Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara , Colombo
About Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara which is located at a distance of nearly 10 kilometres northeast to Colombo is one of the most revered and Buddhist temples of Sri Lanka because it bears the history of nearly 2500 years and of Lord Buddha. The river Kelani that flows near this temple enriches the beauty, serenity and holiness of this place.
The Chronicle of Sri Lanka ‘Mahawansa’ states that this was the last place that Buddha visited in Sri Lanka. After 8 years of Enlightenment, Buddha arrived here on the invitation of king Maniakkhikha along with other 500 monks to preach. Today, a hemispherical stupa stands at the place where Buddha is believed to have preached and hence it becomes a must visit place for travellers. The original temple and the stupa, that housed the gem studded throne and utensils used by Buddha, were built in 5th century BC since when many additions and renovations have taken place and the last contribution was of Helena Wijewardana in 20th century.
The temple is also famous for its paintings of Buddha and his life. An 18 foot stone statue of Avalokiteshwara is installed here. This temple hosts the event Duruthu Maha Perehera procession. With all these to offer the travellers, this place commands an entry.
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Places to Visit near Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
Wolvendaal Church, Colombo, Western Province
8.2 km from Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara - See map
Dating back to the 17th century, this antique church is an interesting Dutch masterpiece. To maintain its olden architecture and design, the...
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Dutch Museum, Colombo, Western Province
9.3 km from Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara - See map
Among busy streets and crowded bazaars lies the Dutch Period Museum, a place that showcases the Dutch history of the island. The museum is old,...
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Colombo Fort, Western Province
9.8 km from Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara - See map
The general impression of forts is that they are majestic and colossal, however, the Colombo Fort is a clear exception. With no major timeworn...
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Talangama Wetland, Western Province
9.9 km from Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara - See map
Riding a few kilometres away from the bustling capital city will lead you to a place nurtured in nature’s lap, Talangama Wetland or Thalangama...
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Viharamahadevi Park, Western Province
10.8 km from Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara - See map
Among the smoke, noise, crowd and stink of the bustling city lies the vast, green Viharamahadevi Park. The landscape of this park is decorated...
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Gangaramaya Temple, Western Province
11 km from Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara - See map
With a mix of cultural heritage and unique architecture, this temple is of prime importance to Buddhism. Situated just by the Beira Lake, the...
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Traditional Puppet Art Museum, Western Province
11 km from Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara - See map
The Traditional Puppet Art Museum is a hidden gem of the longstanding Sri Lankan culture, showcasing their history of puppets, which were a major...
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National Museum of Colombo, Western Province
11.3 km from Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara - See map
Colombo National Museum, Sri Lanka’s largest one, is a fine representation of the nation’s vast history and heritage. The building is a large,...
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Bally's Casino, Colombo, Western Province
11.6 km from Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara - See map
Bally’s Casino is the most well-known, sophisticated, fashionable and highly frequented Casino of Colombo. It is not only the biggest one in...
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Seema Malaka Temple, Western Province
11.8 km from Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara - See map
Seema Malaka Temple is assembly hall for the monks at Gangaramaya Vihara temple used chiefly for meditation. The temple, situated on the waters of...
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Independence Square, Colombo, Western Province
12.1 km from Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara - See map
The Independence Square is a site of historic consequence, natural beauty and architectural significance. Best known for its cleanliness and open...
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St Anthony's Church, Kochchikade, Western Province
12.2 km from Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara - See map
Within the majestic Portugese-style Kochchikade Church lies St. Anthony’s shrine, a central place of worship for Sri Lankans of different...
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