Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Mt Lavinia
Long Colombo's beach retreat, Mt Lavinia makes for a good respite from the city's caco-
phony and fumes. The beach is not bad, although some rivers just north empty dodgy wa-
ter into the ocean after rains and the undertow can be prohibitive. If you're heading to the
famous beaches in the south there's no need to stop here. Otherwise Mt Lavinia's many
beachside cafes are lovely places to laze away the hours until sunset. It's only 15 minutes
by train from Fort, a ride that's a joy itself.
Kotahena
Kotahena, immediately northeast of Pettah, is closely linked to Colombo's port, which
forms the west boundary. It's not as rampant with commerce as Pettah but also boasts
many old buildings and streets. You could easily visit the sights listed here with the ser-
vices of a taxi or three-wheeler.
Hindu Temples HINDU TEMPLES
(Col 13)
During the harvest festival of Thai Pongal (held in January), devotees flock to Sri Pon-
nambalam Vanesar Kovil ( MAP GOOGLE MAP ;Srimath Ramanathan Mawatha, Col 13) ,
which is beautifully built of South Indian granite, and Sri Muthumariamman Kovil (Ko-
tahena St, Col 13) . The latter's namesake goddess is thought to be responsible for many mir-
acles.
St Anthony's Church CHURCH
( MAP GOOGLE MAP ; www.stanthonyshrinekochchikade.org ;St Anthony's Mawatha, Col 13;
6am-6pm)
One of the city's most interesting shrines is St Anthony's Church. Outside it looks like a
typical Portuguese Catholic church, but inside the atmosphere is distinctly subcontinental.
There are queues of devotees offering puja (offerings or prayers) to a dozen ornate statues;
a statue of St Anthony said to be endowed with miraculous qualities is the centre of devo-
tions from people of many faiths.
 
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