Port
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Activity Level
Moderate
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At
$54.95
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 4¼ Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
Sri Lanka has a diverse, multi-religious society. Although Buddhism is the major religion, other religions such as Hinduism, Christianity and Islam are also followed. Today you will visit temples, mosques and churches as the religious history of Colombo unfolds before you. You will marvel at the unique architecture at the respective places of worship and learn about the customs and influences -- this is the holy Colombo experience.
Your journey begins with the Gangarama Buddhist Temple. The temple's architecture demonstrates an eclectic mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture in its several imposing buildings. It is situated not far from the placid waters of Beira Lake on a plot of land that was originally a small monastery.
The Captain's Garden Temple is an ancient Hindu temple with a recorded history of more than 400 years. It has a beautiful colorful roof with hundreds of godly depictions.
View the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, also called the Red Mosque, in the Pettah Bazaar area of Colombo. It dazzles you with its candy-striped red and white brickwork. For sailors of the high seas, this mosque was the longed-for beacon signaling that they had reached the safety of Colombo Harbour. The Islamic community comprises nearly 7% of Sri Lanka's population. The construction of the oldest Protestant Church still functioning in Sri Lanka started in 1749, during the tenure of Governor Julius Valentijn Stein van Gollenesse (1743-51).
The Wolvendaal Church or the Dutch Reformed Church, now renamed the Christian Reformed Church, still bears the initials J.V.S.V.G. and was finally completed in 1757. After an insightful look into the many influences and religions that make Colombo so interesting, you'll make your way back to the pier.
Notes:
Modest attire is required for visiting churches, mosques and temples; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered; shorts are not allowed. You must remove your shoes at one or more location(s). Bring along a pair of thick socks to protect your feet from the hot pavement. The mosque will be viewed from the outside only.