The 8 things to do in Colombo

Are you flying soon for Colombo? Discover the must-see in the capital of Sri Lanka!

Sri Lanka Economic Plum, Colombo is the largest city in the country in number of inhabitants. It is thanks to its privileged geographical position, including its natural port, that the city has been a crossroads of maritime trade between Europe, the Middle East and Asia for two millennia.

Colombo is impregnated by the diversity of cultures and civilizations that have stopped there, in the course of trade. Today it is the economic heart of the country, with the presence of many activities of all kinds (shows, museums, restaurants, corporate headquarters...). Visiting Colombo is going for a memorable journey through different eras of Sri Lankan history.

Are you ready to visit Colombo? Here are the 8 things to do in Colombo!

1. The National Museum

What to do in Colombo for art and culture lovers? The National Museum is ideal to start your dive into Sri Lankan culture, it will not fail to make you travel through all the times of the country’s history!

Founded in 1876 by the British governor of Sri Lanka (former British colony), the Colombo National Museum is the largest museum in the country. It houses an important collection of works that will allow you to trace the history of the country, before and during the colonial period. It contains real treasures of the ancient Sri Lankan culture, as well as historical jewels belonging to the former royal family. Finally, the museum has a beautiful collection of demon masks dating from the ancient period.

If you want to stroll around the museum, the Viharamahadevi Park is the ideal place. The largest green space in the city, it is the place of many different events and activities (concerts, festivals, public events...).

2. Pettah district

Visiting Colombo necessarily involves stopping in the Pettah district . Located in Colombo District 11, Pettah is one of the oldest in the city and one of the most popular.

Let yourself be carried by the crowd that walks through these old streets, where food stalls are close to artisanal shops. You can also enjoy historical monuments such as Wolvendaal Church or the Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque. Do not hesitate to browse the avenues of the various markets of the neighborhood to taste fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as local specialties. Among the markets to be seen absolutely, in a gastronomic visit For example, do not miss: Manning Market , Central Market or The Federation of Self Employees Market.

Another attraction to be made in Colombo and this neighborhood: the Dutch Museum. During the 17th century he housed the residence of the Dutch governor before serving successively as a military hospital, a police station and a post office.

3. The temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil

Visiting Colombo is also discovering the religious diversity of the country, which is expressed in particular through these temples. The temple of Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil , in uncanny name, is the oldest in the city. The architecture of the building, inspired by Indian culture, is impressive.

This temple houses many sculptures representing different gods Hindu, including two of the main gods of this mythology: Easwaran (Shiva for the intimates) and Ganesh . The authentic atmosphere that emerges from this temple is accentuated by the presence of musicians, as well as by the flow of the prayers entering and leaving the temple over the day. A real experience to live if you visit Colombo! In addition, the entrance is free!

4. board a Tuk-Tuk

Tuk-Tuk is the most convenient way to visit Colombo. It is used both by tourists but also by locals. As the city of Colombo is quite extensive, it can sometimes be tiring to walk through it, especially when it is hot. The Tuk-Tuk is the ideal solution to get around and it’s funny!

Let yourself be tempted by these mini cars that will sneak through the city and make you live a real adventure. You will have no trouble finding a driver: the Tuk-Tuk literally jump in the city of Colombo. Tuk-Tuk will stop by the first few minutes in town to ask if you want to go up.

5. The Memorial of Independence

Are you still wondering what to do in Colombo? This memorial symbolizes the independence of the territory of Sri Lanka vis-à-vis the British Empire, obtained on February 4, 1948. The architecture of this building includes the Royal Audience Hall in Kandy. For the little story, it was in this building that, in 1815, the convention marked the end of the Kandy kingdom, and brought the country into the British Empire. Inspired by the architecture of the Royal Audience Hall for this memorial was a great way to link these two major events of Sri Lankan history.

The memorial of independence is surrounded by a lush garden, opposite which you will find the statue of one of the symbols of the country: Don Stephen Senanayak , also called "the father of the nation" Sri Lankan. Located outside the bustle of the city, the memorial is a quiet place that will allow you to relax while discovering the history of this country.

6. The temple of Gangaramaya

Another attraction not to be missed when you come to visit Colombo: the temple of Gangaramaya . Located in Colombo District 2 (don’t hesitate to take a tuk-tuk to pay you), this temple is a tribute to the Buddhist religion and especially to Buddha, whose statues you can admire.

The site is divided into several buildings including a library and a museum. The prevailing atmosphere within the place is quite strange, but still deserves a detour.

7. Colonial buildings in the Fort district

Several traces of British or Dutch domination are visible throughout the city. In particular, colonial buildings of Fort district form part of the most monumental vestiges of these periods. In the past, the Fort district was home to a real Fort surrounded by the sea on both sides. Today, this neighbourhood is the headquarters of many government institutions, such as the President’s house and several ministries.

The buildings of the colonial era were restored, like the old Dutch hospital ( Dutch Hospital ) that really is worth the detour.

Dating from the beginning of the 17th century, it is beautifully restored and now houses excellent restaurants and cafes, as well as many local craft shops that must be discovered if you visit Colombo.

8. The promenade of Galle Face Green

Visiting Colombo can't be done without going through this place. This is one of the city’s symbols. Located south of Fort district, the promenade Galle Face Green is a long green expanse along the sea. The setting is very nice for a family trip near the ocean. The sports ferus will also be able to give itself to the joy of running, football and national sport: cricket!

The walk is also the ideal place if you want to admire a beautiful sunset.

How to get to Colombo?

If you are visiting Colombo, know that Colombo Airport is Sri Lanka’s only international airport. It is therefore easy to access if you are travelling to the region.

If you want to visit Colombo from France, direct and scheduled flights are scheduled from Paris, but you will have to book in advance to get interesting prices (about 800 € for a return trip). You will need about 11 hours to rally Sri Lanka from France, without a stopover.

Note that the Middle East airlines are the ones that will offer you the most advantageous fare, even if your flight will include one or more stopovers. For more information on rates, please visit our partner’s page Ulysses .

The airport is located about 30 kilometres from the city centre. Shuttle and buses will allow you to access it against a derisory sum. Taxis are also a possibility but you will have to pay a little more expensive. Another possibility is rent a vehicle in the rental agencies present within the airport.

Where to stay in Colombo?

You're planning to visit Colombo but don't know where to sleep? Districts 2, 4, 5 and 7 of the city will offer good quality accommodation at reasonable rates. At the level of the type of accommodation, the hotels are numerous in these neighborhoods, offering comfortable accommodation at acceptable prices.

If you want a total immersion in local life, don’t hesitate to ask yourself to sleep at home: it’s a common practice for many travellers who travel around the city and more generally Sri Lanka.

To help you with your research, do not hesitate to consult this Compare hotels and our article In which quarter house in Colombo? » .