The Gangaramaya Temple is one of Colombo’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temples, but for a curious child, it’s closer to an exotic treasure hunt. While the religious heart of the temple is beautiful and traditional, its museum wings are filled with literally thousands of artifacts donated from all over the world.
From towering brass statues to rows of ivory carvings and a surprisingly high-quality collection of vintage Rolls-Royces and Mercedes-Benz cars, there is enough stimuli here to keep any child exploring for at least an hour.
What Kids Love Most
- The Elephant Skulls: Multiple massive, white skulls are usually on display, which is a big hit with children fascinated by animals.
- The Car Collection: A dedicated indoor hall houses dozens of beautifully restored vintage automobiles, something you wouldn’t expect to find in a Buddhist temple!
- The Stupas: Large, colorful stupas and thousands of tiny Buddha statues make the central courtyard feel like a scene from an adventure film.
Parent Tips
As this is an active place of worship, parents should ensure they are wearing clothes that cover their shoulders and knees. They do sometimes provide sarongs at the entrance if you have forgotten. It’s located just a short walk away from Viharamahadevi Park, making it a great cultural stop before or after a more high-energy park visit.
