Places To Visit In Colombo

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1. Galle Face Green

Galle Face Green
Top Attraction 4.4 /5

2 km
from city center
1 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The Galle Face Green is a beautiful beach park located in Fort Colombo along its eastern coastline. Spread over almost five hectares, it is popular for activities like kite flying, fishing, football, beach volleyball, jogging, and relaxing by the beach. It also offers stunning sunrise and sunset views. There are many stalls along the beach selling food, drinks, and souvenirs.

2. Gangaramaya Temple

Gangaramaya Temple
Top Attraction 4.5 /5

1 km
from city center
2 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The Gangaramaya is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Colombo, located on Beira Lake. It is a unique blend of architecture and culture and was built in the 19th century and started by the famous scholar-monk Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera. There are several buildings on the premises housing relics, a museum, statues, stupas, and many halls.

3. Viharamahadevi Park

Viharamahadevi Park
Instagram Worthy 3.7 /5

2 km
from city center
3 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Viharamahadevi is one of the biggest and oldest parks in Sri Lanka, located quite close to the National Museum in Colombo. The park's highlight is a huge Buddha statue accompanied by series of water fountains. It also has a mini zoo and a children’s play area. The park also offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views.

4. Colombo Fort

Colombo Fort

0 km
from city center
4 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The Fort area in Colombo is the central business and financial district with a busy harbor, the stock exchange, and the World Trade Centre, which is the country's biggest building. It is the best place to see Colombo's colonial buildings and monuments. This dynamic district offers everything from food and heritage to nightlife and casinos.

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5. Colombo Dehiwala Zoo

Colombo Dehiwala Zoo
3.8 /5

8 km
from city center
5 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The National Zoological Garden of Sri Lanka, also known as the Colombo Zoo or the Dehiwala Zoo is home to over 300 different species of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish from all over the world. It also has a beautiful butterfly garden, fountains, and colorful flowers.

6. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
4.2 /5

7 km
from city center
6 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is a Buddhist temple built in the 5th century. It is believed to have been visited by the Buddha on his third visit to the country along with 500 monks after the enlightenment of 8 years, back in 500 BCE. The main attraction is the astounding 90 feet stupa and the intrinsic paintings.

7. Beira Lake

Beira Lake
3.7 /5

1 km
from city center
7 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

One of the most famous landmarks in Colombo is Beira Lake. It is a quiet escape and a great place to relax. One can take a stroll by the lake or try the famous swan boat ride. The main attraction of Beira Lake is a small island located in the center, which is popular among couples. There is also a Buddhist temple, a floating fine-dining restaurant, and some snack shops.

8. Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

2 km
from city center
8 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

One of Colombo’s most dynamic shopping centers lies within the historic site of Fort’s Old Dutch Hospital, constructed in 1677-1681. The shopping precinct houses some of Colombo’s best retail outlets, boutiques, and diners. Enjoy a rejuvenating massage at Spa Ceylon, shop at Barefoot, savor delicious Italian cuisine at Colombo Fort Cafe, or visit the city’s best seafood place, the Ministry of Crab.

9. Mount Lavinia Beach

Mount Lavinia Beach
4.5 /5

10 km
from city center
9 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Famed for its "Golden Mile" of scenic blond coastline, Mount Lavinia Beach offers a mile-long stretch of sand, gentle waves, lifeguards, fancy hotels, pubs, and restaurants. It's known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful sunsets. The beach has various water sports, including surfing, bodyboarding, and jet skiing.

10. Independence Square

Independence Square
4.2 /5

3 km
from city center
10 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Located in the Cinnamon Gardens district, Independence Square was built in 1948 to commemorate Sri Lanka gaining independence from the British Empire. The present-day square includes manicured fountain gardens, ponds, and the grand Independence Memorial Hall, immortalizing those who fought to preserve the Sri Lankan identity during colonisation. It is a popular picnic spot.

11. Colombo National Museum

Colombo National Museum
4.3 /5

2 km
from city center
11 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The National Museum of Colombo is the largest museum in Sri Lanka. It dates back to 1877 and has a colonial vibe with a rich history covering 2500 years. The building’s artworks have an essence of the Dutch, Portuguese, and British Colonial times,with the display of significant ancient and local artifacts, farming methods, tools, and traditional crafts.

12. Pettah Floating Market

Pettah Floating Market

1 km
from city center
12 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The Pettah Floating Market is a series of pavilions constructed on the far end of the restored Beira lake between the Pettah bus station and the railway station. There are about ninety trade stalls and shops along the waters, with vendors selling fruits, vegetables and flowers on the wooden boats floating lazily on the lake. 

13. Bally’s Casino Colombo

Bally’s Casino Colombo
4.3 /5

1 km
from city center
13 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

In the heart of Colombo, Bally's Casino is Sri Lanka's largest and most luxurious casino, with over sixty table games such as Asian poker, card poker, blackjack, baccarat, roulette, and mini-flush. Musicals and dance performances by Sri Lankan and foreign artists and DJs are featured, alongside splendid buffets and cocktails at the restaurant and bar.

14. Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque

Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque
4.2 /5

2 km
from city center
14 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Famed for its striking red and white candy-striped brick facade, Red Mosque is a long-standing landmark mosque on Second Cross Street, the old port area of Colombo. The dual-storied building with minarets has a clock tower reminiscent of Kuala Lumpur’s Jamek Mosque. Prayer times and Fridays are the busiest hours.

15. Gangaramaya Seema Malaka

Gangaramaya Seema Malaka

1 km
from city center
15 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Situated in the Beira Lake nearby Galle Face Green in Colombo, Seema Malaka is a Buddhist temple mainly used for meditation by monks. The place is known for its calm ambiance and serene setting. It also houses a temple museum with a collection of vintage cars presented by patrons over the years.

16. St. Lucia's Cathedral Colombo

St. Lucia's Cathedral Colombo
3.6 /5

2 km
from city center
16 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

St. Lucia’s Cathedral is named after the saint martyr St. Lucia who is considered the protector of those with eye troubles in Colombo. Iy was first established in 1760 and exhibited beautiful architecture of the Gothic style. The cathedral has a rich culture and heritage, which makes it a popular place in Colombo.

17. Lotus Tower

Lotus Tower
4.3 /5

0 km
from city center
17 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The Colombo Lotus Tower is the tallest tower in South Asia, standing at 356 meters. It features high-end shopping malls, hotels with suites, viewing decks, ballrooms and banquet halls, restaurants, museums, and auditoriums. At the top is a revolving restaurant overlooking panoramic city views.

18. Pettah Market

Pettah Market

0 km
from city center
18 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The Pettah Market or Manning Market is an open market in the suburb of Pettah in Colombo. One can find a wide range of goods right, from electronics to fashion accessories, and market vendors selling anything from fresh vegetables and fruits to meat and seafood.

19. Crow Island Beach Park

Crow Island Beach Park

0 km
from city center
19 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The Crow Island Beach Park is a public recreational area situated on the shores of the Indian Ocean. This 17-acre park has a children’s play area, walking tracks, a mangrove forest, a lake, a vast playground, and kite-flying opportunities. The beach park is also a fine place to witness the sunset.

20. Excel World Entertainment Park

Excel World Entertainment Park
3.9 /5

1 km
from city center
20 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Excel World Entertainment Park is an amusement park with rides, video games, bowling, a pool lounge, and laser tag for kids and adults. While its most prominent attraction is Snow World, the park houses thrilling rides like pirate ships, horseback carousels, fancy trains, and bumper car rides.

21. St. Anthony's Shrine Colombo

St. Anthony's Shrine Colombo

0 km
from city center
21 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

St. Anthony's Shrine, built in 1828, is dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua and is a modern Roman Catholic church in the Kochchikade, Colombo.The shrine has impressive Renaissance architecture and is a place of faith for Catholics and non-Catholics. The 1st floor has a small museum dedicated to the memory of the patron saint, St. Anthony.

22. Sri Lanka Planetarium

Sri Lanka Planetarium
4.4 /5

3 km
from city center
22 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Located on the University of Colombo grounds, Sri Lanka Planetarium is a public planetarium housed within a lotus-shaped building from 1965. This is the first and only planetarium in the country, maintained by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Research, and features 570 seats. Visitors can enjoy shows in English and Tamil inside, consisting of lessons about planets, the sun, the solar system, and star constellations.

23. Diyatha Uyana

Diyatha Uyana
4.4 /5

6 km
from city center
23 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Tucked between the Parliament complex and Polduwa junction, Diyatha Uyana is a well-maintained public park constructed on marshy land on the banks of Lake Diyawanna Oya. As one of Colombo’s most picturesque places, this park features scenic walking paths past gardens and ponds with graceful swans, shaded picnic spots, and a children’s park.

24. Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre

Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre
4.6 /5

2 km
from city center
24 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre is a performing arts center in Colombo. The theatre’s state-of-the-art architecture resembles an eight-petaled lotus flower inspired by Polonnaruwa's Nelum Pokuna (Lotus Pond). The building features two permanent theatres - the main auditorium, an open-air theatre, and an additional open-air theatre on the front steps.

25. Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple

Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple
4.6 /5

4 km
from city center
25 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple was built in the 1870s to shelter Aluthgama Sangharatne's disciples, who came to hear the monk's sermons. Resplendent with well-preserved statues of Buddha, intricate murals, and an extensive collection of antique items, it features several dagoba stupas, a preaching hall, the sacred Bo-Tree, and a bell tower.

26. Beddagana Wetland Park

Beddagana Wetland Park
4.4 /5

7 km
from city center
26 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Beddagana Wetland Park is a peaceful natural forested area with walking paths through the wetlands and abundant bird life. Located on Rampart Road, this public park is home to 40 species of butterflies, and 80 species of birds, inhabiting the picturesque lakes, ponds and marshes. The walking trail ends at a floating deck offering amazing views of Lake Diyawanna Oya.

27. Bellagio Casino Colombo

Bellagio Casino Colombo
4.2 /5

3 km
from city center
27 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

A popular nightlife spot, Bellagio Casino is a live casino game and slot machine establishment. Sleek yet warm, their high-end gaming lounges feature 32 gaming tables and four gaming machines. Bellagio Casino is open 24/7 and closed on Poya or Full Moon nights.

28. All Saints' Church

All Saints' Church

0 km
from city center
28 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The All Saints’ Church located in Borella, Colombo dates back to 1884. Known for its Gothic architecture and stained glass windows, the church has a carillon of 25 bells specially bought in from West Germany, each bearing a saint’s name on it.

29. World Trade Center, Colombo

World Trade Center, Colombo

2 km
from city center
29 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Colombo is famous for many old colonial buildings that clustered mostly in the old Fort area, and the most famous of them are the two iconic skyscrapers, the twin towers of the World Trade Center constructed within six years, i.e. from 1990-1996.

30. National Railway Museum

National Railway Museum
4.7 /5

82 km
from city center
30 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Learn how locomotives first came to Sri Lanka and transported tea and people all over the country at National Railway Museum in Colombo. It was built to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the railway service in Sri Lanka. Showcasing unparalleled feats of engineering, the museum exhibits engines, carriages, rail cars, trams, trolleys, carriages, and machinery.

31. Good Market Lanka

Good Market Lanka

0 km
from city center
31 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The good market is one of the exciting local markets in Colombo, where local people set up small shops and sell mostly food items. It is a small cheerful market set up every Saturday and is known to sell locally produced organic goods. Here you can buy fresh organic fruits and vegetables, king coconuts, pure bee's honey, kithul jaggery, body care, and home care products.

32. Colombo Maritime Museum

Colombo Maritime Museum
3.5 /5

2 km
from city center
32 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The Colombo Maritime Museum is in one of the former Dutch prisons which were built in 1676 making it one of the oldest Dutch buildings in Colombo. The museum has undergone many renovations to date, and it has been open to the public since the year 2003. There are two stories in the museum which are made of unique architecture and design inspired by Italian architecture.

33. Casino Marina Colombo

Casino Marina Colombo

0 km
from city center
33 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

With the airport as a landmark nearby, Casino Marina has a serene view of the sea. It has about 90 table games, 40 poker tables, a poker room called Jim’s Poker Room, and 70 machine games. Roulette, Omaha tables, and Texas Hold 'Em poker are popular games.

34. Panadura Beach

Panadura Beach

24 km
from city center
34 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Panadura is in the Western Province of Sri Lanka, a large town bustling with people and the joys of local life. It is popular for its beach, with a long stretch of the sea, and bordered coasts shrouded with golden sand. Kite flying is a favourite activity on the beach. Panadura is quite secluded at most times.

35. R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium

R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium

2 km
from city center
35 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The R. Premadasa International Stadium, earlier known as Kettarama Cricket Stadium till June 1994 was named after former Sri Lanka president Ranasinghe Premadasa. It was opened on February 2, 1986, and is on Khettarama Road, Maligawatta. It is the biggest stadium in Sri Lanka and is an excellent place to spend a breezy evening. 

36. Cotta Park

Cotta Park

0 km
from city center
36 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Cotta Park is a children’s park situated in Columbo. Open throughout the week, the park is beautified with numerous trees, plants and floral decorations, which is the prime reason to visit this pretty park. Also housing a pond, the park is a peaceful place to rejuvenate after a long, tiring day.

37. Attidiya Bird Sanctuary

Attidiya Bird Sanctuary
4.3 /5

11 km
from city center
37 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Bordering the famous Bellanwila Buddhist Temple, Attidiya Bird Sanctuary is the largest wildlife refuge in the Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia area of Colombo. Spread over verdant marshes, shallow freshwater ponds, and canals; this reserve park has 166 species of birds, 71 species of butterflies, 44 species of fish, crocodiles, vipers, cobras, and even pythons. Visitors can also enjoy Jeep rides and birdwatching.

38. Bolgoda Lake

Bolgoda Lake

0 km
from city center
38 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Located a little less than an hour’s drive away from Colombo, Bolgoda Lake stretches over an area of about 374 square kilometers and is known to be the largest freshwater source in the western district of Sri Lanka.

39. Sri Kaileswaram Temple

Sri Kaileswaram Temple

0 km
from city center
39 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Sri Kaileswaram Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Ganesha, stands to be the oldest Hindu temple in Colombo in Sri Lanka. Built over two centuries ago, the temple is known to be one of the most popular matrimonial sites in the area.

40. Scuba Diving

Scuba Diving

0 km
from city center
40 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Colombo, the commercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka has some of the world's best Scuba diving and snorkeling spots. Once you find the right spot, a single scuba dive amidst the coral reefs and shipwrecks could be a life changing experience. Apart from having all the modern buildings and shopping sites, Colombo also has a stunning marine life. From lion fish to stingrays, swimming with these beautiful water creatures will definitely satisfy you aesthetically.

41. Galle Face Green Night Market

Galle Face Green Night Market

8,982 km
from city center
41 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The Galle Face Green Market is a charming attraction with numerous food stalls and a wide array of trinket stores. The market is also a great spot to enjoy a mesmerizing sunset. These stalls also sell some of the most popular local food.

42. Royal Colombo Golf Club

Royal Colombo Golf Club

0 km
from city center
42 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Established in the year 1880, The Royal Colombo Golf Club is located in Colombo at the Anderson Golf Course and is the oldest golf course in Colombo. The game of golf was introduced by the British to a small English colony called Ceylon. This golf course is spread over a whopping 6500 yards and has 18 holes.

43. Sathutu Uyana

Sathutu Uyana

0 km
from city center
43 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Situated in Aluthmawatha Road, Colombo, Sathutu Uyana Park is a public recreational area spread across over 3 acres. Mainly open in the evening, the park is a great place for a quite time. This place offers multiple joy rides for children including toy train rides. With a variety of food and drink options, the park also offers affordable entry tickets.

44. Gangaramaya Park

Gangaramaya Park

0 km
from city center
44 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Gangaramaya Park is a children’s park, with plenty of greenery and flora. Built around Beira Lake, the park is a great place to relax or even birdwatch, as it is frequented by rare birds. Maintained by the Sri Lankan Army, the Gangaramaya Park is rather clean and is one of the must-visit parks in Sri Lanka.

45. Philip Gunawardena Childrens Park

Philip Gunawardena Childrens Park

0 km
from city center
45 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The Philip Gunawardena Park is located in Hyde Park, Darley Road in Colombo. Named after the national hero Mr Don Philip Gunawardena; the former Minister of Industries and Fisheries, this community playground has walking tracks as well. Among the multiple food options available here, local fast food is what stands out. The park also organises personal special events, where visitors can directly book the venue. There are parking spaces as well.

46. Hamilton Canal Park

Hamilton Canal Park

0 km
from city center
46 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Located on Mattakkuliya wattala suburbs of Colombo, Hamilton Canal Park is a gorgeous park surrounded by greenery and lakes. Spread across vast landscapes, the park is the perfect picnic spot. Visitors frequent the park for a relaxing time as they watch fisherman doing their chores. Along with food and drink options, there are many activities such as boat rides at reasonable prices. You can also buy fresh fish from the nearest shops. Parking space is available.

47. Kathiresan Pillayar Temple

Kathiresan Pillayar Temple

0 km
from city center
47 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Built more than a hundred years ago, Kathiresan Pillaiyar Temple is an old temple which is dedicated to the war god of Hindu mythology God Murugan or Skanda.

48. Mayurapathy Kovil Colombo

Mayurapathy Kovil Colombo

5 km
from city center
48 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Located on Havelock road in Colombo in Sri Lanka, Mayurapathy Sri Pathrakali Amman Kovil is a popular local Hindu temple that is known for its stunning architecture.

49. Kala Pola Art Market

Kala Pola Art Market

467 km
from city center
49 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

The Kala Pola Art Market is an open-air market ideal for art enthusiasts. It is a colourful extravaganza demonstrating and promoting the best of visual artworks by painters and sculptors. It also serves as an excellent meet and greet platform for art lovers.

50. Sivasubramania Swami Kovil

Sivasubramania Swami Kovil

0 km
from city center
50 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Situated on the Kew Road in Colombo, Sivasubramania Swami Kovil is a magnificent Hindu temple that is dedicated to Lord Skanda or Murugan and is said to be about a century old.

51. Shiva Temple

Shiva Temple

0 km
from city center
51 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

Named after a patriot who died fighting for Sri Lanka’s independence, this temple designed in south granite stone is a must-visit for its intricate carvings on the walls. There is no entry fee. The temple is open throughout the week.

52. New Kathiresan Temple

New Kathiresan Temple

0 km
from city center
52 out of 68
Places To Visit in Colombo

It is the largest temple in Colombo with three temples in the compound. Divided into Old and New Kathiresan Temple, it was built in 1830. The New Kathiresan Temple is dedicated to Skanda or Murugan who is locally revered as the war god.

FAQs on Colombo

How much does a package cost for Colombo?

The packages for Colombo start at INR 13788 which can be further customized based on number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type and customizations. You can have a look at all packages here

What are the top hotels in Colombo?

There are 653 Hotels in Colombo which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Colombo are Colombo Home Stay, Royal Park Luxury 3 Bedroom Apartment @18, Hello travel- sea view cozy place Colombo, Nugegoda Apartment, Bodi's Loft, Ceylon Boutique Homestay Colombo. You can see all the hotels in Colombo here

What are the top activities in Colombo?

The top activities in Colombo are Private Bandaranaike International Airport Transfers (CMB) for Colombo, Sigiriya Lion's Rock Fortress Day Tour And Village Experience from Colombo, Colombo City Half Day Tour, Balapitiya River Safari and Nature Tour from Colombo, Private City Transfers for Colombo and Surrounding Areas, Galle and Surrounding Areas Day Tour from Colombo.

What are the top shopping places in Colombo?

The top shopping places in Colombo are Pettah Market, Good Market, Colombo, Pettah Floating Market.

What are the top sightseeing places in Colombo?

The top sightseeing places in Colombo are Galle Face Green, Pettah Market, National Museum of Colombo, Fort-Colombo, Kelaniya Raj Maha Vihara, Gangaramaya Temple.

How can I commute within Colombo?

Colombo is extensively connected by it's vast public bus service. These are run by both private contractors and government bodies. The city is not very well connected by rail, with only a few train stations. The trains and buses however, are very crowded, especially during the peak hours. A lot of auto rickshaws run throughout the city as well.
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