Explore Colombo: Sri Lanka’s Bustling Capital City
A coastal metropolis at the heart of the nation
Colombo is the perfect blend of Sri Lanka’s rich essence and the urban energy of the world’s most modern cities. Located on the Western coastline, this bustling city is the commercial capital and a melting pot of all the diverse cultures that call this island home. You can easily access top-tier healthcare, banking, shopping and other conveniences that rival those of more developed nations, as well as virtually any product or service you can conceive of. Colombo is very fast-paced (a walk through the streets of Pettah will show you exactly what we mean) and doesn’t stop for anyone – but it will always find a way to surprise you with a heartwarming moment or two. No matter how busy it may seem, this metropolitan hub hasn’t lost its Sri Lankan spirit. Although slightly expensive due to the higher costs of living, it is well worth a short stop during your journey.
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Colombo
Points of Interest
- Pettah: A bustling marketplace sprawling across a network of adjoining streets, where you can find everything from affordable running shoes to industrial goods. Be sure to visit the iconic Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque while you’re there.
- Galle Face Green: An open seaside promenade and urban park, popular among families and couples. Enjoy deep-fried snacks and other street food. Tip: try kite-flying, an isso wadey (a prawn lentil patty), and catch the sunset for a truly memorable experience.
- National Museum: Home to thousands of historic, cultural and archaeological wonders, this museum is the perfect place to explore Sri Lanka’s rich history and heritage. Entry requires a ticket priced at LKR 1500 for adults and LKR 750 for kids.
- Gangaramaya Temple: Probably Colombo’s most visually stunning temple, adorned with golden embellishments and intricate architecture. Located next to the Beira Lake, it is very welcoming of visitors. Note: Be sure to adhere to the dress code. Entry requires a ticket of around LKR 500 for adults.
- Lotus Tower:A distinctive part of the Colombo skyline, this is the tallest self-supported structure in South Asia, offering an unparalleled bird’s-eye view of the city. Entry requires a ticket priced at around USD 20 per adult.
FAQs
How many days should I spend in Colombo?
While Colombo has a great many attractions, one to two days should be enough to cover the main highlights, especially considering that the rest of Sri Lanka has so much more to uncover.
What can you do in Colombo in 1 day?
If you only have a day in Colombo, you can still experience a lot. Start with a short visit to Pettah, cool down with lunch at one of the air-conditioned shopping malls nearby, make a quick stop at the Lotus Tower, explore the Gangaramaya Temple and end your day by catching the sunset at Galle Face Green while enjoying an ice cream.
Places to visit in Colombo with family
There are many family-friendly attractions in Colombo that you can enjoy with kids. Popular spots include Dehiwala Zoo, Viharamahadevi Park, and the Colombo National Museum. You can also find movie theatres, play areas and activities like gaming, mini golf and air hockey.
What is the best way to get around Colombo?
Hiring a trusted driver and a vehicle during your stay in Sri Lanka ensures a safe and stress-free experience. For shorter trips, you can use taxis or book a ride through ride-hailing apps, like Uber or the local alternative, PickMe. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can catch a bus between destinations – make sure to ask someone about the bus routes.
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