If you were thinking about skipping Colombo upon entering Sri Lanka, you may want to consider spending at least a few days in the island’s capital. I often hear a handful of people say visiting capital cities is “boring,” however I always find a reason to make my time worthwhile and I have discovered there is ALWAYS something to do. This includes Colombo.
In a nutshell, I would say Colombo offers the rich culture of the Sri Lankan people and the diversity of British, Dutch, and Portuguese influence as you explore the city – the architecture and historical sites – plus, there is an array of delicious foods and shopping! You will definitely find something to do! Furthermore, the beach at Mt. Lavinia is only 30 minutes away if you want to escape the crowds, traffic, and car honks – the hustle and bustle! As a nomad that had a significant stay in Colombo, here are my highlights and quick tips of the city.
GANGARAMAYA TEMPLE
Visit one of Colombo’s most important temples – Gangaramaya – and pay respects to Buddha. The temple features a library, museum, and endless statues; there is even a (fake) elephant to greet you! After, you can find Beira Lake just a few short minutes away on foot.
Tip: If you happen to visit a temple during the monthly Poya holiday, the full moon day, you can experience the cultural traditions of this Buddhist holiday. The temples will be crowded for the celebration, and some banks, restaurants, and stores are closed around the city as well.
SEEMA MALAKA TEMPLE
Take a walk around Beira Lake. The temple on the lake, Seema Malaka, looks beautiful no matter what time of the day. As you circle the lake, take a break and sip on some Ceylon tea at the popular “Tea Breeze” café, which opens its windows to the water.
TOWN HALL
Visit the Town Hall and admire the neoclassical architecture. As you walk around the building, turn around and you will notice Viharamahadevi Park as it faces the building.
VIHARAMAHADEVI PARK
Viharamahadevi Park is the largest and oldest park in Colombo. Relax with the sound of the fountains, take pictures at the miniature zoo, and see the Buddha statue. You can also find the National Museum next to the park.
INDEPENDENCE SQUARE
Visit Independence Square. You can take a walk around Independence Memorial Hall and visit the small, yet informative Independence Memorial Museum. Learn about Sri Lanka’s heroes and independence from British rule.
Tip: Around the corner, you will find Arcade Independence Square. Arcade is a shopping complex that features shops, restaurants, and a cinema. There is a ludicrous history to the renovated building as it was originally constructed as an asylum!
DUTCH HOSPITAL
Take a break at Dutch Hospital for some tea, drinks, gift shopping, or some grub. The Ministry of Crab Restaurant is very popular there, so make some reservations and try it.
GOOD MARKET
Check out the Good Market every Saturday at Racecourse Grounds. They sell natural, organic, and handmade products. You can enjoy some music, henna, massage, and other entertainment on site as well. The Good Market Shop is open everyday if you can’t make it on Saturday and want to take home some treats.
PETTAH MARKET
If you want more open markets, Pettah is a whole other animal! Upon the entrance, you’ll see Khan Clock Tower and immediately you will see the crowds. Check out the numerous stalls of fresh fruits and vegetables, clothes, accessories, electronics…and the list goes on. Prepare yourself because it will be crazy and wild (so come early)!
TUK TUKS
Hail a tuk tuk or download the PickMe app to book your transportation. Only ride in a metered tuk tuk unless you are familiar with the cost and want to bargain with the driver. On another note, Uber is available.
NIGHTLIFE
For Nightlife, head over to Silk Nightclub. My favorite was Silk’s Latin Night on Thursdays where they played Spanish hits and also a mix of hip hop. Ozo Hotel’s Rooftop and Bar is also another good hangout spot.
FORT RAILWAY STATION
Take the train to a new destination at Fort Railway Station. It’s better to reserve seats far in advance for first class, however, second class also promises a seat while third class keeps you on your toes.
CITY BUSES
Don’t be afraid to take the bus. Try your first trip along the central area of Galle Road. Be ready for abrupt stops that make you jump and giggle at the same time, and Sri Lankan music that sounds like Spanish cumbias. While you try to figure out whether the ride is fun or dangerous, you feel safe knowing that Buddha or Jesus is around.;)
GALLE FACE GREEN
Take a stroll or spend a day flying a kite at Galle Face. You can buy your kite on the spot and munch on the many traditional snacks available by the water. Enjoy the views of the waves since you can’t swim in them!
SOUVENIR SHOPS
Take your time to scope Galle Road. It’s huge but there are tons of shops, malls, and hotels. Visit Barefoot to get some high quality Sri Lankan crafts and gifts. The shop also features Barefoot Cafe that holds special events like quiz night and live jazz. My favorite souvenir shop is Nikko House of Gifts which is also nearby; Manager Rashan is very welcoming and they have a precious puppy which is a great reason just to visit.
Here’s another tip: If you see something you like, buy your gifts and souvenirs in Colombo! They have so much variety and the prices will explode once you head to the tourist areas around the island. Other notable souvenir shops include Lakpahana and Laksala. The malls, House of Fashions and Majestic City, also have great products.
COLOMBO JEWELLERY STORES
Splurge on emeralds, rubies, and sapphires for yourself or your significant other at Colombo Jewellery Stores. I like the main store on Galle Road.
SIDDHALEPA SPA
Visit an ayurvedic spa and try the shirodhara ritual, an ancient Ayurveda ritual where warm oils are poured on the “third eye.” It promotes wellness and stress relief. Siddhalepa spa is a good place to start since they have a long history of Ayurveda experience.
SPA CEYLON
You can also head to Spa Ceylon for a luxurious Ayurveda experience. I recommend the main store on Galle Road. It is a one-stop-shop with all range of products and spa services, since their smaller boutiques are limited. The products do cost an extra few dollars (compared to the smaller Spa Ceylon boutiques) due to the offered variety, but it will save you time!
ASTANKA YOGA MANDIR STUDIO
Have a yoga day at Astanka Yoga Mandir. This is my favorite yoga spot because it feels authentic and they have the best prices in the city. Read more about it here.
ODEL STORES
Stop at Odel in Colombo 7 for some retail therapy. They offer fashionable clothes, accessories, and souvenirs. There is also an abundance of fast food, snacks, and deli restaurants at this particular Odel location. The money exchange office on site is waiting for you.
UPALI’S RESTAURANT
Oh…and a few minutes walk from Odel is a popular Sri Lankan restaurant called Upali’s. It is popular with locals and tourists.
CRESCAT MALL FOOD COURT
Try the tradional kotthu dish from Crescat Mall food court. My favorite restaurant there is Claypot O Curry because you get a huge plate of kotthu that is shareable and costs less than Rs. 600 or USD 4.
COLPETTY MARKET
Stop by Colpetty Market for some fresh fruits and vegetables. Watermelon, papaya, mangosteens, dragon fruit, and avocado are my favorites. Sri Lanka has some of the best fruit I’ve ever tasted in my life (and I am not exaggerating!).
MT. LAVINIA
Take a tuk tuk or bus to Mt. Lavinia to explore the beach at only 30 minutes away from Colombo. I recommend staying at Mt. Lavinia Hotel if you prefer luxury accommodation and The Vintage Hostel if you are looking for a welcoming and fun stay.
Tip: Other top accommodation choices within Colombo include hotels – Cinnamon Grand, Cinnamon Lakeside, Kingsbury Hotel, Ozo Hotel – and hostels – Colombo City Hostel, Clock Inn Colombo, CityRest Fort…
COLOMBO CITY SIGHTSEEING TOURS
If you want a comfortable ride around the city, join the Colombo City Sightseeing bus tour.
COUCHSURFING COLOMBO
Laslty, join a Couchsurfing (CS) Colombo event at couchsurfing.com. CS in Colombo is very active and the group is eager to help you explore and hang out.
…And that’s all folks (Bugs Bunny voice ;)!
There is a lot more to add to the list, but these are my memorable favorites. Visiting Colombo will give you a cultural sense of the teardrop island that has a lot to offer. Sri Lanka is a very special place – Colombo is just the start!