Things To Do
in Kolonnawa
Kolonnawa is a suburban area located in the Western Province of Sri Lanka, known for its vibrant local culture and close proximity to the bustling capital city of Colombo. This area offers a mix of urban living with traditional Sri Lankan lifestyle, featuring local markets, temples, and parks. Kolonnawa is characterized by its friendly residents and a strong sense of community, making it an intriguing destination for those looking to experience local life.
Its strategic location makes it a great base for exploring both the city and the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kolonnawa Temple, where you can experience local religious practices and architecture.
Head to the Kolonnawa market for a taste of local produce and crafts, and enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery serving traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
Take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to a nearby park for relaxation.
Begin with a hike at the nearby Diyatha Uyana, a beautiful park with walking paths and a lake, perfect for a peaceful morning.
Visit the local botanical gardens to appreciate the diverse flora and take plenty of photographs.
Wrap up your day with a casual dinner at a popular street food spot, experiencing the flavors of Kolonnawa before heading back.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at Local Restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🍴Street Food Snack | $0.50-2 |
| 🚌Local Bus Fare | $0.30 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel Night | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich local culture and friendly residents.
- Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
- Proximity to Colombo for easy access to urban amenities.
- Can be crowded and noisy, particularly near markets.
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
- Public transport can be challenging for navigation.
- "Ayubowan" - Hello / May you live long
- "Meka kiyanna" - Please say this
- "Suwanda" - Thank you
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Mama vegetarian" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Kolonnawa
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic park featuring beautiful landscapes, lakes, and walking paths, ideal for nature photography.
Capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of various temples scattered throughout Kolonnawa.
The lake in Diyatha Uyana offers stunning sunset views, perfect for evening photography.
Food in Kolonnawa
Kolonnawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular street food made from chopped roti, vegetables, and meat, stir-fried on a hot grill.
Must-Try!
A staple dish made from lentils, cooked with spices and coconut milk.
A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour, often served with an egg or sweet toppings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks.
Numerous vendors selling quick bites like samosas, kottu, and fresh juices, perfect for on-the-go meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always remove your shoes before entering a temple and dress modestly.
A simple nod or 'Ayubowan' (meaning 'may you live long') is a common greeting.
Eat with your right hand and never point your feet at people or religious artifacts.
Safety
Tipping in Kolonnawa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants; a standard tip is around 10%.
Cash is widely used, but some places accept credit cards; it's good to carry small notes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities.
Heavy rains can be expected; plan indoor activities and check weather forecasts.
Weather can be unpredictable with occasional showers; pack accordingly.
Temperatures are milder, making it a pleasant time for sightseeing.
Kolonnawa at Night
Hiking in Kolonnawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short drive from Kolonnawa, this reserve features several trails through lush greenery and is suitable for nature lovers.
A coastal trail that offers stunning views of the ocean and is ideal for a leisurely hike.
Airports
How to reach Kolonnawa by plane.
Located about 30 km from Kolonnawa, this is the main international airport serving Sri Lanka, offering flights to various destinations worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Sri Lanka, they have a rich cultural heritage and are predominantly Buddhist.
Another significant ethnic group, mainly residing in the northern and eastern provinces, with a strong cultural identity and Hindu traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Sri Lanka, with many local teams and matches drawing large crowds.
Football is also widely played, especially among the youth, with local tournaments and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kolonnawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; just ask the staff for recommendations.
Sri Lankan food can be spicy; it's advisable to specify your spice preference when ordering.