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Temples & religious sites

Karagampitiya Vihara

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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

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Karagampitiya Vihara

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Good to visit alongside

Christ Church, Galkissa

Temples & religious sites

Christ Church, Galkissa

An Anglican church in Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia near Colombo, consecrated in 1843. Four graves in its cemetery are protected as an archaeological monument of Sri Lanka, adding to its historical significance.

0.3 km away

National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka

Zoos & aquariums

National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's largest zoo, located in Colombo. Open since 1936, it houses a wide variety of animals along with an aquarium and a nocturnal animal house, and elephant shows are held regularly.

1.0 km away

St. Lawrence's Church

Temples & religious sites

St. Lawrence's Church

A Roman Catholic church on Galle Road in the Wellawatte area of Colombo, serving as the parish's main church. It's dedicated to St. Lawrence, the patron saint of Sri Lanka and Colombo.

2.5 km away

Balapokuna Raja Maha Vihara

Temples & religious sites

Balapokuna Raja Maha Vihara

A historic Buddhist temple in Pamankada, Colombo, recognized as an archaeological site for its historical significance. Its name means "great royal temple."

2.8 km away

Sri Pushparama Vihara, Ratmalana

Temples & religious sites

Sri Pushparama Vihara, Ratmalana

A historic Buddhist temple in Ratmalana, on the outskirts of Colombo, officially designated as an archaeological site in Sri Lanka. It sits right on the Colombo-Galle main road, making it an easy stop along the way.

3.0 km away

Havelock Town

Shopping & districts

Havelock Town

Just south of central Colombo, Havelock Town is a lively neighborhood blending commercial and residential life. Centered around the large Havelock City complex, it's a great area for a walk and some shopping.

3.4 km away