Sri Kailasanathar Swami Devasthanam also known as Kapikatha Shiva Devalaya is one of the oldest Hindu Kovil in Colombo. The temple was dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva and lasted for over two centuries. It is one of the most beautiful temples in Colombo.The temple was built in Maradana, Colombo by a group of Indian Chetty dealers known as Thiruvinga Nakarathar who visited Sri Lanka two hundred years ago.
King Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe ruled Kandy at that time. The Dutch occupied coastal areas and managed trade. It was in this environment that the Chetty Merchants left Sri Lanka. They were Hindus and the Hindu Chetty merchants who lived in the area worshiped the little Sivalingam under a tree. According to the Vedic document no Hindu temple was built in Colombo and he agreed to bring it with other vendors and build such a temple.
In 1783 he laid the foundation of a Chetty merchant called Sri Veerappattran. The builder also took responsibility for financing the construction. Soon the temple was built. The temple was known as the Captain Garden Garden Temple at the time. The name comes from a Dutch official responsible for overseeing the temple business.
The temple was designed by talented temple architects and sculptors. Maintains the classic Hindu Kovil appearance that is seldom seen in Sri Lanka. The colorful main tower, with its detailed sculptures, intricate lotus carved main door, stone and stone statues, artifacts and other features. In addition to the main shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva; The main temple is surrounded by several shrines for other Hindu gods and goddesses. There are many beautiful and beautiful paintings of the Goddess and Goddess. There are also beautiful engravings on astrology. The roof of the temple is covered with amazing paintings.
The main shrines include Ganesh, Skandha, Dharka, Vairavar, Ambal, Nine Planets, Kali, Brahma, Sandeshwar and many more. Guests should wash their feet and take off their shoes before entering. They are also not allowed to take pictures inside the temple unless proper prior approval is obtained.
Today, Kailasanathar Swamy Devasthanam is one of the most popular places of worship in Colombo with thousands of devotees
