Colombo, Sri Lanka's vibrant capital, offers a blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and modern attractions. Visitors can explore bustling markets, colonial-era architecture, serene temples, and enjoy diverse culinary delights.
Colombo, city, executive and judicial capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo is a principal port on the Indian Ocean. It has one of the largest artificial harbours in the world and handles the majority of Sri Lanka’s foreign trade.
Explore Sri Lanka's colonial history in Colombo whilst simultaneously getting a taste of the city's vibrant multicultural modern day society and discover the city's multi-ethnic legacy. Its rich heritage and a glorious past can be witnessed through its art, handicrafts, architecture, sculptures, and the food, making it the perfect getaway for heritage lover.
Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) welcomes you with great delight and honor however, for you to be able to make your vacation comfortable and memorable.
DAY-1 : Colombo
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DAY-2 : Colombo
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Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most important and oldest Buddhist temple in Colombo, Sri Lanka started by the famous scholar monk Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera in the late 19th Century. It is a blend of Sri Lankan, Indian, and Thai architecture, featuring intricate carvings, paintings, and a large Buddha statue being a mix of modern architecture and cultural essence. Located on the Beira Lake, it was completed in the late 19th century.
The intricate carvings on the doors and walls of the temple are marvellous. The wall murals convey informative Buddhist legends and stories, while the colossal statue of Lord Buddha emanates peaceful vibes all over the temple. It’s a serene and enriching stop, especially if you’re planning a family trip to Sri Lanka that blends culture, spirituality, and architectural beauty.
A beautiful stretch of open space sandwiched between the bustling Galle road and the Indian Ocean, Galle Face Green is one of the most popular picnic attractions in Colombo. The place received considerable footfall, especially on weekends when there are countless vendors around, tempting the little ones with all kinds of toys.
It also helps that the area is lined with street-food vendors, making it one of the best places to indulge in the street-food culture of Colombo. Looked after and maintained by Sri Lanka’s urban Urban Development Authority, Galle Face Park also promises you a phenomenal sunset, a perfect setting for couples on a Sri Lanka honeymoon trip looking to unwind by the sea.
Taking its name after Queen Viharamahadevi, the Viharamahadevi Park is the largest one in Colombo. Combining picnic spots, waterfalls, a public park, a zoo, nature trails, and much more, the park is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Colombo. It is one of those rare few places that always manage to surprise you, regardless of how many times you visit.
The calming, peaceful vibes of nature combined with the adventurous rides make this place an unmissable spot when travelling to Colombo. If you’re on a 3 days trip to Sri Lanka, this park offers the perfect blend of leisure and light adventure. While it is no wonder that the park is a favourite amongst kids, it also appeals equally to adults seeking respite from the banter of routine life.
Erected in the year 1953, the Independence Memorial Hall is one of the most popular tourist places in Colombo. Built as a tribute to the nation’s independence from British rule, the hall annually hosts the Independence Day celebrations along with various other national events.
this iconic landmark offers a meaningful glimpse into the country's rich history. Sitting right in the centre of Cinnamon Gardens, there is also a museum on the premises which stands to commemorate the brave souls who fought for the nation.
Established during 1877, this is the biggest museum in the island nation and is undoubtedly the pride of Sri Lanka. The place houses some of the best and personalised collections of the ancient Kandyan dynasty rulers. Carrying striking reflections of the Italian style of architecture, the museum houses countless artefacts dating back several centuries, portraying the cultural and natural nuances of the country and it is one of the famous places to visit in Colombo.
Check out the magnificent throne of the last king of Kandi, along with the royal throne of King Wimaladharmasuriya II and pair of Bodhisattva sandals dating back to the 9th century! If you’re a history fanatic or simply curious about the culture of Sri Lanka.
Jami Ul-Afar is a great mosque sitting in the confines of Second Cross Street in Colombo. The mosque is quite prominent and stands out with its red and white striped colour, almost like a candy! Built by Habibu Labbe Saibu Labbe, the mosque is one of the many culturally rich places to visit in Colombo. A dreamy synthesis of Indian, Indo-Islamic, Neoclassical, and Gothic styles of architecture can be seen here - a true cultural gem to explore.
Put together the elements of picnic, adventure, and pilgrimage, and you have Beria Lake, one of the most beautiful tourist places in Colombo. Set in the heart of the city, Beria Lake sits in close proximity to the legendary Gangaramaya Temple, while a beautiful temple called Seema Makala temple graces the centre of the lake. .
The resident temple is furnished with beautiful idols of Buddhist and Hindu deities. Religious appeal aside, the lake is a popular haunt for birdwatchers and photographers, especially during the evenings when a spectacular sunset lights up the sky. Spanning nearly 160 acres, the lake is also famous for rowing and other activities, making it a perfect spot to unwind
If you’ve never heard of something called an island temple, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Seema Malakaya is the perfect option for those looking for a little quiet time away from the maddening rush of the city. The tropical vibes of the place make it an ideal choice for couples, too.
Surrounded by lush greenery beside the water, the Seema Malaka temple carries a stunning amalgamation of the Chinese, Thai, Indian, and Sri Lankan styles of architecture. Aiming to promote peace amongst people of all cultures and religions, Seema Malakaya is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Colombo and a serene highlight
One of the most unique structures in Colombo, the Lotus Tower is nearly 350 meters tall and towers over Slave Island. The top of the structure closely resembles the namesake flower. The tower serves as a transmission hub, which aims at improving the quality of transmission communication and broadcast.
While that is the primary aim of Lotus Tower, it also features observation decks, shopping centres, restaurants, and banquet halls. It is one of the lesser-known tourist places in Colombo.
Located on Pettah’s Bastian Mawatha, Pettah Floating market is one of the most sensational shopping spots in Colombo. A former cluster of dilapidated warehouses and smelly water, the market was considered a danger zone. The market was then transformed by the merged efforts of the UDA and a brilliant architect called Thushari Kariyawasam.
The former swamp was then transformed into a calm marketplace lined with cemented paths and elegant wooden walkways. The market is abuzz with vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to clothes, jewellery, electronics, and handicraft items.
One of the most important government offices in Sri Lanka, the Old Parliament Building in Colombo bears reflections of the Neo-baroque architectural styles. Rooted in history and politics, there are many stories that build up the reputation of the building. The building was built in the year 1930 and declared as the Parliament of Sri Lanka in 1977.
The Parliament of Sri Lanka was shortly shifted to the new office in Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, and the old building has since been serving as the residence of the Presidential Secretariat. The garden within the premises is home to a number of bronze statues, too. If politics and history fascinate you, the Old Parliament Building is one of the most inspiring tourist places in Colombo.
If you like architecture or history, the Old City Hall on Main Street is amongst the greatest attractions in Colombo. The hall was built nearly 200 years ago, the brilliant architectural vestiges of which era can still be seen in the exteriors. If you’re really keen on exploring the history of Sri Lanka, you might want to take a guided tour of the hall, though it might cost you a considerable amount as tip.
That said, this place is a treasure chest of information, and exhibits ancient equipment, machinery and various other historical items that will really ignite your imagination.
One of the most interesting attractions in Colombo, St. Anthony’s Church, nestled in the heart of the city, appeals to visitors from all castes. Visit the church on a Tuesday, and you will see throes of devotees waiting their turn to offer prayers and seek blessings of the statue of St. Anthony. The statue is believed to possess magical powers and is one of the several reasons that the church is the centre of attention and devotion for so many.
Unlike other places of worship that exude distinctly religious vibes, St. Anthony’s church in Colombo welcomes people from all religions to promote peace and unity. Having been declared as a national shrine now, the church is a must-visit destination for travellers, especially those with a penchant for history and culture
Kelaniya Raja Maha Viraha is a Buddhist temple applauded for the incredible sculptures that it harbours. Located about 10 km away from Colombo, the temple stands tall and proud despite having been demolished by hostile forces from India and Portugal. Built along the banks of river Kelaniya, the temple is one of the most consecrated spaces in Colombo.
The temple was originally built in the year 543 BC, and can, till this date, be seen in all its glory after having been restored in the 18th century. It is one of the true upholders of culture and tradition amongst all other tourist attractions in Colombo.
The Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple, not to be mistaken for the one in Kalutara, is a beautiful Buddhist temple steeped in culture and religion. The temple interiors and passageways are adorned with epic paintings of Lord Buddha’s life, depicting different stories. The temple is best known for the age-old custom where devotees pledge vows and make certain donations here.
This has resulted in an interesting collection of items in the temple. The fact that it isn’t as popular as the other temples in Colombo may be ascribed to its seemingly uninteresting exterior, but the vibrant paintings housed inside are worth the visit!
The Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam, more commonly known as Kapikaawatha Shiva Temple is the oldest temple in Colombo. Built as a tribute to the Hindu gods Shiva and Ganesha, the temple is one of the most culturally beautiful places to see in Colombo and says a lot about the city’s heritage. This 200-years-old temple exhibits the quintessential Hindu architectural style, a rarity in the country.
he vibrant building of the temple is adorned with stone sculptures and intricate carvings, including a lotus carved into the main door. If you like exploring culture and heritage, you should not miss a visit to this temple.
The Dutch Period Museum, set in the very heart of the Pettah market, is one of the most interesting places to visit in Colombo. The unique architecture of the museum combined with the countless personal belongings of several Dutch rulers endears the place to patrons of history and culture. Spread over 2 storeys, the museum was originally the official residence of the then Dutch Governor of Sri Lanka, Thomas Van Rhee.With help from the Government of the Netherlands, the mansion was converted into a public museum in the year 1977.
Established in the 17th century, the Old Dutch Hospital is one of the oldest and most well-preserved buildings in Colombo. It was built with the intention of providing medical aid to the workers of the Dutch East India Company. Although the building served many different purposes over the years, it has now been turned into a shopping centre.
Although the building is furnished with several shops, Odels is one particular place that deals in top-quality clothes and souvenirs. The building also appeals to foodies who can choose from the multiple cafes and food joints that thrive there. Located in Galle Fort, Old Dutch Hospital remains one of the most entertaining attractions in Colombo.
Another great spot sitting right beside Galle Beach is the famous Old Galle Buck Lighthouse. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet without having to stray too far from the city, the Old Galle Lighthouse is your best bet. A little offbeat, the lighthouse affords you clear, mind-blowing views of the seemingly endless Indian Ocean..
Nestled within the boundaries of the Sri Lankan Navy, the best time to visit the lighthouse is at sundown when the sky burns orange and pink over the stretch of the ocean beneath. It goes unsaid that this is the best place to experience the sunset. Another highlight, the lighthouse is considerably less crowded!
Out of the fifteen cathedrals that make up one of the main parishes of Sri Lanka, St. Lucia’s Cathedral is named after Saint Lucy. Located in the north-eastern part of Colombo, St.Lucia’s Cathedral is the official seal of the Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Colombo. Besides the religious and cultural significance that the cathedral holds in Sri Lanka, it is also one of the most aesthetically pleasing places to see in Colombo.
You can point out prominent features belonging to the Renaissance and Baroque eras, along with colossal statues and white columns that will instantly teleport you to ancient Europe. Don’t miss the amazing choir when visiting here!
Arugam Bay Beach is the place to be! The tropical paradise of Arugam is the ideal place to indulge in adventures, or even just to sit back and soak in the radiant sunlight. The Beach is free from the mindless city chatter and allows you the peace and quiet you need while keeping your adventurous spirit alive and it is one of the best relaxing places to visit in Colombo,a trip to the Kumana National Park is almost obligatory when traveling to Arugam Bay Beach.
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