Colombo Tourism

Colombo is characterized by beaches, Buddhist temples, sprawling gardens, and historical landmarks. Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka which is a very beautiful place. The capital is pretty clean and pleasant with many destinations to visit. Colombo is the city which offers many adventurous activities such as skydiving, surfing, diving and exploring the oceans deep inside and much more, hence Colombo tourism makes effort to develop the tourist activity in Colombo even better.

History of Colombo

Colombo was a trading port to Portuguese, British, and Dutch. In the 14th century, there was a traveler by the name of Ibn Battuta who visited Colombo and named it Kalanpu. Due to the location of Colombo and it being a port, Arabs started to settle in  Colombo for the purpose of trade. Since then, Colombo has gained a lot of popularity and is also one of the flourishing trading areas in Sri Lanka. 

Historical Places in Colombo

Colombo Fort Area: There is a lighthouse where you can climb and enjoy the nature’s amazing sight. There is actually no fort here, the city center is known as Fort Area.

Mount Lavinia: This residential neighborhood features some of the best spots to hang-out in the evening. The Mount Lavinia Beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Also, watching the sunset views here one of the top things to do in Colombo.

National Museum of Colombo: It is Sri Lanka’s largest museum, and was built in 1876. A peaceful courtyard surrounds the beautiful building that covers the National Museum. It was founded by a British Governor of Sri Lanka. There are various statues and exhibits and some antique items that were owned by a known family of Sri Lanka.

Delhiwala Zoo: The National Zoo of Sri Lanka is one of the main places to visit in Colombo. It houses more than 300 species of animals within its area of 10 hectares.

Memorial Hall: In 1948, Sri Lanka got its independence from Britain. The statue of Sri Lanka’s first president The Father of the Nation is in front of this monument. There are regular religious events and celebrations which occur here. One can enjoy the peace as there is no such crowd on regular days.

Wander the Markets

Pettah Market: This market is a very popular place which is near to the Fort area. If you love shopping with Colombo sightseeing, this is the place for you. You can get some good items at a very good price. This is a good place to pass the time as you will also see any religious any religious building and this overall makes it a good-to-go place. Eat some delicious local street food.

Galle Face Green: Perhaps one of the most popular tourist places in Colombo, it is a cluster of green lawns very next to some narrow beaches. Wind flows really fast and a great place to walk at night. Initially, it was made by the Dutch for some war strategy, but now this place is considered as perfect for running, kite flying, playing cricket and football. You will see lots of couples out what can be more romantic than watching the sunset at a beach point. Have some great spicy Indian food.

Some Religious places

Vihar Mahadevi Park: The biggest park of Colombo is also an attraction. This is not only a park as you can also enjoy water slides, café, stalls, and large playground with a small aquarium. If you are travelling with your children, spend some quality time with your family or friends.

Gangaramaya Temple: Being the biggest temple of Buddha, it consists many buildings. You need some really good time as there are lots of things to see. There is Buddha made up of stone, silver, plastic, and gold. You can also donate one if you want to.

Shopping in Colombo

Shopping in Colombo can be enjoyed as there are so many amazing places to shop here. Some of the best things to buy from Colombo include handicrafts, handloom fabrics, jewelry and ceramics, leather products, antiques, and fine gems. Some of the best places for shopping here are:

Majestic City: This is a popular shopping mall in Colombo which is famous for buying of luxurious products. It is open every day from 09:00 am to 09:00 pm.

Paradise Road: If you are looking for souvenirs and affordable things to buy in Colombo, then we would suggest you go to Paradise Road for some amazing shopping experience in Colombo.

Arcade Independence Square: This is another great place for shopping in Colombo especially at night. There are so many branded stores here for a luxurious shopping experience. 

Nightlife in Colombo

Colombo being a metropolis is blessed with thrilling nightlife. Colombo tourism offers you with splendid nightlife experience. There are so many clubs, casinos and pubs here where people flock in large numbers to enjoy drinks and dance on the tunes to some of the famous songs. Playing casino is a famous activity in Colombo at night and therefore people in large number try their hands on this game to try out their luck. Also, you can visit Arcade Independence Square at night for shopping. 

At the center of the Sri Lanka, a huge lake named Beira serves its beauty. There is a small island in the middle of that lake. Some narrow canals connect the other lakes as well as with the Indian Ocean. The city has a rich colonial heritage. It is not the capital, but known as capital. Not only the beauty, it is a great place for shopping lovers. Enjoy the seafood in the Sri Lankan cuisine. It’s a great place and one must visit this place if he/she is traveling in Asia.