Indeewaree School Of Arts
About
Indeewaree School Of Arts offers a wonderful hands-on introduction to Sri Lankan culture through traditional crafts and art workshops designed specifically for children. This intimate local art studio provides an authentic cultural experience where kids can learn traditional techniques like mask painting, batik, or clay work directly from local artisans in a welcoming, family-friendly environment.
Highlights
- ✓Hands-on traditional Sri Lankan craft workshops led by local artisans
- ✓Learning authentic techniques like mask painting, batik, or traditional pottery
- ✓Small, intimate setting perfect for personalized attention
- ✓Children take home their own handmade Sri Lankan artwork as souvenirs
- ✓Authentic cultural immersion in a local, non-touristy environment
Pro Tips
- 1.Contact ahead to arrange workshops in English and confirm availability, as this is a small local studio with limited hours
- 2.Bring a camera to document your child's artwork and the creative process, as these make wonderful travel memories
- 3.Wear clothes that can get messy with paint or dye, as traditional craft work can be hands-on
- 4.Consider arranging a private family workshop for a more personalized experience at this intimate venue
- 5.Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara temple (10 minutes away) for a fuller cultural day
Best Time to Visit
Saturday mornings (10:00 AM) are ideal as the studio is open for longer hours and you can take your time. Sunday afternoon sessions work well too. Avoid the only two available time slots if you prefer more flexibility, and always call ahead to confirm workshop availability.
What to Know
Very budget-friendly pricing (indicated by $ rating). Limited opening hours (only Saturday and Sunday), so advance booking is essential. The studio is located in Peliyagoda, about 30 minutes from central Colombo depending on traffic.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round but only on weekends (Saturday and Sunday). Sri Lanka's dry season (December to March) offers the most comfortable weather for visiting. During monsoon months (May to September), the area can experience heavy afternoon rains, so plan for morning sessions.
Nearby Eats
Kelaniya area has several local Sri Lankan restaurants where families can try traditional rice and curry at very affordable prices. For more familiar options, the nearby Peliyagoda town center (5-10 minutes) has small cafes and bakeries offering hoppers, kottu, and fresh fruit juices that adventurous kids often enjoy.
More Activities Near Kelaniya
Golden Dragon Chinese Restaurant
Golden Dragon Chinese Restaurant offers a welcoming respite for traveling families seeking familiar, kid-friendly flavors in Sri Lanka's Western Province. Located in Kelaniya, this casual eatery specializes in approachable Chinese cuisine that appeals to even the pickiest young eaters, with friendly service that makes international families feel right at home.
Pizza Palace Kelaniya
Pizza Palace Kelaniya offers a winning combination for traveling families: familiar comfort food and a dedicated play area where kids can burn energy while parents relax. This casual, budget-friendly spot provides a welcome break from temple visits and cultural activities, giving children a chance to play in a safe environment while enjoying pizza they'll actually eat.
Kelaniya Public Library
Kelaniya Public Library offers a peaceful respite from Sri Lanka's bustling streets, with a dedicated children's section stocked with books and educational materials. It's an excellent spot for families to introduce kids to Sri Lankan culture through literature, enjoy free air-conditioned comfort, and participate in community reading programs that often welcome visiting children.
Lakshmi's Ice Cream Parlour
Lakshmi's Ice Cream Parlour is a beloved local spot where families can treat their kids to authentic Sri Lankan ice cream flavors alongside familiar favorites. This budget-friendly parlor offers a genuine taste of Sri Lankan culture in a relaxed, family-friendly setting where children can safely explore unique tropical flavors like mango, woodapple, and coconut.