Best things to do in Colombo
Find out more about those top places in Colombo
Colombo Travel Guide: Spices, Street Life, and a Seriously Old Soul
Welcome to Colombo, the vibrant, beating heart of Sri Lanka. As the country’s largest city and its financial and cultural powerhouse, Colombo is where ancient history and modern chaos live in perfect harmony—think tuk-tuks zipping past colonial buildings while monks scroll Instagram (probably).
Believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Colombo has been around for over 2,000 years. Back in the day, its natural harbor made it a hotspot for Roman, Greek, and Arab traders who swung by not just for cinnamon and elephants, but for the primo business vibes. Talk about a timeless LinkedIn network.
Things to Do in Colombo: A Little Bit of Everything
Let’s get this out of the way: Colombo is not just a stopover. This city has layers—like a well-spiced biryani—and once you start exploring, you’ll find a mix of colonial charm, seaside breezes, bustling markets, and surprises around every corner.
Here’s your Colombo travel guide to what not to miss:
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Galle Face Green: This seaside promenade is where locals gather for sunsets, kite-flying, and snacking on spicy street food. Try the isso wade (prawn fritters) but be warned: your taste buds may never recover from the heat.
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Pettah Market: A chaotic and colorful market maze that feels like a treasure hunt crossed with a cardio workout. You’ll find everything here—sarongs, electronics, exotic fruits, and maybe a parrot (not kidding).
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Gangaramaya Temple: This is one of the city's top attractions, blending Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture into one spiritual smoothie. Bonus: there’s a museum inside with some delightfully random items, including vintage cars and antique spectacles.
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Colombo National Museum: A must-visit for history buffs or anyone trying to understand Sri Lanka beyond beach resorts. The building itself looks like it belongs in a Jane Austen novel, and inside it’s packed with artifacts from ancient kingdoms.
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Independence Memorial Hall: Grand, historic, and perfect for your “deep-in-thought” Instagram pose. It’s a peaceful place to reflect or just rest your feet after too much sightseeing.
Top Places to Visit in Colombo for Culture and Food
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Old Dutch Hospital Precinct: No medical treatment here—just trendy cafes, bars, and boutique shops in a restored colonial complex. Great for people-watching and sipping overpriced coffee with zero regrets.
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Viharamahadevi Park: Colombo’s biggest park, complete with golden Buddha, shady trees, and the occasional selfie-hunting peacock. Great for a break from the bustle.
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Mount Lavinia Beach: Technically just outside the city, but worth mentioning. It’s the go-to beach escape for both locals and travelers. Think street corn, sunbathing, and sunset cocktails—just add flip-flops.
Fun Fact Break (Because Why Not?)
Did you know Colombo was once ruled by the Portuguese, the Dutch, AND the British? The city has seen more costume changes than a Bollywood awards show. And it still manages to keep its cool.
Final Word: Colombo Deserves More Love
Too many travelers rush through Colombo on their way to Sri Lanka’s beaches or tea plantations—but that’s like ordering a curry and skipping the naan. The city is packed with sightseeing opportunities, historical depth, delicious chaos, and a street food scene that punches well above its weight.
So if you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure Colombo is more than just your landing spot. With so many things to do, places to visit, and top attractions to explore, this city offers a crash course in the country’s past, present, and slightly spicy future.
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National Museum
Usually the first stop for anybody visiting Sri Lanka for the first time – the National Museum is the largest Museum in the country and was specifically established to display Sri Lanka’s glorious history. Initially called the Colombo museum, it was built in 1876 and founded by Sir William Henry Gregory the Governor of Sri Lanka. The ever expanding Museum contains some of Sri Lanka’s most important artifacts including the throne and crown of the Kandyan Monarchs, a collection of antique demon masks, cravings, and weapons.
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Fort Area
Known as the landing site of the Portuguese when they first came to Sri Lanka, the Fort Area is arguably the most beautiful part of the Colombo. Surrounded perfectly with Precolonial buildings, churches and statues - it remains the best place to go for an evening stroll. The highlights of the Fort Area are the Old Galle Buck Lighthouse where you can find old cannons and The Clock Tower.
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Gangaramaya Temple
Often described as the most sacred place in Colombo, the Gangaramaya Temple is one of many Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. The 19th century temple is arguably the most architectural pleasing building you with ever visit with is mix of various architectural styles featuring Indian, Chinese and Thai designs. Run by monks, the temple consists of several other buildings including a library and a museum. It does not only serve as a worship center but it is also a center of learning. The best time to visit is during the flamboyant Vesak Celebrations.
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Beira Lake / Seema Malaka Shrine
Right in the center of Colombo is the Beira Lake, it was one of the most important means of transportation during Sri Lanka’s colonial era. Built by the Portuguese who gave it the name “Beira”, it was constructed to safeguard Colombo from enemies. The lake has a variety of flora and fauna presence and you are most likely to see pelicans, storks and fish. However, it is primarily known as the location of the Seema Malaka shrine. The Shrine was built by Sri Lankan Muslim businessman, S.H. Moosajee and it is mostly used for resting and meditation rather than for worship.
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Old Dutch Hospital
After touring around the city of Colombo, the best place to relax is the Dutch Hospital. Considered to be the oldest structure in the Colombo Fort Area, the 1600s building was previously used as a health center to take care of foreign officers and staff during the nation’s colonial era. Presently it is a heritage building and features several restaurants, cafes and shops. It is the best place for visitors to try out local drinks and food.
