Planning a visit to Sri Lanka’s bustling commercial capital and wondering what there is to see and do? Well, Colombo is a place where East meets West in a colourful clash of cultures and there is something for everyone be it the free spirits, couples or families. Before you begin your tour, do look to find a centrally located hotel. Colombo has many to choose from ranging from budget to luxury options.
First up are some of the well-known landmarks that are mandatory to visit if you’re here for the first time. The Colombo National Museum, within a 10 minute drive from Jetwing Colombo Seven, is a great place to get an idea about the island’s rich history. From the museum head to the nearby Viharamahadevi Park a popular place for recreation or quiet strolls amidst the shaded pathways. From there it’s just a hop, skip and jump away from one of the city’s most popular high-end shopping hubs, the Odel department store.
For more cultural experiences plan a trip to the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple; set amidst the urban cityscape, this small and enchanting temple by the Beira Lake offers an insight into Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage. Look to visit the locale during the Navam Perahera at the beginning of the year or in May when the Vesak festival takes place. From the temple, it is a short tuk-tuk ride (a quintessential Colombo experience!) to the Pettah Market. This lively market actually encompasses many streets that criss-cross their way around the locale. Always busy, there is never a dull moment here and you will find everything under the sun (and shade!) for sale.
It’s always nice to end the day by the sea and as evening draws nigh, plan a trip to the popular area known as Galle Face Green. While this large open space by the ocean may have lost some of its “greenery” due to the many who frequent the locale every day, it is a wonderful place to just hang out, indulge in some people watching, fly kites or just take in the sunset. Of course, it is also famous for offering some delectable street food that is very much a part of Colombo foodie culture.
This city by the sea has all this and more, just waiting to be experienced.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
