Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
“Ancient sacred shrine blessed by Lord Buddha on the banks of the Kelani River”
About & Heritage
Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is famous for its peerless Sinhalese Buddhist murals painted by master artist Solias Mendis, depicting pivotal moments from the Buddha’s life and the arrival of the sacred tooth relic in Sri Lanka. The temple’s stupa is hollow, built in the shape of a paddy-heap. Every January on the full moon, the temple hosts the magnificent Duruthu Maha Perahera, drawing hundreds of traditional dancers and decorated elephants.
Located 10 km northeast of downtown Colombo along the tranquil Kelani River, this historic temple is revered as one of the three places in Sri Lanka visited by Gautama Buddha over 2,500 years ago.
Key Highlights & Features
Transit & Bus Route Guide
Public transportation stops and bus numbers serving this area
Colombo Fort – Kiribathgoda
Nearest stop: Kelaniya Temple Junction
Pettah – Kelaniya
Nearest stop: Kelaniya Vihara Gate
Nearby Cafes & Street Food
Handpicked Ceylon tea lounges, cafes, and dining spots nearby
Riverview Tea Hut
100mCeylon Ginger Tea & Kokis
Peliyagoda Spice Rest
1.2 kmTraditional Rice & Curry Lunch
Nearby Hotels & Accommodations
Convenient stays from colonial heritage hotels to modern city suites
Pegasus Reef Hotel (Wattala)
Water’s Edge Hotel (Battaramulla)
Cloudinary Photo Showcase
Quick Guide Details
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Connect with the Colombo travel desk for tailored routes, driver contacts, and local recommendations.
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