Things To Do
in Colombo
Colombo, the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka, serves as a vibrant blend of modern urban life and colonial buildings, reflecting its rich history and diverse cultural influences. It's a lively metropolis that offers a mix of lush gardens, historical museums, and colorful streets, alongside an expanding skyline of high-rises and commercial developments.
The city's cosmopolitan atmosphere is enhanced by its scenic waterfront, diverse cuisine, and bustling markets, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking a blend of tradition and modernity.
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Suba dawasak" - Good day
- "Aparada" - Sorry
- "Hondai" - Good
- "Bohoma istuti" - Thank you very much
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the National Museum of Colombo to learn about Sri Lankan history and culture. Enjoy a stroll in the nearby Viharamahadevi Park, a lush green space perfect for relaxation.
Head to the bustling Pettah Market for some local shopping and street food. Discover the striking Yong Yi Buddhist Temple, adorned with beautiful architecture.
Enjoy a sunset stroll along Galle Face Green, where locals come to unwind. Savor a delicious dinner at a seaside restaurant with ocean views.
Start your day with a visit to Mount Lavinia Beach for a refreshing swim and sunbathing. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café.
Take a scenic walk along the coast, stopping by the historic Mount Lavinia Hotel. Try out water sports like jet skiing or paddleboarding.
Delight in fresh seafood at a beach restaurant while watching the waves. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife at nearby bars or head back to Colombo for a relaxing evening.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse influences from different communities
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
- Delicious and varied cuisine, including seafood and local dishes
- Vibrant markets and shopping opportunities
- Friendly and hospitable locals
- Growing economy and opportunities for business and investment
- Pleasant tropical climate
- Proximity to other tourist destinations in Sri Lanka
- Traffic congestion can be a major issue in the city
- Poverty and inequality may be visible in certain areas
- Seasonal weather can lead to heavy rainfall and flooding
- Public infrastructure may not be as developed as in other cities
- Challenges related to waste management
- Political stability can be a concern, impacting tourism and business
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- In some areas, crime rates can be a concern
Best Activities in Colombo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely stroll and relax amidst the greenery of this beautiful public park located in the heart of Colombo.
Visit this picturesque park and temple complex situated by Beira Lake, offering a peaceful and scenic outdoor experience.
Experience the lively atmosphere of this urban park alongside the coastline, popular for strolls, picnics, and enjoying stunning sunsets.
Tours
Uncover the best of Colombo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Colombo
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular ocean-side urban park offering great views of the sunset, coastal skyline, and the Indian Ocean.
A picturesque lake in the heart of Colombo surrounded by walking paths and local flora, offering serene views and photo opportunities.
A lush public park featuring beautiful gardens, peaceful walking trails, and scenic spots for capturing the beauty of nature.
An elegant rooftop venue providing stunning panoramic views of the city skyline, ocean, and harbor, ideal for capturing breathtaking urban landscapes.
Food in Colombo
Colombo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A type of pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. Try them at Hopper restaurants like 'Jinadasa' and 'Green Cabin.'
Must-Try!
A popular street food made of chopped roti, vegetables, and a choice of chicken, beef, or mutton, seasoned with spices. It's a must-try at Galle Face Green or Nana's.
A Dutch Burgher dish featuring rice cooked in stock, accompanied by meatballs, frikkadels, and a side of plantains. Get an authentic experience at The Dutch Burgher Union.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Colombo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A community-focused market offering a variety of organic produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats like samosas, kottu, and fresh juices.
A bustling market filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks. It's a great spot to savor seasonal fruits and pick up local treats like achcharu (pickles) and vadai.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Colombo, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them with appropriate titles and using polite language.
It is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and during cultural events in Colombo.
Greetings are an important part of Sri Lankan culture. It is customary to greet others with a smile and a nod of the head, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Colombo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Colombo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Colombo, Sri Lanka, but it is customary to leave a 10% gratuity at restaurants and for other services such as hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers.
Cash is widely used for transactions in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and some shops, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially when shopping in local markets or smaller establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Colombo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with dry and warm weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Hot and dry weather, great for beach activities and festivals such as the Sinhala and Tamil New Year.
Intermittent rainfall with lower tourist crowds, good for budget travelers and experiencing local culture and traditions.
Increased rainfall, but still possible to visit. Good for those looking for quieter time and better deals on accommodations.
Colombo at Night
Hiking in Colombo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A lush forest area ideal for hiking, offering scenic trails and the opportunity to explore diverse flora and fauna.
While a bit farther from Colombo, it offers numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views of tea plantations and mountains.
A popular hiking destination known for its panoramic views; suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its biodiversity, offering well-marked paths and guided tours for nature lovers.
Tread these serene trails surrounded by local wildlife and beautiful landscapes, perfect for a day trip from Colombo.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Colombo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Colombo by plane.
The primary international airport serving Colombo, Sri Lanka. It is located in Katunayake, approximately 35 kilometers north of Colombo.
An international airport located in Mattala, about 240 kilometers south of Colombo. It was opened in 2013 to promote tourism and cargo.
Located in Tiruchirappalli, India, it is approximately 400 kilometers from Colombo and serves as a hub for flights heading to Sri Lanka.
About 500 kilometers from Colombo, this airport in Chennai, India, connects numerous international flights and is a key gateway to South Asia.
Located in Hyderabad, India, approximately 1,000 kilometers from Colombo, it is an important international airport with many connecting flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Sri Lanka, comprising approximately 74% of the population.
The second largest ethnic group, primarily consisting of Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils, making up around 20% of the population.
An ethnic group of the Muslim community in Sri Lanka, accounting for about 9-10% of the population.
A community of mixed European descent, primarily descendants of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, representing a small percentage of the population.
Includes various smaller groups such as Malays, indigenous Vedda, and expatriates, making up around 1-2% of the population.
The Soul of Colombo
Discover the essence of Colombo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Colombo, Sri Lanka, with a rich history and a passionate fan base. The country has achieved notable success in international cricket, including winning the Cricket World Cup in 1996.
Rugby is also very popular in Sri Lanka, particularly in Colombo. The sport has a strong following and several clubs and schools participate in national and international competitions.
Soccer, known as football in most parts of the world, has a growing popularity in Colombo. Local and international matches attract a significant audience, and there are various leagues and tournaments.
Basketball has gained traction in Colombo, especially among the youth. School teams often compete, and there are local leagues that help promote the sport.
Tennis is popular among many in Colombo, with several clubs and facilities available for both casual and competitive players. Local tournaments are held regularly.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colombo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Colombo has a variety of restaurants and cafes offering delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes. Restaurants like 'Shanmugas' and 'Agra' cater to these dietary preferences with flavorful and varied menus.
While gluten-free awareness is growing, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly at restaurants. 'Semondu' and 'Momo's by Ruvi' are known for their gluten-free offerings.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Colombo with these cultural adventures.
