A Serene Retreat: St. Anthony's Church in Dematagoda
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of St. Anthony's Church in Dematagoda, a serene sanctuary in the heart of Colombo.
St. Anthony's Church in Dematagoda is a tranquil sanctuary that welcomes visitors to experience its stunning architecture, rich history, and spiritual ambiance. Perfect for reflection and exploration, this place of worship is a must-visit for tourists in Colombo.
A brief summary to St. Anthony's Church - Dematagoda | සා.අන්තෝනි දේවස්ථානය - දෙමටගොඩ
- WVJF+H4F, Colombo, Colombo 09, LK
- +94112677511
- Visit website
- Monday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
- Sunday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and better opportunities for personal reflection.
- Dress modestly as a sign of respect when entering the church.
- Take your time to admire the intricate details of the stained glass and statues.
- Check the schedule for mass times if you wish to participate in a service.
- Explore the surrounding area, as there are several local eateries to enjoy traditional Sri Lankan cuisine nearby.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start from Colombo city center. Take the Baseline Road (A1) heading towards Dematagoda. After approximately 4 km, turn left onto Dematagoda Road. Continue straight for about 1 km, and you will see St. Anthony's Church on your right. There is parking available nearby, but be mindful of any parking fees that might apply.
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Public Transportation - Bus
From Colombo Fort Railway Station, take a bus heading towards Dematagoda. Look for buses labeled 'Dematagoda' or 'Pettah'. The journey will take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Get off at the Dematagoda Junction, and from there, it's a 10-minute walk to the church. Walk straight down Dematagoda Road, and the church will be on your right.
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Public Transportation - Train
If you prefer train travel, take a train from Colombo Fort Station to Colombo 09 - Dematagoda Station. The train ride takes about 15 minutes. Once you arrive at Dematagoda Station, exit and walk towards Dematagoda Road, which is about a 5-minute walk. Continue along Dematagoda Road for approximately 800 meters, and you will find St. Anthony's Church on your right.
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Tuk-Tuk
For a more localized experience, consider taking a tuk-tuk from your location in Colombo. Simply tell the driver 'Dematagoda' or 'St. Anthony's Church'. The fare should be negotiated beforehand or can be agreed upon using a ride-hailing app. The journey will likely take around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.