Colombo Things To Do

The city of Colombo boasts a rich heritage with strong Dutch, Portuguese and British influences, and evidence of its colonial rule is displayed throughout the city. Places of interest to see include the historic region of Fort, which has become the main commercial district, the President's House, the Galle Face Hotel, the Old Parliament building and the Dutch Wolvendaal Church.

Day trips and attractions in Colombo include the beautiful Vihara Maha Devi Park, the Galle Face Green promenade (ideal for walks and picnics), the Planetarium, the Zoological Gardens, Dehiwala Zoo and Slave Island. Cricket-lovers can enjoy watching a match at one of the city's grounds.

 

There are many diverse places of worship to visit throughout the city, including the Jami Ul Alfar mosque, Hindu temples such as the Ganeshan, the Old Kathiresan and Murugan, and Buddhist temples including Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara and Gangarama Pirivena.

 

The Pettah bazaar lies east of Fort, and displays a vibrant slice of life in Sri Lanka in its busy cobbled streets lined with packed shops and stalls. Here is the place to find all manner of goods, from locally-made handicrafts, clothing, gemstones, electrical, leatherwear and books, to spices and fresh produce. 

 

Like most major cities, Colombo is home to a wide range of dining options, from roadside street foods and no-frills cafes, to upmarket hotel restaurants. All types of international food are available, but visitors should try the local Sri Lankan curries and rice dishes of the area, featuring plenty of spices and coconut.

Colombo has various performing arts centres and theatres, and city museums include the National Museum and the Colombo Dutch Museum. Entertainment and nightlife for visitors features everything from discos and cinemas, to themed cultural shows and concerts.   

 

Many people combine a city-break in Colombo with a relaxing holiday at one of Sri Lankas beautiful beaches. Nearest beaches to Colombo include Mount Lavina, just 10km away and Hendala, whilst popular tourist resorts such as Negombo and Galle are within easy reach.