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Viharamahadevi Park
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Viharamahadevi Park is the oldest and largest public park in Colombo, located in the prestigious Cinnamon Gardens district. Originally named Victoria Park by the British, it was renamed in 1958 in honor of Queen Viharamahadevi, the heroic mother of King Dutugemunu. The park was built on land donated by the philanthropist Charles Henry de Soysa and served as a military base for the British Army during World War World II. Today, it is a centerpiece of the city's green space, featuring a large golden statue of Buddha at its southern entrance. The grounds include manicured lawns, flowering trees like the Flamboyant and Cassia, and several fountains. It is situated adjacent to the National Museum of Colombo and the Town Hall, making it a central point for cultural and civic life. The park also hosts a war memorial cenotaph and an open-air stadium for public events.
- Location: Sri Lanka
- Top sights: Viharamahadevi Park Aquarium · National Art Gallery · Russian Cultural Center
- Nearby: Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 76 | 71 | 115 | 226 | 224 | 143 | 99 | 113 | 162 | 292 | 305 | 175 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Viharamahadevi Park is located in the heart of Colombo, opposite the Town Hall, and is easily accessible by public buses, taxis, or tuk-tuks from anywhere in the city.
Best season
The park can be visited year-round, though the period outside the monsoon rains, typically from December to March, is most pleasant for outdoor strolls and sightseeing.
Terrain & paths
The terrain is spacious and flat, featuring wide, paved pathways that weave between green lawns, shady trees, and the central water fountains throughout the urban park.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection or an umbrella are advisable, as you will be doing a lot of walking in the city's largest park under Colombo's humid weather.
Parking
Limited parking is available on the surrounding streets; visitors often use the parking zones near the Town Hall or the National Museum of Colombo which is located nearby.
Safety
The park is very safe and busy during the day; however, as in any urban park, you should mind your valuables and stick to the designated walkways at all times.
Time needed
A visit typically lasts about one to two hours, which is sufficient time to view the large Buddha statue and take a relaxed stroll through the city's oldest public park.
Geography
Facts
- Oldest public park in Colombo
- Renamed in the year 1958
- Located near Colombo Town Hall
- Built on land donated by C. H. de Soysa
- Features a large golden Buddha statue
- Used as a military base in WWII
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Viharamahadevi Park (14)
Town Hall, Colombo🏺 historical
A Neoclassical white building designed to resemble the United States Capitol.
🌐 colombo.mc.gov.lk🕒 Mo-Fr 08:30-16:15
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Viharamahadevi Park located?
It is the largest park in Colombo, located right across from the Town Hall.
What is the landmark of the park?
The large golden Buddha statue at the main entrance.
Are there play areas for children?
Yes, there is a large playground and a small water park for children.
When are the flowering trees most beautiful?
From February to May, when the Tabebuia trees bloom in pink and white.
Does it cost anything to enter the park?
No, entry to the park is free for all visitors.
Viharamahadevi Park: where is it located?
Viharamahadevi Park is located in Sri Lanka.
Viharamahadevi Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Viharamahadevi Park Aquarium, National Art Gallery, Russian Cultural Center.
Viharamahadevi Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Jul.
Viharamahadevi Park: why is it worth visiting?
Viharamahadevi Park is the oldest and largest public park in Colombo, located in the prestigious Cinnamon Gardens district.
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