Introduction
Colombo is the bustling capital of Sri Lanka. Sitting on the shores of the Indian Ocean, Colombo is known for its fort-like structures, stately colonial buildings, abundant green spaces, and lively culture. So whether you want to explore its highlighted attractions or escape the city into nature, there’s an activity for everyone in Colombo!
You can enjoy exploring a combination of historical monuments and sights such as the Sri Lanka War Memorial, Wolfendhal Church, and St. Peter’s Church, kaleidoscopic city life full of markets, malls, and cinema complexes or its mirror-image neighborhoods filled with lush parks and tranquil beachfront.
If you’re looking to get out and explore more outdoor activities in locales surrounding Colombo, then visit Negombo town, which boasts some beautiful beaches for swimming and viewing stunning wildlife, or take a day trip to Sigiriya Rock Fortress – a stunning ancient architectural marvel in the middle of a jungle that must be seen up close.
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing retreat from city life – it’s all available in Colombo!
Shopping
Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, offers a variety of shopping experiences for all kinds of visitors. From bargain-hunting in bustling local markets to luxury shopping in air-conditioned malls, Colombo has something for everyone looking for a great shopping experience.
Here are some of the best places to go shopping in Colombo:
Pettah Market
Pettah Market is one of the largest and oldest markets in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This bustling locale offers travelers a unique glimpse into the city’s more traditional culture and a shopping experience unlike any other.
The market is divided into a few sections, each specializing in different items. Visitors can explore stalls filled with spices, sarees, electronic goods, cutlery, jewelry, and more. The market also hosts many street food vendors offering specialty dishes such as Kottu Roti and Kavum (deep-fried coconut sweet).
Pettah Market is a unique place to explore, shop, or even have breakfast. Shopping hours are from 9 AM to 5 PM on most weekdays. Some shops remain open even on weekends, making it convenient for travelers to visit at any time of day or evening. Bargaining is the norm, so be prepared to barter for a reasonable price! For visitors looking to take home something authentic from Sri Lanka, Pettah Market should be included in your shopping list.
Majestic City
Known to most locals as the “Majestic City,” Colombo is a haven for shoppers looking for high-end and affordable items. There’s a little bit of everything in the city, from home decor to clothing and electronic equipment to handicrafts.
Majestic City is located at the heart of Colombo, one of the largest shopping malls in Sri Lanka. Here, you can find all types of items from luxury labels like Chanel, Armani, and Gucci; mid-range brands like Nike and Adidas; or even smaller boutique stores selling local and homemade products.
The food court at Majestic City has many great restaurants offering local Sri Lankan food as well as international cuisines. In addition, plenty of entertainment options exist, such as bowling alleys, karaoke bars, and cinemas showing the latest movies.
With its various stores catering to all kinds of budgets, Majestic City is the place you should visit when shopping in Colombo!
Odel
Odel is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and is a must-visit destination for any shopaholic. It features some of the country’s biggest brands, labels, and smaller independent stores. There’s also a large selection of souvenirs for visitors to take home with them. Odel has been around since 1980 and has grown from its original outlet in Colombo to now operating additional stores in Kandy and Mount Lavinia.
Most of Odel’s products range from economical clothing to luxury designer items from leading fashion labels. They also offer jewelry, accessories, bags, shoes, electronics, and home furnishings. If you’re looking for local craftsmanship, head to their craft store, which sells traditional Sri Lankan items like masks, statues, and antiques. Additionally, they have gadgets such as camera accessories and beauty products ranging from fragrances and perfumes to makeup items. The beauty section houses brands such as Aēsop and La Mer at competitive prices compared to internationally! Visitors can also enjoy duty-free shopping at their airport outlets located at Bandaranaike International Airport.
Sightseeing
Sri Lanka is full of sights and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Colombo, the bustling capital city, has no shortage of activities. From ancient monuments to cultural sites, visiting Colombo will be memorable for any traveler.
Here’s a look at the top sightseeing spots in Colombo that you should not miss:
Galle Face Green
Galle Face Green is a stunning urban park in the heart of Sri Lanka’s capital, Colombo. The long stretch of grass, which runs along the Indian Ocean, makes for a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park is a popular spot for couples for an evening stroll, joggers looking for exercise, and families enjoying a leisurely fray out on the green.
The main attraction at Galle Face Green is its spectacular view of the Indian Ocean, where visitors can watch ships sailing into the harbor and beautiful sunsets over Colombo. Other popular activities include horse-drawn carriage rides around the grassy promenade, kite flying, cricket, or photo sessions with friends or family. This iconic open space has also been known to host concerts featuring local artists and an array of festivals each year.
Aside from its visual beauty, Galle Face Green offers other attractions such as:
- An amusement park recently upgraded with modern amenities such as water slides, trampolines, and roller coasters.
- A large playground area with facilities suitable for adults too.
- Beach volleyball courts.
- Multiple eateries, including popular street food spots.
- Public toilets and showers.
- Plenty of geocache locations to discover.
- Several monuments and much more!
With its endless list of attractions, this busy urban oasis will offer something to everyone who visits it.
Gangaramaya Temple
Gangaramaya Temple is one of the major attractions in Colombo and a popular place for locals and tourists. Founded by Ven. H. Sri Wimalarathana in 1898, Gangaramaya Temple is a Buddhist temple located on the banks of Beira Lake in the heart of Colombo. The temple complex includes several impressive structures, including the main temple, a sacred Bodhi tree, an educational center, a library, a museum, and a relic chamber.
The grand main temple building houses many beautiful sculptures and statues depicting various scenes from stories about Buddha’s life. Inside is an image house with several giant Buddhas greeting you from multiple directions and a multi-faith chapel with several altars dedicated to different religious denominations. Outside there are other unique attractions, such as a cleansing pond surrounded by small pagodas thought to be of ancient Indian origin and the giant stone figure of Migara Eatu, which can be seen at the top of its shrine at the entrance to the Gangaramaya compound.
Aside from its religious significance, Gangaramaya Temple also provides visitors with glimpses into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage through its many events, such as dance performances and traditional rituals held throughout the year. In addition, visitors can participate in traditional blessings such as pirith chanting or sign up for special ceremonies held during festive seasons like Vesak (Buddha’s birthday). There are also museums displaying collections related to Buddhist art and iconic structures like temples depicting ancient South Asian architecture within the Gangaramaya compound that attracts many photographers worldwide.
National Museum of Colombo
The National Museum of Colombo is a must-see destination for travelers to Colombo, Sri Lanka. Founded in 1877, this museum houses artworks over 400 years old, including ancient paintings and sculptures, coins, jewelry, and more. The museum collection also displays sacred relics – including the Buddha’s tooth – rescued from demolished and neglected temples across the country. In addition to its permanent display, the museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing artists worldwide, focusing on architecture and world cultures.
Visitors enter through a grand stone archway located in front of peaceful gardens. Inside lies an intricate display of sculptures and artifacts that paint a picture of Sri Lankan culture with exquisite detail going back centuries. Visitors can observe collections from Chinese porcelain to Dutch furniture as they marvel at Sri Lanka’s extensive history showcased in the National Museum’s beautifully preserved objects. This magnificent structure is an educational and eye-catching destination for travelers exploring cultural diversity in Colombo city.
Food & Drink
Colombo, Sri Lanka, is a lively city full of things to do and places to explore. With its bustling streets, bustling markets, and authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, it is a destination that any foodie should put on their list.
In this section, we will discuss the best places to try the local food and drinks of Colombo, Sri Lanka. From fantastic street food to high-end restaurants, there is something for everyone in this bustling city. So let’s dive in:
Ministry Of Crab
Ministry of Crab, located in the central business district of Colombo, is a renowned seafood restaurant founded by two award-winning Sri Lankan chefs and cricket captains, Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara. The establishment’s name comes from their signature dish – boiled Malaysian mud crabs, which range from one kilogram to three kilograms.
Ministry of Crab serves your crab boiled and served with garlic butter or chili garlic sauce. All crabs are cooked according to traditional Sri Lankan recipes, creating a unique flavor that will tantalize your taste buds! The cooks also offer ‘crab masala‘ – a fiery mix of chili powder, coriander, and other spices. The menu also offers fish curries, Garlic Prawns, Squid Fry, and Crispy Fried Fish – perfect for those looking for seafood but not necessarily crab.
Their drinks menu boasts an extensive selection: everything from freshly squeezed juices to exotic cocktails at reasonable prices – ideal accompaniments for the savory and spicy dishes. Ministry of Crab is also licensed; imported wine labels are available to pair with dishes from their recently expanded menu.
There is an outdoor terrace where guests can sit back and enjoy their meals, and the laid-back ambiance Ministry of Crab offers adds to the restaurant’s charm. With its outstanding standards in food presentation, combined with authentic cuisine made with freshly caught seafood ingredients – Ministry Of Crab promises an unforgettable dining experience!
Mi-Gan
Mi-Gan is a popular multi-cuisine restaurant in Colombo, Sri Lanka, offering traditional Sri Lankan dishes and an array of global cuisines. However, many visitors to Colombo swear by the delectable signature dishes of the restaurant: Soli Curry and Fish Ambulthial. Both dishes are made with freshly prepared coconut milk with native herbs and spices.
Furthermore, Mi-Gan’s signature Faluda ice cream is a must-try while you’re in the city – it’s one of the best faludas around!
The ambiance at Mi-Gan is quaint and relaxed yet sophisticated. The decor is very tasteful and refreshingly modern, making it a great place for big groups or quiet dinners for two.
Whether you’re looking for an indulgent evening meal or an after-work snack, Mi-Gan has you covered! Their bar menu comprises classic cocktails and exciting mixology styles from expert bartenders on-site. With excellent service and food, Mi-Gan should not be missed when visiting Colombo!
The Lagoon
The Lagoon, located in Colombo, Sri Lanka, is home to some of this magnificent country’s most amazing sensory experiences. Here, you can participate in activities such as leisurely boat rides on shimmering azure waters and enjoy the spectacular views from various eclectic seafood restaurants scattered around the Lagoon’s shoreline. Experience surreal sunsets that are nothing short of breathtaking and participate in fun activities such as visiting St. Anthony’s Church to make a wish or exploring the rich marine life with an array of snorkeling and water sports offerings.
The Lagoon also boasts a range of eateries that offer local and international cuisines, ranging from luxurious buffets to affordable street food. In addition, a stop at The Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct ensures you have something to take home as souvenirs or gifts.
Whether it’s soaking up the atmosphere of this enthralling destination or just indulging your taste buds at its myriad culinary offerings – The Lagoon has something for everyone!
Entertainment
Colombo, Sri Lanka, is a great place to experience various entertainment activities. From theme parks to theatre performances, there are a variety of activities and attractions to keep you entertained.
This section will explore how you can have fun while in Colombo. So, let’s explore the entertainment options available in Colombo, Sri Lanka:
Lighthouse Cinema
For a fantastic movie experience, the Lighthouse Cinema, located in Colombo, Sri Lanka, is a great option. With eight screens and more than 800 seats, it offers a variety of movie experiences for locals and visitors alike. In addition, all theatres are air-conditioned and equipped with digital sound systems with high-quality 3D projection. The Lighthouse Cinema also offers an eco-friendly seating plan with cushioned seating and wheelchair-accessible seating.
The range of movies available includes international blockbusters and locally produced movies. The cinema also features regular film festivals to celebrate new or classic films from around the world, allowing viewers to experience something different or inspiring without leaving Sri Lanka. Aside from the competitions, workshops, and seminars on filmmaking are other interesting events held at the Lighthouse Cinema. It is an ideal spot for movie lovers in Colombo!
Escape Colombo
Escape Colombo is a unique destination that is unique to Sri Lanka. It serves as an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the island’s vibrant landscapes through various activities like leisurely walking trails, immersive nature learning, and engaging bird-watching. From fun rides to luxurious greenery, there are many ways for visitors to enjoy the simple pleasures of nature.
For those looking for a break from their daily routine and want to go off the beaten track, Escape Colombo offers various off-site excursions where visitors can explore more of the natural elements in Sri Lanka. For instance, whale watching on Mirissa Harbour or Rekawa Beach and hiking in Horton Plains National Park or Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve. For a more educational experience, Escape Colombo also offers interactive lectures by flora and fauna experts and archaeological tours around important heritage sites like Yttara Kalavetiya Temple and St Peters Church.
Apart from these activities, Escape Colombo offers local artisan experiences such as pottery classes with renowned artists at the National Crafts Council or crafting unique jewelry with traditional artisans in Nallur Village. There are even culinary experiences where tourists can get hands-on teaching in traditional Sri Lankan cooking methods taught by professionals at regional restaurants or home cooking workshops run by expert cooks using locally sourced ingredients. With so much to do and explore, Escape Colombo will surely provide unforgettable experiences for all its visitors!
Sri Lanka National Aquarium
Sri Lanka National Aquarium is located in the heart of Colombo and is one of South Asia’s largest and most impressive public aquariums. An educational visit for all ages, the aquarium houses over 300 species of tropical fish and marine life from coral reefs and offshore habitats. The displays are designed to inform visitors about the natural environment, conservation practices, and how human activities affect aquatic life.
Highlights include a large reef aquarium with various reef fish, eels, corals, and other species from the Indo-Pacific Ocean and one of the largest collections of freshwater fish in such a small area. Other impressive attractions include:
- An artificial beach
- Walks through thematic exhibits such as mangrove habitats, rivers, and an aviary showcasing various species of colorful birds.
- In interactive sessions such as Turtle Oxygen Bar & Café, you can observe turtles fed by aquarists while sipping on an energizing drink!
- Dive shows featuring professional divers interacting with marine animals kept in freshwater tanks.
Experience firsthand all that Sri Lanka National Aquarium has to offer!