Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant city that is rich in culture, history, and beauty. From ancient temples to modern shopping malls, Colombo has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out or an exciting nightlife, Colombo has it all. Here are the top 20 places to see in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
1. Galle Face Green: Galle Face Green is a large public space located in the heart of Colombo. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean, a great place to relax, and plenty of activities. During the day, you can take a stroll along the promenade, enjoy a picnic, or take a ride on the ferris wheel. At night, the green transforms into a lively night market, with food stalls, live music, and plenty of entertainment.
2. Gangaramaya Temple: Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most important temples in Colombo. Located in the heart of the city, the temple is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The temple is home to a variety of beautiful statues and artwork, and the grounds are filled with lush gardens and peaceful ponds. The temple also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music and dance performances.
3. National Museum of Colombo: The National Museum of Colombo is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and culture of Sri Lanka. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and artworks from the country’s past, including sculptures, paintings, and ancient coins. The museum also hosts regular exhibitions and events.
4. Viharamahadevi Park: Viharamahadevi Park is a large public park located in the heart of Colombo. The park is filled with lush green gardens, ponds, and fountains, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.
5. Beira Lake: Beira Lake is a large freshwater lake located in the heart of Colombo. The lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and bird watching. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes located around the lake, making it a great spot for a romantic evening.
6. Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct: The Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct is a historic shopping area located in the heart of Colombo. The area is filled with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great spot to spend an afternoon. The area also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music and dance performances.
7. Colombo Fort: Colombo Fort is a historic fort located in the heart of Colombo. The fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and is now a popular tourist destination. The fort is filled with a variety of attractions, including a museum, a lighthouse, and a clock tower.
8. Colombo Lighthouse: The Colombo Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in the heart of Colombo. The lighthouse was built in the 19th century and is now a popular tourist destination. The lighthouse offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding areas.
9. Independence Square: Independence Square is a large public square located in the heart of Colombo. The square is home to a variety of monuments, including the Independence Memorial Hall and the National War Memorial. The square also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.
10. Pettah Market: Pettah Market is a bustling market located in the heart of Colombo. The market is filled with a variety of shops, stalls, and restaurants, making it a great spot to find souvenirs and local delicacies. The market also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including music and dance performances.
11. Colombo Zoo: Colombo Zoo is a popular zoo located in the heart of Colombo. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, and more. The zoo also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including educational programs and conservation initiatives.
12. National Art Gallery: The National Art Gallery is a popular art museum located in the heart of Colombo. The museum houses a collection of artworks from Sri Lanka and around the world, including sculptures, paintings, and photographs. The museum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including exhibitions and workshops.
13. Colombo Racecourse: The Colombo Racecourse is a popular horse racing track located in the heart of Colombo. The track hosts a variety of horse races throughout the year, including the prestigious Sri Lanka Derby. The track also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.
14. Mount Lavinia Beach: Mount Lavinia Beach is a popular beach located in the suburbs of Colombo. The beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The beach also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including music and dance performances.
15. Dehiwala Zoo: Dehiwala Zoo is a popular zoo located in the suburbs of Colombo. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, and more. The zoo also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including educational programs and conservation initiatives.
16. ColomboNational Museum: The Colombo National Museum is a popular museum located in the heart of Colombo. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and artworks from Sri Lanka and around the world, including sculptures, paintings, and photographs. The museum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including exhibitions and workshops.
17. Colombo Harbour: Colombo Harbour is a large port located in the heart of Colombo. The harbour is a popular spot for fishing and boating, and also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including music and dance performances.
18. Dutch Period Museum: The Dutch Period Museum is a popular museum located in the heart of Colombo. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and artworks from the Dutch period in Sri Lanka, including sculptures, paintings, and photographs. The museum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including exhibitions and workshops.
19. Galle Face Hotel: The Galle Face Hotel is a historic hotel located in the heart of Colombo. The hotel was built in the 19th century and is now a popular tourist destination. The hotel offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding areas.
20. Colombo Botanical Gardens: The Colombo Botanical Gardens are a popular destination located in the heart of Colombo. The gardens are filled with a variety of plants and trees, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. The gardens also host a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.