Isipathanaramaya Temple - A very tall building with a lot of decorations on top of it
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Isipathanaramaya Temple

4.6
·197 reviews·Colombo, Sri Lanka

A serene Buddhist temple in Colombo, built in 1916, featuring a towering 39-foot Buddha statue and historical murals.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Isipathanaramaya Temple - A very tall building with a lot of decorations on top of it

Isipathanaramaya Temple

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Buddhist temple in Colombo, built in 1916, featuring a towering 39-foot Buddha statue and historical murals.

4.6
(197 reviews)

"Nice temple with large area in town. Helpful & good place for religious & national activities."

Vertical photo
TIP

👗 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders & knees. It's a sacred Buddhist temple, so respect is key! :pray:

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Grounds

Wander through the temple complex for a truly relaxing and refreshing experience. :lotus_flower:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Buddha Statue

The Grand Buddha Statue

Main shrine

Marvel at the impressive 39-foot-tall Buddha statue, a central and awe-inspiring feature of the temple.

Artistic Murals by Saralis

Artistic Murals by Saralis

Temple walls

Admire the intricate and historical drawings by the famous artist Saralis adorning the temple walls.

Tranquil Temple Grounds

Tranquil Temple Grounds

Throughout the temple complex

Experience a sense of calm and relaxation amidst the serene atmosphere of this sacred Buddhist site.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Attire is Key

Dress modestly when visiting Isipathanaramaya Temple. Cover your shoulders and knees to show respect. Avoid revealing clothing, as this is a sacred site for Buddhist worship and religious activities.

Best Times for Serenity

Visit during early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the midday heat and potential crowds. This allows for a more peaceful and reflective experience at this sacred Buddhist temple.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Cooler temperatures
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@dialoglk
41.1K likes • 272.8K views

👗 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders & knees. It's a sacred Buddhist temple, so respect is key! :pray:

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Grounds

Wander through the temple complex for a truly relaxing and refreshing experience. :lotus_flower:

2024 Scripted Glory for Bamba !! #peteriterugby #bambabrigade #stpeterscollege #peterite #schoolsrugby #dialogschoolsrugby #peters #fyp #schoolboyrugby #fijirugby #joepete #isipathanarugby #royalcollege
@bamba.brigade
27.2K likes • 232.8K views
Rose Oud Cafe 😊 Address - 51/2 , Isipathana Mawatha, Colombo What we ordered Creamy Mushroom Pasta - Rs.2500/- Savory Waffle Chciken - Rs.2050/- Strawberry Cream Puff - Rs.850/- Pink frosting Rose with Nut Doughnut - Rs.850/- Pink Cheese Cake - Rs.900/- Cappuccino- Rs.1600/- #cafesincolombo #pinkthemedcafe #crazypair #coffeeshop #cafesincolombo #srilanka🇱🇰 #crazypairvlogs #velakowsivlogs #foodrev...
@crazy_pair
13K likes • 271K views

📸 Capture the Art

Don't miss the historical drawings by artist Saralis on the temple walls. :camerawithflash:

🙏 Be Respectful

Maintain a quiet demeanor and be mindful of worshippers. :personinlotus_position:

reddit.com

Travelling to Colombo for the first time. Any advice for a tourist?

Tips

from all over the internet

👗 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders & knees. It's a sacred Buddhist temple, so respect is key! :pray:

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Grounds

Wander through the temple complex for a truly relaxing and refreshing experience. :lotus_flower:

📸 Capture the Art

Don't miss the historical drawings by artist Saralis on the temple walls. :camerawithflash:

🙏 Be Respectful

Maintain a quiet demeanor and be mindful of worshippers. :personinlotus_position:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(197 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Isipathanaramaya Temple is consistently praised as a calm and sacred Buddhist site in Colombo, offering a refreshing escape from the city's bustle. Visitors appreciate the impressive 39-foot Buddha statue and the historical murals by artist Saralis, finding the grounds to be a place of peace and religious significance.

"Very nice & clam temple"

Amila Gayani

"Nice Buddhist temple worth visiting in zcolombo."

vinay dwivedi

"Nice temple with large area in town. Helpful & good place for religious & national activities with knowledgeable bkkshus"

Ranjan Perera

What People Like

Calm and serene atmosphere
Impressive Buddha statue
Historical art and murals

What People Dislike

Limited dining options nearby

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Isipathanaramaya Temple is located on Isipathana Mawatha in Colombo. You can easily reach it by taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing apps like Uber or PickMe. Public buses also serve the area, but may require some walking from the nearest stop. TikTok

Yes, while not directly at a bus stop, several bus routes pass near Isipathana Mawatha, making it accessible via public transport with a short walk. Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available for direct access. TikTok

For convenience, a tuk-tuk or taxi is recommended. They are readily available and can take you directly to the temple entrance. Ride-sharing apps are also a popular and reliable option. TikTok

Limited parking may be available, but it's advisable to check upon arrival. Using ride-sharing services or public transport is often more convenient due to potential parking challenges. Reddit

Depending on your starting point, walking might be feasible if you're in the vicinity. However, Colombo can be hot, so consider a short tuk-tuk ride for comfort. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit Isipathanaramaya Temple. Donations are welcome and appreciated to help maintain the temple. Reddit

The temple is typically open daily from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the full experience. Reddit

No, advance booking is not required as there is no admission fee. You can visit anytime during its operating hours. Reddit

The temple is usually open daily. However, it's always a good idea to check for any special event closures, though this is uncommon for regular visiting hours. Reddit

Yes, donations are gratefully accepted and contribute to the upkeep of the temple and its religious activities. Donation boxes are usually available. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Visitors are expected to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops. TikTok

The temple is known for its impressive 39-foot-tall Buddha statue, the historical murals by artist Saralis, and its overall serene and calming atmosphere. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful and avoid intrusive shots, especially during prayer times. Focus on the architecture and art. Instagram

A visit can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you wish to spend admiring the art and soaking in the peaceful ambiance. Reddit

Basic facilities like restrooms might be available. It's advisable to carry your own water, especially during warmer months. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The large Buddha statue, the intricate murals by Saralis, and the peaceful courtyards offer excellent photo opportunities. Capture the architectural details and the serene environment. Instagram

While generally permitted, be mindful and respectful. Avoid flash photography if it might disturb worshippers or ceremonies. Always ask for permission if unsure. Instagram

A smartphone with good low-light capabilities or a DSLR camera will work well. The detailed murals and the grand Buddha statue are best captured with a lens that can handle both wide shots and close-ups. Instagram

Drone photography is generally not permitted at religious sites like temples due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to stick to handheld photography. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the temple's features. Golden hour can be particularly stunning for capturing the atmosphere. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Isipathanaramaya Temple can be a peaceful outing for families. The large Buddha statue is often a point of fascination for children, and the open grounds offer space to move around. Remember to emphasize the importance of quiet behavior and respectful dress to your children to instill good values. Reddit

While there aren't specific child-centric activities, the visual elements like the murals and the sheer scale of the Buddha can be engaging. It's a good opportunity to introduce children to Buddhist culture and art in a calm setting. Pack water and snacks, as dining options are limited within the temple premises. Reddit

🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers

For solo travelers and those seeking spiritual solace, Isipathanaramaya Temple is an ideal destination. Its serene atmosphere provides a perfect environment for meditation, reflection, and quiet contemplation. The temple's history and the artistic murals offer a rich cultural experience to absorb. Reddit

Engage with the peaceful ambiance, observe the devotion of worshippers, and take time to appreciate the intricate artwork. The knowledgeable monks are often approachable for those interested in learning more about Buddhism. It's a place to find inner peace amidst the city's hustle. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistic Legacy of Saralis

Isipathanaramaya Temple is renowned for its captivating murals, largely attributed to the famous Sri Lankan artist George Keyt (often referred to by his artistic name, Saralis). These vibrant and detailed artworks depict various scenes from Buddhist Jataka tales and the life of Buddha, offering a visual narrative that enhances the spiritual experience of visitors. The style is distinct, blending traditional Sri Lankan art with modern influences, making them a significant cultural and artistic treasure. Reddit

Exploring these murals is like stepping into a living storybook. Each panel is meticulously crafted, drawing you into the narratives. The colors, though aged, still hold a certain vibrancy, and the expressions on the figures are remarkably lifelike. It's a testament to Saralis's skill and his contribution to Buddhist art in Sri Lanka. Reddit

Many visitors find the artistic merit of the temple as compelling as its religious significance. It's a place where art and spirituality intertwine beautifully, offering a unique cultural immersion. The temple serves not just as a place of worship but also as a gallery of historical and religious art.

A Haven of Peace in the City

Despite being located in the bustling heart of Colombo, Isipathanaramaya Temple offers a remarkable sense of tranquility. The spacious grounds and the presence of the imposing Buddha statue create an atmosphere of calm that is deeply appreciated by visitors seeking a moment of respite from urban life. Reddit

Many reviewers highlight the relaxing and refreshing feeling they experience upon visiting. It's described as a sacred space that provides a much-needed escape, allowing for quiet contemplation and spiritual reflection. The knowledgeable monks (bikkhus) also contribute to the peaceful and welcoming environment. Reddit

This contrast between the city's energy and the temple's serenity makes Isipathanaramaya a unique destination. It's a place where one can find both cultural enrichment and inner peace, making it a worthwhile stop for any traveler exploring Colombo. Reddit

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