Colombo - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Colombo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Colombo, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Colombo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Colombo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Colombo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Colombo

Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, located on the southwestern coast of the island. It is a bustling, vibrant city that is home to over 5 million people. It serves as the economic, cultural and political center of the country. Colombo has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with influences from the Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial periods evident in its architecture and culture. The city attracts many tourists who are drawn to its vibrant street markets, historical landmarks, and eclectic cuisine. It also serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the rest of Sri Lanka.

What to visit in Colombo

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Colombo, Sri Lanka with a brief description for each: 1. Galle Face Green: A promenade which stretches for 5.5 hectares along the coast. It's a great spot for watching sunsets, flying kites, and enjoying street food.
2. Viharamahadevi Park: An urban park which is home to a large Buddha statue, water fountains, and beautiful flora. Visitors can stroll around the park, take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, and relax.
3. Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple: A Buddhist temple which is famous for its unique architecture, collection of Buddhist artifacts and relics, and the serene lake in which it sits.
4. National Museum of Colombo: A museum dedicated to Sri Lanka's history and culture. It's home to a large collection of art and artifacts ranging from ancient times to the present day.
5. Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct: An old colonial Dutch hospital turned modern marketplace featuring high-quality restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.
6. Independence Square: A historic landmark which commemorates Sri Lanka's freedom from British colonial rule. The square features a monument, manicured lawns, and is surrounded by important government buildings.
7. Colombo Fort: A historic fort area which was once a Portuguese, Dutch, and British trading hub. Visitors can take a walking tour of the area, visit historical landmarks, and shop at local markets.
8. Pettah Market: A bustling open-air market where visitors can experience the sights, smells, and sounds of local Sri Lankan life. Here visitors can purchase everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
9. Beira Lake: A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo which offers visitors scenic boat rides, artisan boutiques and cafes, and a peaceful respite from the city.
10. Mount Lavinia Beach: A beautiful beach located a short drive from Colombo. It's home to many seafood restaurants, hotels, and is ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Colombo.

When to go on holiday to Colombo

The best time to visit Colombo is between December and March when the weather is dry and sunny. During this time, the temperatures are usually around 28-30°C and the humidity is lower than in other months. It's also a great time for festivals and events, such as Christmas and Sri Lanka's Independence Day. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so prices may be higher and attractions may be crowded. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you may consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April to June or September to November when the weather is still good and the crowds are thinner.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Colombo

There are several ways to get to Colombo, Sri Lanka. The most common options are: 1. By Air: You can fly into Bandaranaike International Airport, which is located in Katunayake, about 35 km north of Colombo. Many airlines operate regular flights to Colombo from major cities around the world.
2. By Land: You can enter Sri Lanka by land from neighboring countries such as India. There are also regular train services from India to Colombo.
3. By Sea: If you're looking for a more scenic route, you can take a cruise ship to Colombo. The city has a modern port which welcomes various ships and cruises every year.
Once you arrive in Colombo, you can take a taxi, a tuk-tuk or public transportation to get around the city.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Colombo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Colombo

Certainly, here are some typical foods of Colombo, Sri Lanka: 1. Hoppers - a type of pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with coconut sambal and a curry.
2. Kottu Roti - a popular street food made with shredded roti, vegetables, eggs, and your choice of meat or seafood, all stir-fried together on a hotplate.
3. Curry - Sri Lankan curries are made with a variety of vegetables or meats and a blend of spices, such as curry leaves, cinnamon, turmeric, and chili powder. They are often served with rice or bread.
4. Lamprais - a Dutch-influenced dish that combines rice, meat (usually chicken or beef), boiled eggs, and spices, all wrapped in a banana leaf and then steamed or baked.
5. String Hoppers - another type of rice noodle that is often served with a coconut milk gravy and various curries.
6. Pol Sambol - a spicy condiment made with finely shredded coconut, chili, onion, lime juice, and salt.
7. Watalappam - a traditional Sri Lankan dessert made with coconut milk, jaggery (a type of unrefined sugar), and spices like cardamom and nutmeg.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Colombo!
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Colombo an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to some other destinations in Southeast Asia, Colombo can be considered a bit more expensive for tourists. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation can be relatively high, especially in more touristy areas.
However, there are also many budget-friendly options available, such as hostels, street food, and public transportation. If you plan your trip well and avoid unnecessarily high-cost activities, it's very possible to enjoy Colombo without spending too much money.

Where to find accomodation in Colombo

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Colombo, Sri Lanka are: 1. Fort - This area is the financial and business district of Colombo, with many historic buildings and tourist attractions.
2. Galle Face Green - This is a scenic waterfront area with a large park, popular for picnics and kite flying.
3. Cinnamon Gardens - A residential neighborhood with many colonial-era mansions, museums, and galleries.
4. Colpetty - A mix of residential and commercial areas, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars.
5. Bambalapitiya - A bustling commercial area with a mix of budget and upscale accommodations, and plenty of shopping options.
These areas are well connected to public transport and offer easy access to the city's popular tourist attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas, making them convenient options for travelers.
You can check hotel prices at Colombo here:
Booking.com

Is Colombo a safe destination for tourists?

Colombo is generally considered a safe place for tourists, though it is always important to exercise common sense and take necessary precautions while traveling in any foreign destination. Some areas of the city may be more prone to crime or petty theft, so it is advisable to stay vigilant while traveling. It is also recommended to dress conservatively and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics in public. Overall, Colombo has a thriving tourism industry and visitors can enjoy their trip without any major safety concerns.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Colombo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Colombo the most?

Colombo, Sri Lanka is a city that offers a wide range of activities and experiences for all types of travelers. Couples will enjoy the romantic ambiance of the city, with its beautiful beaches and historical landmarks such as the Gangaramaya Temple or the Independence Memorial Hall. There are also several art galleries, museums and shopping areas that are popular with couples.
Young people who are looking for fun can enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Colombo. There are many clubs, bars, and restaurants that offer live music, dancing, and entertainment. The city also has many adventure activities such as hiking, surfing, and water sports.
Families can enjoy the numerous attractions in Colombo such as zoos, parks, and family-friendly museums. The Colombo National Museum and Dehiwala Zoo are particularly popular with families. The city also has many kid-friendly restaurants and shopping malls.
Overall, Colombo is a great destination for all types of travelers who want an enjoyable trip full of culture, adventure, and relaxation.

How to get around Colombo

There are several transportation options to move around Colombo, Sri Lanka. The most popular and affordable mode of transportation is by tuk-tuk, which are three-wheeler vehicles that can easily navigate through the city's traffic. Another convenient option is by taxi, either through ride-hailing apps or hiring a cab from a taxi stand. Colombo also has a well-connected bus network, with both government and private buses running throughout the city. However, these can be crowded and slow during rush hours. Additionally, trains are available to travel to nearby areas and outer suburbs of Colombo.

What to see around Colombo

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Colombo (Sri Lanka): 1. Galle: visit the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Fort, explore its history and enjoy the scenic coastal views.
2. Bentota: relax on the golden beaches, take a boat ride on the Bentota River and visit the Bentota Turtle Hatchery.
3. Kandy: visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic and enjoy a cultural show, explore the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya and take a stroll around Kandy Lake.
4. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: spend a day with these orphaned elephants, feeding them and watching them bathe in the river.
5. Sigiriya Rock Fortress: climb up the ancient rock fortress and admire the stunning views from the top, explore the ancient ruins and learn about the history.
6. Nuwara Eliya: enjoy the cooler climate, visit the tea plantations, hike through the lush green hills and visit the Gregory Lake.
7. Sinharaja Forest Reserve: take a guided tour and explore the rich flora and fauna of the rainforest, including endemic bird species and dozens of different types of orchids.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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