About six miles from Colombo, the Kelani Raja Maha Vihara derived its sanctity in the Buddhist era 2531, with the third visit of the Buddha to this country. By the time the Portuguese conquered the country and destroyed the temple built on the spot, considerable land had been donated by the kings to the Kelaniya Vihara. In 1767 the Dutch permitted King Kirthi Sri Rajasingha's to develop Kelaniya Vihara. The existing paintings and sculptures, belonging to the 18th century and early 20th century make the temple the finest repository of Buddhist art in the country. The temple itself is a splendid example of Buddhist architecture. Hindu deities and ancient Sinhala designs and patterns are carved into the rock surface. Not to be missed is the shrine of the skeletal Buddha. The image is startling and thought provoking.
The Colombo Museum as it was called at the beginning was established on 1st January 1877. Founder was Sir William Henry Gregory, the British Governor of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) at the time. The Royal Asiatic Society (CB) was instrumental in bringing to the notice of Gregory on his appointment as Governor in 1872 the need for a public museum with much difficulty the approval of the legislative council was obtained within a year. The Architect of the Public Works Department, J.G. Smither was able to prepare the plans for new structure on Italian architectural style. The construction was completed in 1876 and the Museum commenced its functions in the following year. During the period between 1877 and 1999 the Authorities of the museum took various steps to display the cultural and natural heritage of the country for this purpose.
Royal Colombo, built in 1879, is a welcome escape from the hectic city centre. Located in Borella, a short distance from central Colombo, the course is a green oasis accompanied by a clubhouse of colonial charm. Listen to your attentive caddie to avoid the numerous water hazards. Despite being in the centre of Colombo, the course maintains its tranquility, although the occasional commuter train running along the 6th fairway can prove hazardous. Surrounded by residential areas and business establishments, the Royal Colombo Golf Club is a sanctuary situated in the heart of Colombo. The scenic landscape and a glimpse of the rare species of flora and fauna on the course all contribute to this pastoral environment set within its 96 acre former model farm.