Introduction
A unique floating temple on Beira Lake, Seema Malaka offers visitors a tranquil escape in the heart of Colombo. The temple is a great spot for meditation and relaxation, surrounded by water and beautiful statues of the Buddha.
- Recommended Time to Spend: 30-45 minutes
- Cost: Free (donations welcome)
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening for a peaceful experience
Tip: Respect the temple’s dress code – shoulders and knees must be covered.
Colombo Tour Guide: Seema Malaka temple
Seema Malaka, meaning ‘the floating temple’ is a Buddhist temple located in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It is mainly used for meditation and relaxation than traditional worship. Situated in Beira Lake, it was built in the late 19th century and is a part of Gangaramaya Temple.
Seema Malaka temple history
In the 1970s, the original structure of the temple began to sink into the water, necessitating a major reconstruction. In 1976, renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa took on the task of redesigning and rebuilding the temple, creating the iconic structure that stands today. This project was generously funded by businessman S. H. Moosajee and his wife, who dedicated it in memory of their son, Ameer S. Moosajee. The temple’s history and transformation exemplify the harmonious coexistence of Sri Lanka’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.
Design and Architecture
The temple’s architecture is a beautiful mix of modernism and Buddhist design. The central structure of the temple features three pavilions connected by walkways, designed to resemble Buddhist architecture but with a twist.
Jeffrey Bawa’s design of the temple shows openness along the surrounding water with the pavilions floating above the lake, creating peace from the busy city life around.
The temple’s unique blue-tiled roof was formed of gathered spindles and banisters with wooden finishing. It symbolizes Kandyan architecture, the island’s last kingdom.
Statues and Relics
All three pavilions feature Buddha statues seated, each displaying different gestures. The main (central) platform includes a wooden-paneled shelter designed for meditation. On one of the side platforms, you’ll find the Bodhi Tree, which was grown from a branch of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura.
The four corners of the side platform are adorned with small shrines dedicated to the hindu gods Shiva, Vishnu, Kataragama, and Ganesha. A shrine dedicated to Guanyin (an East Asian deity) greets visitors at the entrance to the temple, and another statue of Guanyin is located within the temple complex. Visitors often come for peaceful walks, meditation, and to observe Buddhist rituals here.
Cultural and Tourist Attraction:
Seema Malaka is a meditation space and a venue for religious ceremonies, offering a peaceful retreat for both practitioners and visitors.
The temple is especially used for its meditation sessions and spiritual retreats. Guests can wander through the temple’s grounds, explore the beauty, and engage in various religious rituals and offerings.
Visiting Seema Malaka Temble
This floating temple is a key destination in MaRadha Colombo’s ‘Colombo City Tour’ package, where you can explore the city’s vibrant streets.
Travel the capital city with us, and you will have easy access to Seema Malaka, Gangaramaya Temple, and countless other attractions. Colombo has several beautiful cultural attractions that will increase the quality of your visiting experience. Our tour guide will guide you through your journey.
A visit to Colombo isn’t complete without a peaceful walk through the Seema Malaka Temple on a free afternoon. This temple represents the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Colombo with unique architecture.
Are you ready to explore Colombo’s most unique floating temple? Reach out to us at Hotel MaRadha Colombo in Colombo, Sri Lanka, to arrange your Colombo City Tour.
