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We are up early and out to explore Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, biggest city and major port. Columbo blends together all the colors and cultures that make up the island nation, weaves them into a patchwork of markets, gardens and buildings both humble and imposing, and wedges all along a narrow strip of beachfront.

We are fascinated by Colombo’s colonial heritage but we tire quickly of the diesel fumes, the traffic congestion

and the starkly functional modern buildings on Galle Rd, the city’s main artery. Cultural and historical attractions in areas such as Fort, Cinnamon Gardens and Petal are rich and varied.

Garagmaya Buddhist Temple and Monastary serves not only as a place of Buddhist worship; it is also a centre of learning. The temple is involved in Buddhist welfare work including old peoples’ homes, a vocational school and an orphanage. The temple is uniquely attractive and tolerant to congregation members of many different religions.