Gangaramaya is the most photographed religious site in Colombo and one of the most visited in Sri Lanka. Founded in the late 19th century beside the Beira Lake, it has grown over the decades into a sprawling complex of temples, a museum-like collection hall, and a library. The collection inside is extraordinary — thousands of donated objects spanning multiple centuries and countries, from priceless Buddha statues to vintage cars, elephant howdahs, and Buddhist artifacts from across Asia and Japan.
The Gangaramaya organises the Navam Perahera in February, one of Colombo's most spectacular events: a two-day procession of elephants, drummers, dancers, and fire-performers that draws hundreds of thousands of people. The temple is open daily and welcoming to visitors; dress respectfully (legs and shoulders covered), remove your shoes at the entrance.