Colombo, Sri Lanka: A Full Travel Guide
The busiest city in Sri Lanka and its capital, Colombo is an energetic and dynamic city that combines colonial nostalgia and modern state-of-the-art. Being one of the coastal fronts of the island nation, Colombo welcomes its visitors with a diverse cultural experience, culinary treats, tourist attractions in the form of both history and nature. Whether you are exploring the bustling streets of the city, taking in its vibrant marketplaces or the serenity of its shores, Colombo offers something for every kind of traveller. This guide goes to the best places to visit in and around Colombo and make your trip memorable.
Best Attractions in Colombo
Galle Face Green
Galle Face Green: One of Colombo’s most famous sites, Galle Face Green is a long stretch of promenade facing the ocean where you can find locals and tourists taking in the sea breeze. Enjoy this place as you walk around leisurely, fly kites or munch on Sri Lankan street food from the vendors.
Gangaramaya Temple
Gangaramaya Temples A major cultural and religious center, Gangaramaya Temple features a blend of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian and Chinese architectural styles. In addition to being a forest temple, it is also a museum of ancient relics, statues and other artifacts.
Independence Square
As a symbol of Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule, this beautifully landscaped area includes the Independence Memorial Hall, a tribute to the country’s freedom. The square is a nice place to take a peaceful stroll and view some historic architecture.
Pettah Market
For the authentic shopping experience, you must visit Pettah Market. As such, it is a bustling market with everything from textiles and electronics to fresh produce and street food. Not for the faint-hearted, wandering in the busy streets of Pettah offers an insight into local life.
National Museum of Colombo
The national museum features a rich collection of Sri Lankan artifacts, and is the ideal place to learn about the country’s past. From ancient artifacts to colonial-era displays, this museum offers wonderful insight into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.
Viharamahadevi Park
Close to Town Hall, Colombo’s biggest park is a green oasis in the heart of the city. It’s a great spot for relaxing, picnicking and leisurely walks, surrounded by beautiful gardens and anchored by a large Buddha statue in the center.
Colombo Dutch Hospital
This was once a hospital during the Dutch colonial era, and has now been repurposed into a shopping and dining precinct. The Dutch Hospital is a delightful place for an evening stroll, with its quaint courtyards, boutique stores and high-end restaurants.
Best Locations Around Colombo
If you have the time to go beyond the city, numerous getaways within the proximity of Colombo provide magnificent views, cultural legacy, and experiences that are one of a kind.
Mount Lavinia Beach (10KM from Colombo)
Located just a short drive from Colombo, Mount Lavinia Beach is famous for its golden sands and picturesque sunsets. The area includes the historic Mount Lavinia Hotel and has lots of beachside restaurants and bars.
Negombo (40 km from Colombo)
Negombo, a coastal town north of Colombo, is known for idyllic beaches, active fishing and Dutch-era canals. Visitors can explore Negombo Lagoon, visit St. Mary’s Church or take a boat ride through the Muthurajawela Marsh.
Bentota (65 km from Colombo)
Bentota is a pleasant getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city with tranquil beaches and water sports. It’s also the location of the Brief Garden, Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery and the scenic Madu River for boat safaris.
Kalutara (45 km from Colombo)
Kalutara is famous for its beautiful beach and the Kalutara Bodhiya, an important Buddhist shrine. Visitors can also visit Richmond Castle, a colonial-era mansion with an interesting background.
Kandy (115 km from Colombo)
Kolanton) Although it’s somewhat farther from Colombo, Kandy is definitely worth visiting for its cultural importance. It has fascinating destinations such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy Lake, and the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya.
Galle (120 km from Colombo)
Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features a historic fort, idyllic streets and stunning beaches. You HAVE to visit the Dutch Fort, and the town’s boutique hotels and cafes add to the charm.
• Kitulgala (90 km from Colombo)
If you love adventure, Kitulgala is the place to go. There are opportunities for white-water rafting, jungle trekking and bird-watching in a magnificent rainforest setting.
The 12 Best Places to Eat in Colombo
Ministry of Crab
One of Colombo’s most famous restaurants, Ministry of Crab serves up some of the best seafood around, particularly its signature crab dishes. Set in the historic Dutch Hospital precinct, it’s a destination for seafood aficionados.
The Lagoon
The Lagoon (Cinnamon Grand Hotel) The Lagoon is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Sri Lankan flavors. The restaurant lets guests pick their seafood and customize the cooking style.
Nuga Gama
A more traditional Sri Lankan dining experience can be had at Nuga Gama, where dishes are served amid rustic village-style decor. The menu features local specialties such as hoppers, kottu roti and rice and curry.
Upali’s by Nawaloka
Another excellent choice for Sri Lankan dining, Upali’s menu features excellent rice and curry, string hoppers and a range of traditional sweets.
The Gallery Café
Located in the former office of noted architect Geoffrey Bawa, this cafe is known for its ambiance, sumptuous fusion cuisine, and luscious desserts.
Best Shopping in Colombo
Odel
Odel is one of the most popular shopping spots in Colombo and offers a variety of fashion, accessories, gifts, souvenirs and books.
Barefoot
A boutique store specializing in colorful handloom textiles, Barefoot also has a café where guests can unwind over live music.
Laksala
For genuine Sri Lankan handicrafts, Laksala is the top place to shop for souvenirs, including traditional masks and batik-style fabrics.
Paradise Road
A chic homeware and design shop, Paradise Road sells ceramics, furniture and art pieces that are of high quality and reflect the aesthetic heritage of Sri Lanka.
Conclusion
November 25, 2022 12:48 pm Colombo – the capital of Sri Lanka Colombo is a city that combines history, culture and modernity, making it an excellent tourism destination. From visiting colonial and temple sites to their delicious food and unique souvenirs they have it all. The surrounding destinations offer stunning landscapes and the surrounding experiences of the country to make the travel destination of Sri Lanka more attractive. Colombo and its surroundings offer an unforgettable journey whether you are a history buff, a gourmet, a sun worshipper or just an adventurous traveller looking to explore off the beaten path.