Magnificent Buddhist stupa with a great view over the harbour
- Chaithya Road, Colombo 01
- Open daily 6am-10pm
- +94 112 482 673
A uniquely spiritual experience and it’s never busy. Don’t miss the chance to climb up to the stupa.
Buddhist Beacon
At first glance the Sambodhi Chaithya looks like a strange Meccano giant from outer space, or a rocket poised for take-off. The ‘legs’ of the giant transpire into two interlocking arches which hold up the pagoda, a tribute for the country’s seaman in the 1950s, designed by A.N.S. Kulasinghe, one of Sri Lanka’s best engineers of that era. The high dome is protected by four guardian gods and the inside is beautifully decorated with scenes of life of Lord Buddha.
Picnic with a View!
You’re in for a treat. Climb up the 300 stairs (eleven flights) to the top until you get to the connecting walkway that offers a stunning 360-degree view of the fort and the harbour. The atmosphere is relaxed, the guards are nice to you and navy officers from the mess close by might stop for a chat. Our tip: sneak in a small picnic!