Sri Ponnambalavaneswaram Kovil
ஸ்ரீ பொன்னம்பலவாணேஸ்வரம்
A Hindu temple to Shiva in the South Indian style, built entirely from granite, with finely carved stonework. It is considered the most exquisite Hindu temple in Colombo.
The temple is located in Kotahena in northern Colombo. It was rebuilt in 1907 by Ponnambalam Ramanathan, a Tamil politician. Its entire structure is carved from granite brought from South India. Stone pillars, gateways and ceilings are covered with deities and decorative patterns, quite unlike the painted Hindu temples commonly seen. Shoes must be removed before entering. Men may need to take off their shirts to enter the inner sanctum, and photographing the deities is not allowed. Admission is free, and drums play during the morning and evening rituals.
Opening hours
Approx. 05:00–12:00, 16:00–20:00
Nearby sights
- St. Anthony's Shrine, Kochchikade
- Wolvendaal Church
- Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque)
- Dutch Period Museum
- Pettah Market
- Colombo Fort
- Old Colombo Lighthouse (Clock Tower)
- Old Dutch Hospital Precinct