Colombo

Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, is a melting pot of ethnicities, traditions, cultures and architecture. Its colonial edifices blend with the swanky skyscrapers, the colorful local bazaars twinkle along with glittery malls and the deep Buddhist chants are in harmony with the Church bells. A treasure trove of attractions; from colonial structures to glorious temples, from quiet beaches to jazzy casinos & nightclubs and from oceanfront parks to fascinating museums; Colombo has a lot to offer to all kinds of travelers.

Major Attractions in Colombo

Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple

This captivating temple is an assimilation of Sinhalese, Indian, Thai and Chinese architecture. Enshrining the much revered Bodhi tree and a sacred lock of Buddha’s hair, Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most visited attractions in Colombo. A massive complex that houses a museum, a library and a intriguing display of objects & artifacts, Gangaramaya holds a prominent position in the Sri Lankan society as a center for art & education.

Beira Lake

It was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century as a channel or moat to defend its position in the region. Now a charming lake known for beautiful pathways, delightful blue-roofed temple, endearing swan shaped pedal boats, and its marvelous suspension bridge leading to the enchanting Lovers Island, Beira is pretty popular with locals & tourists alike.

Viharamahadevi Park

Named after Queen Viharamahadevi, this huge park is home to well-manicured gardens, an aquarium, a mini zoo, a children’s play area, a war memorial, and a lake with an overhead suspension bridge.

Galle Face Green

Originally cleared to ensure unhampered sights to the British cannons, this green stretch of land developed adjacent to the narrow beach is now a favorite haunt of the people of Colombo. Hawkers peddling balloons & snacks, kids flying kites, teenagers playing cricket or football and families picnicking, are a common sight at Galle Face Green.

National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka

Also known as Dehiwala Zoo, these gardens are home to a variety of mammals, birds, fishes, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies and marine invertebrates.

Mount Lavinia Beach

The romantic legend of Lovina, a gypsy dancer and Sir Maitland, the Governor General of Ceylon, lends its name to this serene beach. This postcard beach, located in the suburbs, is a great place to bathe, swim or try some delicious seafood. The erstwhile mansion of the Governor General named “Mount Lavinia House”, after his beloved, has been restored as the world famous Mount Lavinia Hotel.

Other Attractions in Colombo

• Clock Tower cum Lighthouse.
• Old Dutch Hospital
• Colombo National Museum
• Colombo Dutch Museum
• Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

Shopping in Colombo

Colombo, being a famous port since the 5th century, has been a shopper’s delight. The colorful maze of Pettah, where you can buy anything from vegetables to electronics and from meat to jewelry, is truly a shopper’s paradise. Check out its floating market with numerous stalls selling aromatic Ceylon tea, fragrant spices, precious & semi precious stones, traditional masks and pretty jewelry & trinkets. Also, the Old Dutch Hospital in the Fort area has now been converted into a charming shopping complex for a wonderful shopping experience.

Street foods of Colombo

Relish the spicy flavors of Colombo in its hot street foods. Isso Vadei- the prawn & lentil cakes, Kothu- the spicy mix of strips of chapattis, vegetables & meat, hoppers & string hoppers with flavorful chutney and sweet Saravita- a colorful coconut treat wrapped in beetle leaf are not to be missed while in Colombo.

Best Time to Visit Colombo

Colombo is best visited from December to March, which is the dry season and from July to September when it pre monsoon time with some welcome showers downing the heat.

How to Reach Colombo

By Air- By Air- Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo connects Colombo to all major cities in the world.

By Rail- Colombo is well-connected to all major cities in Sri Lanka by a rail network.

By Road- A good network of roads & highways connect Colombo to all parts of the country.