Places to Visit in Colombo

Colombo represents a mix of cultural history seeped in old-world mansions and modern edifices in the form of markets, malls, beachfront shacks and fine dining restaurants.

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Things To See & Do

Viharamahadevi Park

Viharamahadevi Park

Popular Urban Park
Centrally located, the colonial-era Viharamahadevi Park is the oldest public park in Colombo, and features a gold statute of Buddha along with fountains and a mini zoo.

1 hour

Suggested Time

Gangaramaya Temple

Gangaramaya Temple

Revered Buddhist Temple
Set up in the late 19th century, Gangaramaya Temple is a Buddhist temple that displays a unique blend of architecture inspired by Sri Lankan, Indian and Thai culture.

30 minutes

Suggested Time

Independence Memorial Hall

Independence Memorial Hall

Notable National Monument
Built in 1953 to commemorate the independence of Sri Lanka, the Independence Memorial Hall is a national monument where ceremonial and national celebrations are held.

1 hour

Suggested Time

National Museum of Colombo

National Museum of Colombo

Largest National Museum
Set up in 1877, the National Museum of Colombo boasts of Italian-style architecture, and houses collections that talk of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.

2 to 3 Hours

Suggested Time

Kapikaawatha Shivan Temple

Kapikaawatha Shivan Temple

Oldest Hindu Temple
Kapikaawatha Shivan Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Colombo dating back to 1738. It affords traditional architecture with statutes of deities along with stone sculptures and carvings.

1 hour

Suggested Time

Fort Area

Fort Area

Bustling Commercial Hub
The Fort Area is seated in the central business district and the vicinity is peppered with colonial-era buildings of political importance along with commercial outlets.

1 to 2 hours

Suggested Time

Dutch Period Museum

Dutch Period Museum

Historic Dutch Museum
Dating back to 1796, the Dutch Period Museum displays artefacts that offer detailed insights into the history of Colombo when it was a Dutch colony.

2 hours

Suggested Time

Best Time To Visit Colombo

All year destination

  • JAN-MAR

    Peak Season

  • NOV-DEC

    Moderate Season

  • APR-OCT

    Off-season

  • What To Expect:Pleasant weather with minimum rainfalls.
  • Things You'll Love:Sightseeing and outdoor activities.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Vesak PoyaMarch

Tamil New YearApril

DeepavaliOctober-November

Book Your Trip to Colombo

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Explore Top Places to Visit in Colombo - The Jewel of Sri Lanka


The capital city of Sri Lanka, Colombo is a popular tourist destination among Indians. You can explore this cosmopolitan getaway for its amalgamation of cultures, preserved history and an enviable tropical landscape. Let’s find out some top places to visit in Colombo with family and friends.


Top 4 Tourist Hotspots of Colombo to Explore


Check out some most popular places to visit in Colombo for 3 days or more.


Gangaramaya Temple

This old Buddhist temple dates back to the 19th century. It is a great place to explore for history buffs with its unique blend of culture and architecture. You can also explore various museums, relics and statues within the temple premises.


Galle Face Green

Visit this mesmerising beach park for a laid-back relaxation on the Eastern coastline. You can capture mesmerising sunrises and sunsets here, also enjoying some fun activities like fishing, kite flying, beach volleyball, etc. It is also among the best places to visit in Colombo for couples.


Independence Square

Check out this popular tourist attraction for its beautiful ponds, and well-maintained fountain garden and also explore the city’s history of valiance against colonisation. It is also a great place for photography.


Explore Colombo’s Tryst with Art and Architecture


Some great places to visit in Colombo with friends and family also include its various architectural wonders, natural locales and other tourism hotspots.

  1. Lotus Tower
    Visit this architectural marvel at night to bask in its glory, shop and click memorable pictures here. You can also explore the observing decks, and visit ballrooms and auditoriums at this happening destination known among the best places to visit in Colombo at night.
  2. Pettah Floating Market
    Located by the Beira Lake, this floating pavilion market has numerous shops and stalls to explore local merchandise
  3. Mount Lavinia Beach
    Go to this secluded beach to explore with ‘Golden Mile’, a mile of stretch with blonde sand bed known for its gentle waves, pubs and restaurants.
  4. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
    Explore Colombo’s history with a visit to one of the oldest Buddhist temples known for its intricate paintings and Gautam Buddha’s visit.

Additional tourist destinations and activities to explore here are -

  • Balapitiya Madu River Safari
  • Colombo National Museum
  • Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct
  • Colombo Dehiwala Zoo

Tourist Places in Colombo

National Museum of Colombo, Gangaramaya Temple, Fort Area, Viharamahadevi Park, Kapikaawatha Shivan Temple

Country

Sri Lanka

Best Time to Visit in Colombo

January to March

Things to Do in Colombo

Independence Memorial Hall, Dutch Period Museum, Water Sports at Negombo, Boating at Beira Lake, Watch the Sunset at Gall Face Green

Places to visit in Colombo with Family

Dinner Cruise on Waikkal River, Ballys Casino, Culture Colombo, t-Lounge by Dilmah, Ministry of Crab

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Colombo

What are some of the most famous restaurants and eateries to explore in Colombo?

If you are a foodie, Colombo is the right place for you. Colombo has many famous restaurants and eateries for you to explore, some of which are Dutch Hospital, Bally’s Casino and t-Lounge by Dilmah.

What are the things that you should not miss out on when you are in Colombo?

If you are a true traveller, you should definitely not miss out on Viharamahadevi Park, Gangaramaya Temple, and Independence Memorial Hall when you are in Colombo to make a funfilled vacay.

How is the weather of Colombo in peak season?

The weather of Colombo in peak season is pleasant weather with minimum rainfalls. It means you can easily plan a trip to Colombo in the months of ​​​​​​​​January, February and March to enjoy your trip to the fullest.