Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.

Kelaniya sits just 7 kilometres east of Colombo along the Colombo–Kandy road, placing it well within reach of the capital yet firmly in the Gampaha district to its south. Despite its proximity to a modern metropolis, Kelaniya carries a depth of history and legend that stretches beyond the boundaries of recorded time in Sri Lanka.

This video explores the city's geography, its various approaches by road, rail and air, and the remarkable historical and pre-historical significance that makes Kelaniya one of the more quietly compelling destinations in the Western Province.

Reaching Kelaniya

The most straightforward route is along the Colombo–Kandy A1 main motorway. Travelling past Peliyagoda, Kelaniya is reached within a distance of approximately 3 kilometres. The main town closest to Colombo along this corridor is Kiribatgoda. Those approaching from the Biyagama Free Trade Zone can use the Peliyagoda–Biyagama Road as an alternative approach.

For those preferring rail, the Kelani Weli railway route running out of Colombo provides a direct connection to Kelaniya. A more unusual option is the air taxi service operated by Sri Lankan Airlines, the national carrier. All such flights are restricted to daylight hours and fair weather conditions. Fifteen-passenger seaplanes are also available for charter on private flights.

Kelaniya in Prehistory

Most of the important cities of Sri Lanka are associated with an unbroken recorded history stretching as far back as 543 BC. Kelaniya reaches still further, into the island's prehistory. According to tradition, the Buddha is believed to have visited Kelaniya at a time when war was imminent between two kings of the Naga tribe — named Chulodara and Mahodara — over a gem-studded throne. Following the Buddha's appearance, the war is said to have been averted. A stupa was subsequently built at Kelaniya enshrining that disputed gem-studded throne.

Kelaniya in Ancient and Medieval History

Kelaniya's place in ancient history is of great significance. It is regarded as the city that gave birth to Queen Vihara Maha Devi, the mother of King Dutugamunu — a figure celebrated as a hero of the nation. The city's cultural and natural prestige endured well into the medieval period: in the literary works known as Sandesa Kavaya — Sinhala verse compositions in the form of messages — the city of Kelaniya, set over the Kelaniya River, is described as a place of great natural beauty.