Colombo, the bustling capital of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant city full of contrasts – from its rich colonial heritage to its modern skyscrapers and busy streets. With a mix of cultures, religions, and traditions, the city offers an array of attractions and things to do for locals and tourists alike. If you’re planning a trip to Colombo, you’re in for a treat! In this post, we’ll highlight some of the best attractions and things to do in the city, whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or shopping. Get ready to explore the lively streets and soak up the unique atmosphere of Colombo!
The 3 Best Local Experiences in Colombo
- The True Essence of Colombo Private Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour
- Glimpse of Sri Lanka 05 Days Tour in Sri Lanka
- Colombo Private City Tour
The 3 Best Local Experiences in Colombo
1. The True Essence of Colombo Private Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour
Experience the true essence of Colombo with a private highlights and hidden gems tour. This tour takes you around the Sri Lankan capital on a tuk tuk ride to see some of the must-see landmarks such as Independence Square and Galle Face Green. Your local guide will share insights and details about the spots that you may not have known before. But that’s not all, get ready to also explore some of the city’s tucked-away gems such as markets and street snacks that many visitors tend to miss out on. With this tour, you’ll have a chance to truly experience Colombo like a local. The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, sweet exotic bananas tasting, and the flexibility to choose a departure time that suits you. Don’t settle for a pedestrian tour, choose this exciting private tour of Colombo and explore the city like never before!
2. Glimpse of Sri Lanka 05 Days Tour in Sri Lanka
Experience the best of Sri Lanka with the “Glimpse of Sri Lanka 05 Days Tour in Sri Lanka.” This tour offers a private vehicle with a chauffeur guide who speaks English, ensuring a comfortable and informative journey. The tour includes transportation, fuel, parking, highway tolls, all taxes and service charges, visa and related expenses, entrance fees, hotel accommodations, and meals.
The tour starts at Bandaranaike International Airport, where you will be picked up and taken to Pinnawala to visit the elephant orphanage. From there, you will proceed to Dambulla to see the famous cave temples before heading to Sigiriya to climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
The second day of the tour takes you to Minneriya National Park to see the elephants and other wildlife. Next, you will visit Polonnaruwa, an ancient city with impressive ruins, and the Medirigiriya Vatadage, a stupendous temple complex.
On day three, you will visit a spice garden and learn about the various spices that grow in Sri Lanka. Then, you will head to Kandy to see the Temple of the Tooth and watch a cultural dance performance.
Day four sees you heading to Colombo, with a stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage on the way. In Colombo, you will visit the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct and see some of the city’s many landmarks.
The tour ends on day five, with a drop-off at the airport. Plan to bring home lots of memories and photographs of Sri Lanka.
3. Colombo Private City Tour
Experience the vibrant city of Colombo through this 4-hour private city tour available in the morning or afternoon. Begin the journey with a visit to the National Museum, the oldest and largest museum in the country that houses an impressive collection of antiques. Afterward, head to the Petah Market, one of the largest and busiest markets in Colombo, where you can find a wide range of items from tropical fruits to freshly caught seafood and exquisite jewelry. Explore the Gangarama Temple located both on land and on a lake, housing a small yet impressive museum. Finally, relax and enjoy the stunning views of the Indian Ocean at the Galle Face Green, while admiring the abundant parkland the city has to offer. Don’t miss out on discovering the city’s colonial heritage and adding this experience to your list of top things to do in Colombo.
The Most Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists About Colombo
Colombo, the commercial capital and the largest city in Sri Lanka, is a popular tourist destination. It’s a bustling metropolis where you’ll find a mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial buildings. The city has a lot to offer, from historical sites to local markets, restaurants, and shopping centers. However, tourists often have questions about the city before they visit. We’ve put together some of the most frequently asked questions about Colombo to help you prepare for your trip.1. What is the best time to visit Colombo?
Colombo has a tropical climate, which means it’s hot and humid all year round. The peak season for tourism is from December to March when the weather is drier and cooler. However, if you don’t mind the heat and humidity, you can visit Colombo any time of the year. The monsoon season is usually from May to September, but showers can occur throughout the year.2. Is it safe to visit Colombo?
Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but as with any city, it’s important to take precautions. You should be vigilant when you’re out and about, especially at night. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables and keep an eye on your belongings at all times. If you’re traveling alone, it’s best to stick to busy areas and avoid walking alone at night.3. What is the main language spoken in Colombo?
The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil, but English is widely spoken in Colombo. Most signs and menus are in English, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.4. What currency is used in Colombo?
The currency used in Colombo is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). You can exchange currency at banks and exchange bureaus, or withdraw money from ATMs. Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you.5. How do I get around Colombo?
There are several ways to get around Colombo, including taxis, tuk-tuks, and buses. Taxis are the most convenient, but they can be expensive. Tuk-tuks are cheaper, but they can be noisy and uncomfortable, especially on long journeys. Buses are the cheapest option, but they can be crowded and confusing if you don’t know the routes.6. What are the top attractions in Colombo?
Colombo has a lot to offer in terms of attractions. Some of the top places to visit include:- The National Museum of Colombo
- Gangaramaya Temple
- Independence Memorial Hall
- Viharamahadevi Park
- The Old Parliament Building
- The Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct
- The Pettah Market
7. What should I wear when visiting Colombo?
Sri Lanka is a conservative country, so it’s important to dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites. Men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves, while women should cover their shoulders and wear long skirts or pants. It’s also a good idea to bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.8. What is the food like in Colombo?
Sri Lankan cuisine is spicy and flavorful, with a lot of seafood, rice, and vegetables. Some of the popular dishes include rice and curry, hoppers (a type of pancake), and kottu roti (a mix of roti bread, vegetables, and meat). Colombo also has a range of international restaurants, so you can find something to suit all tastes.9. Can I drink tap water in Colombo?
It’s not recommended to drink tap water in Colombo. Instead, drink bottled water, which is widely available in shops and restaurants.10. What souvenirs can I buy in Colombo?
Some of the popular souvenirs to buy in Colombo include:- Tea
- Spices
- Handicrafts
- Gemstones
- Batik clothing
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Colombo
Colombo is the vibrant capital city of Sri Lanka, and it has become a major tourist destination over the years. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Colombo. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful city, here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Colombo.1. Visit the National Museum of Colombo
The National Museum of Colombo is a great place to start your trip. It houses an extensive collection of exhibits that showcase the rich cultural history of Sri Lanka. The museum is located in the heart of the city, and it’s open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm every day except for Mondays and public holidays.How to Get There:
You can easily reach the museum by taking a tuk-tuk or a taxi from your hotel. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take a local bus or train.Tips:
– Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking around the museum for a while.– Bring a camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities inside the museum.
– Make sure to check out the Sri Lankan art galleries on the second floor of the museum.
2. Explore the Gangaramaya Temple
The Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most iconic landmarks in Colombo. It’s a beautiful Buddhist temple that’s located on a lake in the heart of the city. The temple is open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm every day.How to Get There:
You can take a tuk-tuk or a taxi to the temple from your hotel. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take a local bus.Tips:
– Dress appropriately when visiting the temple. You should cover your shoulders and legs as a sign of respect.– Don’t forget to remove your shoes before entering the temple.
– Make sure to check out the museum inside the temple, as it houses an extensive collection of religious artifacts.
3. Indulge in Local Cuisine
No trip to Colombo is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and aromatic spices. Some must-try dishes include the seafood curry, hoppers, and kottu roti.Where to Eat:
– Ministry of Crab: If you’re a seafood lover, then look no further than the Ministry of Crab. This restaurant serves some of the best crab dishes in the city.– Nuga Gama: For a truly authentic Sri Lankan dining experience, head to Nuga Gama. The restaurant is located in a traditional village setting and serves delectable Sri Lankan cuisine.
– Upali’s by Nawaloka: Upali’s by Nawaloka is a popular restaurant among locals and tourists alike. It serves a wide range of Sri Lankan dishes, including vegetarian options.
Tips:
– Try the street food: Colombo is known for its delicious street food, so make sure to try some of the local delicacies.– Be careful with the spice: Sri Lankan cuisine is known for being spicy, so be sure to let the servers know if you can’t handle the heat.
4. Relax on the Beach
Colombo is home to some stunning beaches, and they’re the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Some popular beaches include the Mount Lavinia Beach, the Negombo Beach, and the Unawatuna Beach.How to Get There:
You can take a tuk-tuk or a taxi to the beach from your hotel.Tips:
– Be mindful of the sun: Sri Lanka can get quite hot, so make sure to wear sunscreen and bring a hat and sunglasses.– Don’t forget to hydrate: It’s important to stay hydrated when spending time at the beach, so be sure to bring a water bottle.
Conclusion
Colombo is a beautiful city that’s full of history, culture, and amazing food. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in the city and experience all that it has to offer. Whether you’re exploring the local museums, indulging in the delicious cuisine, or relaxing on the beach, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Colombo.Table of Contents
