Temples & religious sites
Karagampitiya Vihara
Karagampitiya Vihara
This is a historic Buddhist temple located in Dehiwala, south of Colombo. It is officially designated as an archaeological site of Sri Lanka. Travelers visit this site to see its ancient religious architecture and historical significance within the Buddhist tradition.
Getting There
The temple is situated along the Colombo-Galle road. From Colombo city centre, you can reach the site via taxi, tuk-tuk, or public bus heading south. Depending on traffic conditions, the journey typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Visit Duration
Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to walk through the grounds and observe the archaeological features of the temple.
When to Visit
Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat. As a functioning religious site, it can become crowded during Buddhist holidays and weekends. Visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to respect the local customs.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its location on a main thoroughfare, the temple is convenient to combine with other nearby sites:
- Christ Church, Galkissa: 0.3km
- National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka: 1km
- St. Lawrence's Church: 2.5km
- Balapokuna Raja Maha Vihara: 2.8km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors