Weherahena Temple

Matara


On the east side of Matara, turn inland 1km off the main road for this gaudy temple that features an artificial cave decorated with about 200 cartoon-like scenes from the Buddha’s life. There’s also a huge Buddha statue.

During the late-November or early December poya (full moon), a perahera (procession) of dancers and elephants is held at the temple to celebrate the anniversary of its founding.