Nightlife in Sri Lanka - 15 Marvellous Places in Sri Lanka to Have a Fantastic Night!

Although white beaches, safari rides in grand national parks, ancient temples and various traditional dishes are some attractive aspects of Sri Lanka, the island also hosts quite a few great bars, casinos, and discos. The choice remains between chilling at a beach party, bar, casino or spending your evening shopping and looking around the frequent night-bazaar in cities like Colombo. In fact, bigger cities such as Colombo are usually much livelier than smaller cities. 
So, to make the search easier, here is the list of the 15 best places to visit in Sri Lanka for a great night.

1. Rhythm and Blues

Rhythm and Blues is one of the most popular nightclubs in Colombo. This club also features live music performances ranging from jazz music to hip hop. In addition to a wide array of beer and hard liquor, the club also hosts a relaxing atmosphere in the outdoor garden. Pool tables, a stunning ambience installed with just the perfect lighting and sound effects to set in the party mood are some other highlights of Rhythm and Blues. 

Where in Sri Lanka - R. A. De Mel Mawatha, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - 8 PM - 5 AM (Mon-Sat) ; 8 PM - 12 AM (Sunday)
Entry Fee - LKR 1000 for men; Free entry for ladies
Cost for two (approx.) - LKR 3500 (including appetizers and alcohol)

2. Ballys Casino

One of the oldest and largest casinos in Colombo, Bally's Casino is definitely the place that you want to go if you are searching for a good casino in the city. Offering over 100 different tables for games such as Baccarat, Roulette, Blackjack, etc. and even live betting on sports, Bally's casino also features various daily musical performances and some alluring weekend dance performances.

On certain occasions for special events, many famous local or Indian personalities visit the casino. Various fashion shows take place on the stage as well. The casino also serves a complimentary snack and a drink of one's choice to the table while visitors are playing.

Where in Sri Lanka - 34 McCallum Rd, Colombo 01000, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - Open 24 hours (Mon-Sun)
Entry Fee - Free entry, food, and drinks (ID required)

3. Koha Surf Lounge

If you are visiting Unawatuna in Galle district, then Koha Surf Lounge is just the perfect place to visit and taste a fun yet laid-back nightlife in Sri Lanka. With delicious food, amazing cocktails, and friendly staff, this lounge promises a fun-filled night. Most visitors drop by this lounge after their surf session to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere with their friends. You could either lunch here or spend the evening with some live music plays in the background. Funky music and a peaceful ambience are some of the highlights of Koha Surf Lounge. They also have lines of shelves and walls embedded with painted surfboards, mandalas, and Sinhalese lettering retelling a story.

Where in Sri Lanka - Unawatuna, Galle district, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - 1 PM - 11 PM (Mon-Sun)
Entry Fee - None
Cost for two (approx.) - LKR 1500

4. Le Garage

Located in the Amalya Hills resort in Kandy, Le garage is a hippy nightclub. This club hosts several alluring themed parties ranging from retro nights to contemporary techno nights. Their friendly staff, throbbing music, exquisite snacks, and cocktails are some of the aspects that contribute to the fact that it is one of the best nightclubs in Kandy. Also, the club sports a unique rugged garage interior which sets it apart from the other typical nightclubs in Sri Lanka.

Where in Sri Lanka - No 16, Amaya Hills, Kandy, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - 5 PM - 2 AM (Mon-Sun)
Entry Fee - LKR 500
Cost for two (approx.) - LKR 1500

5. Disques

Another great place to experience the nightlife in Sri Lanka is Disques nightclub, which hosts many fun themed parties. The highlight of this club is its array of amazing music ranging from retro to contemporary hip hop. This club is your go-to if you're looking for some cocktails and an 80s dance floor. 

Where in Sri Lanka - 1st Floor, Racecourse Promenade, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - 8 PM - 4 AM (Wed-Sat); Closed on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday

6. Jims Poker Room

Offering as much as 90 gaming tables for games such as Texas Hold 'Em poker, Omaha, Baccarat, Roulette, Blackjack, Jims Poker Room is one of the former poker rooms established in the Sri Lankan nightlife scene. One of the best parts about this place is that it is absolutely free and open to visit 24/7; though the games usually begin around 8- 9 PM. Players are required to play for a minimum of two hours and are supposed to give a notice 30 minutes before they intend to leave the place. Also, the minimum buy-in for cash games at Jims Poker Room is LKR 25,000 UP, and the blinds start at about LKR 500 - LKR 1000. 

Where in Sri Lanka - No 30 Marine Drive, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - Open 24 hours (Mon-Sun)
Entry Fee - Free

7. On14 Rooftop Bar & Lounge

With reasonably priced drinks, mouthwatering snacks and magnificent view this rooftop bar and lounge offers happy hours between 5 PM TO 7 PM from Monday to Sunday. Situated on the 14th floor of the OZO hotel, the bar provides a stunning view of the Indian ocean. Apart from the view and eateries, the poolside setting, perfect lighting, stylish interior, and live entertainment are some of the highlights of the On14 Rooftop Bar & Lounge. Also, some of the must-try dishes at this place are buffalo wings, Margarita Pizza, mushroom pasta, cheese balls, and mix grill satay.

Where in Sri Lanka - 36, OZO hotel, 38 Clifford Pl, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - 11 AM - 1 AM (Sat-Wed); 11 AM - 2 AM (Thu - Fri)
Entry Fee - Free 
Cost for two - LKR 4750 (including drinks)

8. The 19th Hole Pub

Situated on the first floor of the Hotel Glendower in Nuwara Eliya, the 19th Hole Pub is a trendy bar and is also one of the best places to experience the nightlife in Sri Lanka. The pub is an interesting combination of local and western culture. From the old Sri Lankan-style wooden staircase to a traditional English country club, the 19th Hole Pub is sure to be a cultural indulgence too! The pub also has Buy one Get one free offer on some cocktails, brews, and food during happy hours. Friendly staff, cosy atmosphere, and unique items that decorate the wall to complete its stunning interior are some other aspects that make this pub an ideal place to visit if one is in the area.

Where in Sri Lanka - Hotel Glendower, No. 05, Grand Hotel Road, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - 11 AM - 11 PM (Mon-Sun)
Entry Fee - Free

9. W Lounge

Yet another great night hangout spot in Colombo is W Lounge, which is known for its decently priced finger foods, and a branded collection of amazing alcohol ranging from beer, whiskey, scotch, rum, and vodka. This place has a pretty laid-back vibe and is hosts the perfect nightlife in Sri Lanka. The pub also has an in-house DJ featuring mix techno, hip-hop and R & B hits. 

Ladies' Nights are on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. You could also sample some free drinks during these nights. In addition to its fortress-resembling exterior, the club is situated in the vicinity of many other eateries and pubs. 

Where in Sri Lanka - 31 Horton Pl, Colombo 00700, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - 24 Hours (Mon-Sun)
Entry Fee - LKR 1500 for men (Though, this can be redeemed by buying beverages)

10. L.A.B Lounge and Bar

L.A.B Lounge and Bar in Colombo is synonymous with the word sophisticated, which is evident through its modern and sleek interior engaging in an urban styled theme. Apart from its stunning ambience and friendly and speedy guest services, the great cocktails and delicious food at the LAB lounge stand out. Also, one speciality of this lounge and bar is that it offers many Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, and Vegan options. 

Where in Sri Lanka - 2 Sir Chittampalam A Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo, Sri Lanka 
Opening Hours - 7 AM - 1 AM (Sun-Thu); 7 AM - 2 AM (Fri-Sat)
Entry Fee - Free

11. Stella Karaoke Lounge and Bar

If you are a karaoke fan or simply wish to watch drunk people sing their hearts out at karaoke nights while having some amazing cocktail, then Stella Karaoke Lounge and Bar in Colombo is your choice. Situated near Il Font restaurant at Hilton, people visiting this bar for an engaging nightlife in Sri Lanka can expect their drinks to a little expensive; with Lion Lager and B-52s being some of the must-try cocktails from the vast selection of alcohol served at the bar.  

This karaoke bar has daily happy hours between 7 PM to 8 PM on select beverages. The Ladies Night in this bar is on Thursday nights, and every lady that visits this bar between 7 PM to 11 PM on this day gets a 50 % off on regular drinks. 

Where in Sri Lanka - 2 Parsons Rd, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - 7 PM - 4 AM (Mon - Fri) ; 7 PM - 12 AM (Sat) ; Closed on Sundays
Entry Fee - LKR 1700 nett
Cost for two - LKR 4000 (approx.)

12. Taphouse by RnR

Located in the Shopping precinct of the Dutch Hospital in Colombo, Taphouse by RnR is a lively pub offering a decently priced collection of cocktails and mocktails. While this place is fairly quiet during the day, there are epic live band performances during the night. Housed in dimly lit interiors, cushioned wooden chairs, wooden tables, and a couple of wall paintings, the pub is locally known for its excellent staff and ambience. 

Where in Sri Lanka - Near Dutch Hospital, Galle Fort, Galle
Opening Hours - 11 AM - 11 PM (Mon-Sun)
Entry Fee - Free
Cost for two - LKR 3000 (approx.) including appetizers, mains, beverages, and dessert
LKR 400 (approx.) for a pint of beer

13. Sopranos

A vibrant youth-centred pub, Sopranos is a dimly lit karaoke bar equipped with the latest sound technology offering over 17,000 soundtracks. The pub also provides a wide collection of alcohol options in addition to on-spot special requests. 

Sopranos hosts a super cozy atmosphere housed in a modern and sleek wooden furnished interior; with cushioned wooden chairs and round wooden tables. However, the club does not have a dance floor. With no formal stage within, the club carries out an informal and casual atmosphere, with people loudly singing in their seats. Before visiting this place, people should note that Sopranos follows a dress code according to which slippers and shorts are not allowed. However, they do provide shoes for those who show up in slippers. Also, it is recommended to carry a scarf or a jacket with you as the pub is usually quite cold.

Where in Sri Lanka - 29C, Maitland Crescent, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - 7 PM - 1 AM (Tue - Thu) ; 7 PM - 4 AM (Fri - Sat)
(Closed on Sunday and Monday)
Entry Fee - LKR 2500 for men; Free entry for ladies
Cost for two - LKR 2000 (approx.) based on the calculation for six beers and two appetizers
LKR 330 (approx.) for a pint of beer

14. Cafe chill

Cafe Chill in Ella is a cafe-bar-restaurant with stunning interiors and wooden furnished exteriors. This cafe is known to hosts great variety when it comes to food and cocktails; more so, many have reviewed this place to have the best pizza. Also, this cafe offers many Vegan meal options such as rice dishes, salads, curries, noodle dishes, and much more. The soundtrack that plays throughout the day at Cafe Chill also seems to be carefully selected with most modern hits echoing through the place. 

Where in Sri Lanka - A-23 Hettipola-Wellawaya Road, Ella, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - 10 AM - 12 AM (Mon-Sun)
Entry Fee - Free
Cost for two (approx.) - LKR 600

15. Curve Bar

Located in the Park Street Mews complex, Curve Tapas Bar is a trendy place sporting a lovely purple and white themed interior ambiance. Although this outdoor bar has an extensive cocktail menu, the nightlife in Sri Lanka experienced here can be a bit on the pricey side. In addition to regular live band performances post 9 PM every Wednesday to Saturday, the pub ensures to induce a mix of jazz and 80s, and 90s hit music tracks. 

Where in Sri Lanka - Curve Bar, 50/1 Park Street Mews, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours - 11 AM - 2:30 PM & 5 PM - 11 PM (Sun - Thu)
11 AM - 2:30 PM & 5 PM - 1 AM (Fri - Sat)
Cost for two - LKR 3000 (approx.) including alcohol and appetizers
LKR 300 for a pint of beer

Apart from these 15 places, some other places worth mentioning are The Love Bar (Colombo), Tribe (Colombo), Old Trinitians Sports Club (Kandy), and Amuseum Boutique Bar (Colombo). Ensure to drop by these pubs for a wholesome Sri Lankan nightlife!