Colombo City Tour

olombo is a bustling and dynamic city, so there’s much more to see and do than can be covered in a single day. This itinerary provides a good starting point to explore the city’s highlights and you can customize it based on your interests and the amount of time you have available.

• Colombo National Museum: Explore the Colombo National Museum to learn about Sri Lanka’s history and culture. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including ancient art.
• Independence Square: Start your tour at Independence Square, a historic landmark where Sri Lanka gained its independence from British colonial rule in 1948. The square features a beautiful monument and park, making it an excellent spot for a leisurely walk.
• Galle Face Green: Head to Galle Face Green, a scenic oceanfront promenade, perfect for a relaxing stroll or enjoying street food vendors selling traditional Sri Lankan snacks like isso wade (shrimp fritters) and kottu roti.
• Old Parliament Building: Continue to the Old Parliament Building, a stunning colonial-era structure that now houses the Presidential Secretariat. You can admire its architectural beauty from the outside.
• Visit the Gangaramaya Temple, one of Colombo’s most important Buddhist temples. It features a mix of architectural styles and houses a fascinating collection of artifacts. The temple is known for its vibrant annual Navam Perahera procession.
• Viharamahadevi Park: Take a leisurely walk in Viharamahadevi Park, a beautiful urban  space named after Queen Viharamahadevi. It’s a great place to relax and escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
• Colombo Fort and Pettah: Visit the historic Colombo Fort area, home to many colonial-era buildings and modern business districts. Explore the bustling Pettah market, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and a variety of goods.
• Colombo Lighthouse and Clock Tower: Head to the Colombo Lighthouse and Clock Tower, two iconic landmarks near the harbor. They provide excellent photo opportunities and offer insight into the city’s maritime history.
• Beira Lake: Take a relaxing boat ride on Beira Lake, located in the heart of Colombo. You’ll pass by scenic views and may even see some wildlife.
• Shopping: If you enjoy shopping, Colombo has several shopping malls and boutiques where you can buy clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. ODEL, Crescat Boulevard, and the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct are popular places to shop.
• Dining: Colombo offers a diverse range of dining options. You can savor traditional Sri Lankan cuisine at local restaurants or explore international options at upscale eateries in the city.