Gangaramaya Temple

The central corridor has a Buddha statue and a museum around it which displays numerous colourful Buddha statues. There are a lot of things to see in this magnificent temple that you wouldn’t want to miss. There is an old bodhi, which was first planted as a Bo sapling brought from Maha Bodhiya in Anuradhapura. There are Buddha statues in many positions like sitting, standing, sleeping and meditating, made of metals like bronze and gold. Some of the relics that should not be missed are buddha’s hair, colossal ivory tusks, 14 kg solid ruby Buddha statue, world’s smallest Buddha figurine, ancient manuscripts, old paintings and gifts from devotees.

Devotees are known for gifting luxuriously to the temple. You will find an impressive array of expensive cars like the Rolls Royce, Mercedes etc. which are gifted by the devotees. Apart from the cars, they also gift things like expensive watches, ornaments, and artifacts to the temple. There also resides an elephant that participates in the yearly parade held at Kandy and carries the Buddha tooth relic in the procession.

1) Dress conservatively. For men, long pants and a shirt that covers the shoulders are necessary. The women may wear skirts or pants, but the knees should be covered, and the top shouldn’t be transparent with the shoulders covered.
2) Remove caps and slippers at the entrance.
3) Take permission to carry photography equipment.
4) Don’t turn your back towards the Buddha statue to take photos, as it is considered rude by the locals.
5) Keep your phones silent to maintain the temple's peace and avoid disturbing fellow worshipers.

Seema Malakaya is another temple opposite Gangaramaya temple on the calm waters of Beira Lake. It is a suitable place for meditation and observing some moments in peace. The national museum is also located very near Gangaramaya temple.