Sambodhi Chaithya.

The Sambodhi Chaithya is a beautiful temple built on top of two impressive intersecting concrete arches. It’s been around since the 1950s and is a massive structure tucked in the first corner of Chaithya road, past the Galle Buck Lighthouse.

It is thought to be built this high, at the Port, so that the symbol of the stupa can be seen by those out at sea.

The stupa, up close and personal.

You can get to the temple by climbing 11 levels of staircases, and the whole thing adds up to a total of about 300 steps to the top.

The area around the structure is very picnic-friendly.

Some kids were on a school trip to the temple when we got there — if you’re tired from the journey up and down the stairs, you may consult the ice-cream lady usually stationed there on hot afternoons.

Young students counted the steps out loud as they went back down the structure, their shoes in hand (you have to take them off before climbing the stairs, out of respect for the temple).

The view of the sea and the Lighthouse from the Sambodhi Chaithya stairway
Pools of water and the shade of trees around the structure provide cool spaces to chill at after a visit to the temple
The view of the harbour from the top – Colombo looks gorgeous from up there

Even though the whole thing had railings on the sides, the kids (and some adults) clung on to the rails all throughout from fear of the height
Detail of the stupa
The view from the top
The bridge from the stair-structure to the temple
The port
The entrance to the temple
Inside the stupa
Detailed Buddhist murals cover the inner walls of the stupa

The Sambodhi Chaithya is a must-visit if you haven’t been – the guards there are very friendly and will let you take pictures, and the Navy officers from the Navy Mess nearby may stop for a chat. Dress conservatively since it’s a temple after all, but Buddhists and non-Buddhists are welcome alike to tour the area and make the great climb to the top.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Highlights.

Latest.

KAMU.

Iftar delights at The Banyan, Heritance Negombo

Iftar delights at The Banyan, Heritance Negombo Written by Fathima Rukaiya, Mad Dogs Bodega, Banyan

Highlights Kamu

Budget-friendly Iftar spots 2024

Written by Fathima Rukaiya, In our previous article, we highlighted some exquisite and upscale Iftar

Highlights Kamu

Iftar Buffet Round Up 2024

Written by Fathima Rukaiya As Ramadan arrives, a warm feeling of reflection and community fills

Highlights Kamu

Discovering Pasta Paradise: The Pasta Factory, Galle Fort

In the historic Galle Fort, The Pasta Factory brings a taste of Italy to Sri

Highlights Kamu

A Home for Desi Dreams – Bombay Nights by Radisson Colombo

As we stepped into the ‘Dine’ in Radisson Colombo, our senses were immediately tantalized by

Highlights Kamu

Steak Bar: A Grand Sunday Brunch at Kingsbury, Colombo

Written by Shamrina C Welcome to the ultimate brunch experience! Nestled in the heart of

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

Trending.

Experience the Elegance and Excitement of RTC Tourism Race Day in Nuwara Eliya

RTC Nuwara Eliya will hold its RTC Tourism Race Day on 30th March 2024 at

Trending

“85th Annual Mount Lavinia 2-Mile Sea Swim” by SLASU held at the Mount Lavinia Hotel Beach

The "85th Annual Mount Lavinia 2-Mile Sea Swim" organized by Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Union

Trending

Sheraton Colombo Hotel celebrates International Women’s Day with empowering insights

Sheraton Colombo Hotel, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, marked International

Trending

Anantara Kalutara Presents an Elevated Gastronomic Journey to Italy

Kalutara, Sri Lanka - March 14, 2024 - Anantara Kalutara Resort is delighted to announce

Trending

List of Party Venues 2024

By Fathima Rukaiya Finding the perfect place to host a party can be a hassle.

Highlights Trending

LCY Unveils Debut ‘LCY for Her’ Collection, Redefining Women’s Polo Wear with Strength, and Sophistication

Thursday, 14, March, 2024, Colombo: LCY, a brand synonymous with manufacturing high-quality men’s polos of

Trending

Yamu Guide.

Steak Bar: A Grand Sunday Brunch at Kingsbury, Colombo

Written by Shamrina C Welcome to the ultimate brunch experience! Nestled in the heart of

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

9 Special Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Him

By Fathima Rukaiya Are you trying to find the perfect way to show your special

Highlights Yamu Guide

9 Special Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Her

Written by Fathima Rukaiya The season of love is upon us once more, and opinions

Highlights Yamu Guide

Romantic Dinner and High Tea date spots for Valentine’s Day  2024

Written by Shamrina C 1. Via Torino Indulge in a fine dining exclusive 3-Course meal

Highlights Yamu Guide

BYOB Bliss: 16 Places to you can Bring Your Own Bottle!

Written by Shamrina C 1. Giovannis Indulge in Italian flavors, grooving music, pet friendly, and

Highlights Yamu Guide

Unveiling Ramada’s Festive Christmas High Tea Extravaganza!

Written by Shamrina C Mark your calendars for the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th of December,

Highlights Yamu Guide