GANGARAMAYA TEMPLE
Located just 200 meters south of Beira Lake, this monastery stands as a prominent Buddhist temple in the heart of Colombo, seamlessly blending modern architecture with cultural heritage. A significant portion of the temple premises functions as a museum, showcasing an impressive collection of Buddha statues sourced from various corners of Asia. Visitors can marvel at the island's smallest Buddha sculpture, delicately encased in a glass box for closer inspection with a magnifying glass. Additionally, the museum exhibits statues of Hindu deities and offers insights into Sinhalese life in Colombo during the modern era, featuring traditional furniture, Dutch period coins, vintage watches, bejeweled trinkets, and even classic cars like Mercedes and Rolls-Royce.
One of the most striking architectural elements within the temple complex is a stepped pyramid adorned with Buddha statues and miniature stupas on each tier, reminiscent of the iconic Borobudur temple mound in Indonesia. The temple also hosts the annual Navam Perahera, a grand procession held on the full-moon day in February (Navam Poya), attracting visitors from near and far.
At the entrance to the main sanctuary, visitors are greeted by two medium-height golden Buddha statues, standing as guardians amidst intricate wood carvings depicting elephants and swans, showcasing the island's ancient craftsmanship. Inside the sanctuary, a serene ambiance prevails, with soft yellow hues enveloping a massive Buddha statue in meditation pose, flanked by celestial figurines. The ceilings are adorned with vibrant pastel paintings depicting Buddhist narratives, while traditional Sri Lankan art adorns the sanctuary's columns.
Devotees clad in white attire pass through the sanctuary, offering colorful lotuses to the Buddha before proceeding to the courtyard to light oil lamps and burn incense. The courtyard features a distinctive stepped wall adorned with stone statues of the Buddha and stupas, providing a tranquil setting for contemplation.
The temple's architecture is a testament to its eclectic influences, drawing inspiration from Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese design elements. Situated amidst the serene surroundings of Beira Lake, the temple complex encompasses various structures including the main temple, pagoda, Bodhi tree, assembly hall, relic chamber, museum, library, residential halls, educational facilities, and an alms hall, offering visitors a comprehensive spiritual and cultural experience.
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