Colombo City Guide

The capital city of Sri Lanka is the combination of the rich past heritage and modern day advancements. It is equally blessed with scenic natural landscapes and historically significant places. At the same time, it is the largest city and main port of Sri Lanka. A bustling metropolitan city, Colombo is the commercial and financial center of Sri Lanka.

Places of interest in Colombo:

The Fort : It is a major commercial center of the country that accommodates leading offices, big hotels, banks, main post office, immigration office, travel agents, airline offices and some shopping joints. Originally a fort during the Portuguese and Dutch periods, there are several places of tourist interest.

Mount Lavinia : This is an exotic beach located along the southern coastline. A favourite hang out place for the tourists and the locals alike, Mount Lavinia is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches close to any leading cities of the world.

National Museum : The biggest museum in Sri Lanka, National Museum is housed in a grand colonial building. It is a custodian to a rich collection of antique porcelain, manuscripts, royal regalia, antique furniture, masks and other pieces. It contains half a million books rock sculptures from the ancient cities.

Wolvendaal Church : A very old and honoured church, it happens to be the first church made by the Dutch. It is still active.

Pettah : This is a shoppers’ haven. The leading market street in the city, Pettah is the place where a traveler can get items like bright printed fabrics, suitings, undergarments, children wear, footwear and handbags to electrical goods, semi precious jewellery, watches, rare first edition books, cutlery and other household items.

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara : This is a Buddhist temple that is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha used to preach about 2000 years ago. A majestic carving of a reclining Buddha is the highlight of the temple.

How to reach Colombo:

The only international airport of Sri Lanka is Kattunayake. It is in Colombo. From the airport, a traveler can avail the bus service to Colombo City.

What to do in Colombo:

Being the capital of the nation, Colombo has lot to offer to any traveler. One can go out sightseeing and enjoy the delicious traditional cuisines at the restaurants. Shopping for mementos is also another activity that one must try in Colombo. The entertainment seekers can hit the discos, casinos and nightclubs to ease out the travel woes.

Distance from major cities:

Kandy Galle Dambulla Anuradhapura

283 kms 116 kms 148 kms 206 kms

History of Colombo:

A natural harbour, Colombo was well known in far and away even over 2000 years. Romans, Arabs and Chinese traders were aware of it as a business centre. Famous traveler Ibn Batuta referred to Colombo as Kalanpu.