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Serenity Unveiled:
Exploring the Mystical Marvels of Gangaramaya
July 2023
A sanctuary for everyone Thai-inspired appearance, add a touch of elegance and
serenity to the temple’s ambiance.
Gangaramaya Temple encompasses the fundamental
elements commonly found in Buddhist temples There is an iconic replica of Borobudur, magnificent
worldwide, including the Vihara (main shrine), Chetiya structure dating back to 8th – 9th centuries in Central
(stupa), Vihara Mandiraya (image house), Sima Malaka Java, Indonesia. The replica captures the essence of
(assembly hall), Bodhiya (sacred Bo tree), and the relic the original temple, complete with intricately crafted
chamber. Buddha figures and stupas.
Gangaramaya welcomes visitors during the early
hours of the day. It opens its doors with the first rays of
sunlight, allowing people to start their day with a serene
and spiritual experience.
Each nook and corner
Yet, what sets Gangaramaya apart is its captivating of the temple reveals
and distinctive artistic designs and architectural
features. The temple’s aesthetic appeal is truly a masterpiece of
mesmerizing, offering a unique experience to visitors. artistry, evoking a
Each nook and corner of the temple reveals a sense of wonder and
masterpiece of artistry, evoking a sense of wonder admiration. Most importantly,
and admiration. Most importantly, it is a place where
spirituality and aesthetics intertwine, creating an it is a place where spirituality
ambiance that resonates with the hearts of all who visit, and aesthetics intertwine,
irrespective of who they are and what they do. creating an ambiance that
Gangaramaya is a picturesque and famous location resonates with the hearts of all
that offers the perfect backdrop to capture beautiful and who visit, irrespective of who
lasting memories. It is particularly popular for wedding
photography, as couples choose this sacred place to they are and what they do.
begin their new journey together.
Architecture
The architecture of the temple showcases a Among the captivating sights that enthrall every
captivating fusion of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, Burmese visitor is the mesmerizing white Samadhi statue. This
and Chinese influences, creating an eclectic and visually exquisite statue gracefully rests upon a sculptured
stunning blend. stone, flanked by majestic elephant tusks on either side.
Adjacent to the Samadhi statue, there is Ata Visi (28)
Inside the Viharaya (image house) of the temple, a Hall, a sanctuary adorned with an array of 28 Buddha
huge gold-painted Buddha statue captures attention. statues.
Seated in the Padmasana Position. Above the statue, the
story of Lord Buddha is described through paintings.
Numerous other statues and artworks in the Image Seema Malaka
House narrate different aspects of the Buddha’s life. Seema Malaka is a beautiful pavilion located within
As you venture further into the temple, there Gangaramaya. It floats peacefully on Beira Lake,
are rows of Buddha statues gracefully arranged on creating a serene atmosphere. Designed by architect
ascending steps. These statues, with their distinctive Geoffrey Bawa; father of tropical modernism in