A Buddhist temple a short tuk-tuk ride from the beach strip, notable for a large reclining Buddha statue and a separate image house with detailed wall paintings depicting the Buddha's life. It's quieter and less visited than Kandy or Anuradhapura sites, giving a more relaxed look at everyday Sri Lankan Buddhist practice. Monks are often present and happy to answer questions from respectful visitors. It is at Negombo Town & Lellama Fish Market, close to the other main sights. At 30-60 minutes and free entry, it works well slotted between larger visits rather than as a standalone destination.
What It Is
You walk barefoot across warm stone into a hall dominated by a long reclining Buddha statue, surrounded by wall paintings in faded reds and golds depicting scenes from Buddhist teachings.
Why Visit
It's an easy, low-cost way to see a working Buddhist temple without the crowds of Sri Lanka's major pilgrimage sites. It is not the first thing you should see in Negombo, but with two or more days it fills a gap the major sights leave. It pairs naturally with St. Mary's Church Negombo - add it before or after without rearranging your day. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.
More on Negombo
See where it ranks among the things to do in Negombo. The Negombo guide covers transport, costs and when to go.
We plan trips to Negombo and the rest of Sri Lanka. Tell us your dates and we will put a route together. Our routes are on the tours page.
