Colombo

We arrived in Colombo from Nuwara Eliya which was a tiring drive. We spent 2 days in Colombo and tried to explore the bustling capital as much as we could.

Where to Stay

Marino Beach Colombo

We stayed here and had a great stay / have no regrets. It’s located right on the beach road however you don’t have direct access to the beachfront from the hotel as there’s a railway track that passes along the coastline. The hotel does offer a free shuttle to the private beach front. The hotel has multiple restaurants, great food and great services – the bathroom has glass wall with automatic curtains, there is free wi-fi, tv, safe and other free stuff like minibar with some goodies, free toiletries. The main highlight is the infinity pool on the terrace and the rooftop garden.

Taj Samudra, Galle Face Hotel & Shangri-La  are some other great choices for your stay in Colombo.

What to See

Gangaramaya Temple: This iconic Buddhist temple is a fascinating blend of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture. It houses a museum, library, and an eclectic collection of artifacts.

Galle Face Green: This ocean-side urban park is perfect for an evening stroll or to watch the sunset. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

National Museum of Colombo: Explore Sri Lanka's rich history and culture through exhibits of ancient artifacts, statues, and art pieces.

Independence Memorial Hall: A significant national monument commemorating Sri Lanka's independence from British rule. The surrounding gardens are great for a leisurely walk.

Viharamahadevi Park: A picturesque public park in the heart of Colombo, ideal for a relaxing break amid lush greenery and beautiful flowers.

Beira Lake: Take a boat ride on this scenic lake located in the heart of the city. You can enjoy views of the city skyline and visit Seema Malaka, a tranquil Buddhist temple on the lake.

Old Parliament Building: An impressive colonial-era building that once housed the Parliament of Sri Lanka. It's a great spot for architecture enthusiasts.

Pettah Market: Dive into the bustling streets of Pettah to experience the vibrant local life. Explore the markets selling everything from spices and textiles to electronics and street food.

Colombo Fort: Visit the historic fort area to see remnants of colonial architecture and modern development. The area houses several government buildings, hotels, and shopping complexes.

Colombo Lighthouse: Located at the entrance to the Colombo Harbour, this lighthouse offers panoramic views of the coastline and the city.

Where to Eat

Mount Lavinia Beach

Although slightly outside Colombo, Mount Lavinia Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. You can relax by the sea and enjoy some fresh seafood at the beachside restaurants.

Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

It was originally a hospital during the Dutch occupation of Sri Lanka and is now home to boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. It's a great place to relax and enjoy some local cuisine. We’d recommend you try Ministry of Crab here if you love seafood.

Arcade Independence Square

This place is a stylish shopping and dining complex housed in a restored colonial building just like the Dutch Hospital. It's a great place to shop for souvenirs or enjoy a meal.

The Manhattan Fishmarket

This restaurant is located on the Galle main road and they serve amazingly fresh and delicious seafood. Along with the seafood platters they also have some Sri Lankan delicacies on offer.