Historic and Simplistic Kelaniya
by Jetwing · Published · Updated
The illustrious Kelani River till date stands an iconic source to the inhabitants surrounding it. The river cascades from the peaks of the Sri Pada Mountain range (Adam’s Peak) and flows through the hill country and finally flows into the ocean at Colombo.
The joy of simplistic entertainment is immeasurable; and such is a splashing jump into the river for a refreshing swim or dive. The cooling water gives you that wondrous experience of a refreshing river bath.
This is a common routine amongst locals, who make a short trip every morning and evening up to the river along narrow paths surrounded by evergreen trees and tall grass. This surrounding takes you to that distant getaway from the tedious city buzz, where you find yourself indulging amid nature forgetting everything that haunts the everyday mind.
The greenery by the banks of the river is a diversity that creates a green palette ranging from various shades and tones to create a wondrous contrast from the endless blue skies and the brownish blue river.
One of the best sights is the rising of the sun, which bursts into orange rays striking through the clouds to announce the reign of a new morning. In that colorful moment it is amazing to see all of life awake, birds soaring, children swimming and women washing clothes, it is definitely a heartwarming sight. Seated on a rock you can see the slow moving worlds around, children walking to school after their baths, men off to work and ladies gossiping and engaging in their daily routines.
A visit to the Kelani temple in the evening is worth the while. The Kelani Temple is a majestic sight, a temple bearing grandiose texture yet a serene aura. The roof tops bear vibrant floral arts. The piety of the Buddhists is apparent through their disciplined meditation and prayer, many offering flowers and lighting oil lamps as a token of devotion to the Lord Buddha.
The intricate carvings on the temple walls reveal the indigenous designs and the craftsman ship of the fore fathers that has been passed down from generation to generation. Through reverence and a heart for the future the temple has been maintained and preserved to the extravagant state it stands today.
Kelaniya is an enchanting destination with many sights and excitements combined to create a mesmerizing experience revealing history and simplicity.
By Jeron Daniel
