The Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya is one of the most revered Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka, located just a few kilometers south of Colombo city.
Known for its ancient Bodhi Tree, believed to have grown from a sapling of the sacred Anuradhapura Sri Maha Bodhi, this temple holds deep spiritual and historical importance for Buddhists across the island.
The temple is famous for its calm environment, traditional architecture, and cultural festivals that attract thousands of devotees every year.
Among them, the Bellanwila Perahera (pageant) held annually in August or September is one of the most colorful and spiritual events in Colombo.
Whether you’re a local pilgrim or a foreign traveler, Bellanwila Temple offers a chance to experience peace, devotion, and Sri Lankan Buddhist culture in one beautiful place.
- 🌳 The Bodhi Tree (Sacred Fig Tree): A place of 🧘♀️ quiet meditation and 🙏 prayer.
- 🏛️ Main Temple Shrine: Features beautiful 🎨 murals and 🗿 statues depicting Lord Buddha’s life.
- ⚪ Stupa (Dagoba): Symbol of peace and 💡 enlightenment.
- 🐘 Bellanwila Perahera: 🎊 Annual procession with 🥁 traditional drummers, 💃 dancers, and elephants – a 🌟 must-see if you visit in 📅 August.
- 📍 From Colombo Fort: About ⏱️ 30 minutes by 🚕 taxi or 🛺 tuk-tuk.
- 🚌 By Bus: Take a bus towards Dehiwala and get off at 🛑 Bellanwila Junction.
- 🚂 By Train: Closest station – Dehiwala (then ⏱️ 10 minutes by tuk-tuk).
- 👗 Dress modestly (cover 👕 shoulders and 🦵 knees).
- 🚫 Remove shoes and 🧢 hats before entering the temple .
- 📸 Photography is 🆗 allowed but ❌ avoid taking pictures during prayers.
- 📅 Visit during Bellanwila Perahera season for a 🌟 unique cultural experience.
☀️ Morning Visit Plan
- 6:30 AM – Arrive at 🕉️ Bellanwila Temple for morning chanting 🙏
- 7:30 AM – 🌸 Offer flowers at the 🌳 Bodhi Tree and explore the temple grounds 🗺️
- 8:30 AM – 🥐 Breakfast at a ☕ local café in Dehiwala or Mount Lavinia
- 9:30 AM – Continue your 🏙️ Colombo city tour (Gangaramaya, 💧 Beira Lake or 🏞️ Galle Face Green)
