Hotels near Seema Malaka on Beira Lake

Seema Malaka is a set of three timber platforms with copper roofs, built out over Beira Lake and reached by a pontoon walkway. Geoffrey Bawa designed the current structure in 1976 after the original sank, and it now serves as the meditation and ordination hall for Gangaramaya Temple. Rows of seated Buddha figures line the outer decks, facing the office towers on the far bank.

The LKR 500 ticket, about 1.50 EUR, is shared with Gangaramaya Temple a short walk away. Most of the walkway has no roof, so this is a short visit in midday sun. Water monitors sun themselves along the lake edge and are harmless if left alone. Shoes come off at the entrance to the platforms, and shoulders should stay covered throughout.

Pro Tip: Arrive near 6pm for the light on the water. The platforms hold about 30 people comfortably, so wait a tour group out on the shore rather than crowding onto the deck.