Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka's largest city and commercial capital, sits along the Indian Ocean coast. The city's varied cultural influences are visible in its temples, mosques, and churches. You can visit the Gangaramaya Temple with its unique architectural blend, stroll along Galle Face Green for ocean views, or taste spicy Sri Lankan dishes at local eateries. The busy Pettah market area gives you a glimpse into everyday local life.

Exploring Religious Sites

Colombo's religious buildings reflect the city's multicultural makeup. At the Gangaramaya Temple, you'll see a mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architectural styles. In the Pettah area, you can't miss the red and white Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque. For a look at colonial-era Christianity, visit the Wolvendaal Church, one of Sri Lanka's oldest Protestant churches.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

The Colombo National Museum, housed in a colonial-era building, showcases Sri Lankan history and art. You can view ancient artifacts and the regalia of Kandyan kings. To learn about the country's colonial past, visit the Dutch Period Museum in a 17th-century Dutch governor's residence. Art lovers can explore the Sapumal Foundation, which houses a collection of modern Sri Lankan art.

Green Spaces and Waterfront

Colombo has several parks and green areas despite its urban density. The Viharamahadevi Park, the city's oldest and largest, features a large Buddha statue and well-kept gardens. For an ocean-side walk, head to Galle Face Green, a long stretch of lawn facing the Indian Ocean. It's busy in the evenings when food vendors set up their stalls, attracting both locals and tourists.

Culinary Scene

Colombo's food options range from street food to upscale restaurants. You can try local specialties like kottu roti (chopped roti stir-fried with meat and vegetables) at street-side stalls or more refined versions at restaurants like Upali's. For a high-end dining experience, visit the Gallery Cafe, located in the former office of architect Geoffrey Bawa. You'll find Ceylon tea, a key Sri Lankan export, available throughout the city.

Getting Around

Colombo's traffic can be busy, but you have several transportation options. Tuk-tuks work well for short trips, but remember to agree on the fare before you start. For longer distances, you can use ride-hailing apps like Uber. The city has a bus network, but it might be confusing if you're not familiar with the routes. If you're staying for more than a day, you might want to hire a car with a driver for easier travel.

Day Trips from Colombo

You can use Colombo as a starting point to explore nearby attractions. The Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, a Buddhist temple about 10 km from the city center, is said to have been visited by the Buddha. Nature enthusiasts can visit the Talangama Wetland, a biodiversity-rich area just outside the city where you can observe various bird species. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, about 90 km from Colombo, is a popular but controversial destination where you can see Sri Lankan elephants up close.

Colonial Legacy and Modern Development

Colombo's history as a major port city under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule has influenced its architecture and culture. In the Fort area, once a colonial-era citadel, you'll find government buildings and offices in restored colonial structures. Recent years have seen the construction of high-rises and shopping complexes in parts of the city, creating a mix of old and new architecture.