whereas teens can get jolly with the thought of capturing a number of pictures. Adults can also enjoy some alone time during the famous boat ride, however the alderlies will not miss the nearby Budhha temple.
Offering spectacular views, high rising buildings stand crystal clear on the horizon to give the lake a dimension. Everything in and around the lake sums up to become a eye-candy masterpiece of Colombo. It offers a full package of fool-proof fun which can cover the areas of adventure, pilgrimage, picnic, boat ride and ample serene time with yourself.
It is a place which welcomes people of every age with a warm heart. Children can come here in the excitement of having a family picnic whereas teens can get jolly with the thought of capturing a number of pictures. Adults can also enjoy some alone time during the famous boat ride, however the alderlies will not miss the nearby Budhha temple.
Spread over an area of 160 acres, the lake is a huge water body which used to be as huge as spreading over 410 hectares. Portuguses constructed this for the defense of their people and for the very same reason a lot of crocodiles used to live in it.
Don’t worry! Now there are no crocodiles but several other species of flora and fauna. You can easily spot egrets, storks, cormorants, pelicans, monitor lizards, and a variety of fish in and around the lake. Along with that there are several places inside the lake premises which you would be interested in visiting.
Also, the lake is surrounded with various important attractions of Colombo which are must to be explored by tourists from foreign places and locals alike. You can visit the lake anytime between 07:00 am to 06:00 pm and cover all the places in its proximity.
Don’t worry! Now there are no crocodiles but several other species of flora and fauna. You can easily spot egrets, storks, cormorants, pelicans, monitor lizards, and a variety of fish in and around the lake. Along with that there are several places inside the lake premises which you would be interested in visiting.
Also, the lake is surrounded with various important attractions of Colombo which are must to be explored by tourists from foreign places and locals alike. You can visit the lake anytime between 07:00 am to 06:00 pm and cover all the places in its proximity.
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Also known as the Kelaniya Temple, Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is a Buddhist temple which is situated seven miles from Colombo. This temple is well known for its magnificent sculptor’s art. Kelaniya Temple was built on the bank Kelaniya River which is believed to be one of the most sacred sites in Sri Lanka.
This temple was built in the era prior to the chronologically recorded history of Sir Lanka (since 543 B.C). The ancient temple was destroyed by a lot of invaders but was reconstructed again.
Highlights: The best feature of the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is its amazing architecture which has grabbed the attention of lot of tourist around the world. There is a vaulted grill that opens upto the lower patio of the temple yard. The lower patios lead four sets of flights in four directions to the Upper patio where you can see the image of Hose, Dagaba and the Bo Tree (Peepal tree) with other buildings.
Location: The temple is located at Kelaniya, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Price: The entry is free of cost.
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This temple was built in the era prior to the chronologically recorded history of Sir Lanka (since 543 B.C). The ancient temple was destroyed by a lot of invaders but was reconstructed again.
Highlights: The best feature of the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is its amazing architecture which has grabbed the attention of lot of tourist around the world. There is a vaulted grill that opens upto the lower patio of the temple yard. The lower patios lead four sets of flights in four directions to the Upper patio where you can see the image of Hose, Dagaba and the Bo Tree (Peepal tree) with other buildings.
Location: The temple is located at Kelaniya, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Price: The entry is free of cost.
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St. Lucia Cathedral
Located in Kotahena in the northeastern part of Colombo, this cathedral is the Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Colombo in Sri Lanka. It is the oldest Parish church in Sri Lanka and is named after saint martyr St. Lucia. The cathedral was built in 1760 and flaunts the beautiful Gothic style of architecture.
The cathedral has seven statues, beautiful stained glass windows, intricate wooden carvings on the doors and windows, four bells, and the famous bell, 'Anthony Thomas'. If you are looking for picturesque Places to visit in Colombo With family, then the mesmerizing interiors and exteriors of this cathedral will never disappoint you.
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The cathedral has seven statues, beautiful stained glass windows, intricate wooden carvings on the doors and windows, four bells, and the famous bell, 'Anthony Thomas'. If you are looking for picturesque Places to visit in Colombo With family, then the mesmerizing interiors and exteriors of this cathedral will never disappoint you.
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The Melaka Straits Mosque, also known as Masjid Selat Melaka, is one of the most beautiful and noteworthy mosques in Malaysia. Built on the man-made Malacca Island (locally called as Pulau Melaka), the mosque overlooks the Malacca Strait, one of the longest and busiest straits in the world.
The mosque has been open to the public since 24 November 2006, and the opening ceremony was performed by Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong or the Supreme Head of Malaysia. It took around MYR10 million to build this magnificent mosque.
Located on the southern shore of the 40-hectare man-made island, Melaka Straits Mosque is a true testament to Malay and Middle Eastern craftsmanship. Though the overall structure bears a modern Islamic design, the main dome has a more Middle Eastern vibe.
The façade is adorned by stained glass windows that feature traditional Islamic motifs, a brilliant shade of gold colors the dome, and the unusual minaret resembles a lighthouse. The mosque is built on stilts, and during high tide, when the water level is just right, it looks as though the mosque is floating on the ocean!
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Old Parliament Building
Housing the Presidential Secretariat of Sri Lanka, this historical building is located within the Colombo Fort area. The building is built in the neo-baroque style of architecture and is one of the historical Places to visit in Colombo with family.
The building is surrounded by lush gardens and houses several bronze statues of the eminent statesmen of Sri Lanka. The building is a high-security zone and is continuously patrolled by armed forces. Even though the public is not allowed to enter the building, the historical significance and grandeur of this building can be felt even from a distance.
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The building is surrounded by lush gardens and houses several bronze statues of the eminent statesmen of Sri Lanka. The building is a high-security zone and is continuously patrolled by armed forces. Even though the public is not allowed to enter the building, the historical significance and grandeur of this building can be felt even from a distance.
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Panadura Beach
One of the lesser-known; yet, pristine Places to visit in Colombo with family that is beautiful and peaceful, Panadura Beach is a long stretch of golden sanded beach. It is about 27 km away from Colombo and remains calm; away from the bustling tourist crowd.
Couples and families can enjoy lots of private time here walking along the shore, playing sand games, or just watching the waves rumbling across the shoreline. The restaurants around the beach serve delicious seafood like fish, shrimps, and lobsters that are freshly caught and cooked with spices to perfection.
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Couples and families can enjoy lots of private time here walking along the shore, playing sand games, or just watching the waves rumbling across the shoreline. The restaurants around the beach serve delicious seafood like fish, shrimps, and lobsters that are freshly caught and cooked with spices to perfection.
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Pettah Floating Market
Located on Bastian Mawatha in Pettah, a neighborhood in Colombo, this floating market is open on all days from Monday to Saturday from 8.00 AM - 10.30 Pm. The market has about 92 stalls with many of them established on boats.
The stalls here sell fashion apparel like shoes and clothing, street, electronics, and exotic native fruits. If you love local shopping or would like to get an insight into the daily lives of the native people of Colombo, then it is one of the best Places to visit in Colombo With family.
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The stalls here sell fashion apparel like shoes and clothing, street, electronics, and exotic native fruits. If you love local shopping or would like to get an insight into the daily lives of the native people of Colombo, then it is one of the best Places to visit in Colombo With family.
During the period between 1656 and 1796, Dutch rulers ruled over Sri Lanka. The Dutch Museum which tourists get to watch today was once the official residing place of Thomas Van Rhee, the former Dutch Governor of Sri Lanka.
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Location: The place is located at Prince Street in the city
Highlights: The museum contains two floors and it houses around 3000 personal collections of Dutch rulers who reigned over the place. This place was converted into a public museum during 1977, thanks to the able support rendered by the Government of Netherlands.
Timings: The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from Tuesday to Saturday.
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Location: The place is located at Prince Street in the city
Highlights: The museum contains two floors and it houses around 3000 personal collections of Dutch rulers who reigned over the place. This place was converted into a public museum during 1977, thanks to the able support rendered by the Government of Netherlands.
Timings: The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from Tuesday to Saturday.
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Sri Ponnambala Koneswaram Kovil
Kovil in Tamil means "Temple" and the revered Sri Ponnambala Koneswaram Kovil is dedicated to Hindu God Shiva. The temple was built by Ponnambalam Mudaliyar and portrays Dravidian architecture. The temple has a tall gopuram, beautiful arches, pillars, and doors that are intricately carved with designs of swans, peacocks, gods, and goddesses.
The main deity sits in the Garbhagriha and other deities are positioned around the main deity. The temple is lit by oil lamps and the religious aura at the temples makes it one of the most sacred places to see in Colombo with family.
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The main deity sits in the Garbhagriha and other deities are positioned around the main deity. The temple is lit by oil lamps and the religious aura at the temples makes it one of the most sacred places to see in Colombo with family.
This is probably the only place in Colombo that provides shelter to at least 50 different species of birds (both local and migratory).
Highlights: A large number of water monitors, butterflies, insects and other birds tend to catch your attention as you walk through the muddy paths of the sanctuary. The biodiversity of this place is highly commendable, as you cannot help but feel awe-struck at the diverse species of birds here. As the place is replete with mosquitoes, you need to be fully covered while visiting the park.
Location: The sanctuary is located at Boralesgamuwa in Colombo.
Timings: The sanctuary is open all through the day; however early mornings and evenings are best to visit migratory birds.
Best Season to Visit: You must visit this place during the months between December and January, as this is the peak season for migratory birds to seek protection here.
Price: Entry to the place is free of cost.
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Highlights: A large number of water monitors, butterflies, insects and other birds tend to catch your attention as you walk through the muddy paths of the sanctuary. The biodiversity of this place is highly commendable, as you cannot help but feel awe-struck at the diverse species of birds here. As the place is replete with mosquitoes, you need to be fully covered while visiting the park.
Location: The sanctuary is located at Boralesgamuwa in Colombo.
Timings: The sanctuary is open all through the day; however early mornings and evenings are best to visit migratory birds.
Best Season to Visit: You must visit this place during the months between December and January, as this is the peak season for migratory birds to seek protection here.
Price: Entry to the place is free of cost.
18
Anjaneyar Temple
Also known as Sri Panchamuga Anjaneyar Temple, this temple is located in Dehiwala at about 9 km away from Colombo. Panchamuga means "five-faced" and this is the only temple in Sri Lanka that portrays Hanuman with five faces.
This is the only temple in the world to have a chariot for Anjaneyar and there is an idol for Jain God, Lord Parshwanath here. Visitors to this temple are advised to dress appropriately covering their shoulders and knees. With so much to explore, this temple is one of the most sacred places to see in Colombo with family.
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This is the only temple in the world to have a chariot for Anjaneyar and there is an idol for Jain God, Lord Parshwanath here. Visitors to this temple are advised to dress appropriately covering their shoulders and knees. With so much to explore, this temple is one of the most sacred places to see in Colombo with family.
