Travel Guide to Colombo - Must See Places

A journey to Sri Lanka will enlighten the heart and soul with the mesmerising beauty of the ocean country where travellers can treat their senses by witnessing some of the most stunning beaches, creative architectural masterpieces, rich cultural/historical significance and some of the most lip-smacking cuisine on the planet.

After arriving in Sri Lanka, all tourists are suggested to keep their travel itinerary ready for Colombo as the capital city of the country/nation is a combination of ethereal beauty and urbanisation success. If you haven't prepared a travel plan for Colombo yet, we’ve got your back! Here are all the best places to visit in Colombo, Sri Lanka to enjoy the country's top-rated destinations!

The Viharamahadevi Park

The Viharamahadevi Park is one of the most stunning urban attractions in Sri Lanka which is also the largest/most visited park in the country. This park houses fantastic picnic spots for quality time with loved ones, beautiful waterfalls, public park/family places, a zoo and much more to explore! If you wish to indulge in the highest level of comfort and peace, the Viharamahadevi Park is the best location for you!

What to anticipate?

In this park in Colombo, Sri Lanka, visitors can anticipate catching glimpses of the Cenotaph War Memorial. Along with that, this park houses the Colombo Public Library as well for a quiet reading session. Visitors can visit the stadium as well to enjoy some of the most thrilling events in Colombo.

Visiting tips

• This park can be visited 24 hours.
• No fee will be charged to enter the park.
• Visitors can enjoy walking and bicycling paths in the park.

Location of the park

Colombo 07, Sri Lanka.

The Gangaramaya Temple

The Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most iconic religious destinations/attractions to visit in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This temple is mainly dedicated to the worship of Lord Buddha and the Buddhist belief. Since the Gangaramaya Temple holds massive amounts of religious/spiritual significance, it witnesses thousands of visitors each year with the hopes of religious and spiritual cleansing. When it comes to the construction or architectural build-up of the temple, various elements of the Indian-art, Thai-art and Chinese-art are observed.

What to anticipate?

This temple is the ground of infinite knowledge and wisdom for all travellers who wish to explore the deepest depths of learning and understanding. The Buddha statue is the best sight to witness!

Visiting tips

• The timings of this temple are 6 a.m to 10 p.m.
• A small fee should be paid for entering this temple.
• All visitors should compulsorily remove their shoes/footwear before entering the temple.

Location of the temple

Jinarathana Road, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The Independence Memorial Hall

The Independence Memorial Hall in Colombo was erected on the date/year of 1953. Due to its stunning architecture and imperial history, this tourist destination in Sri Lanka quickly became a top-rated location for all travel itineraries to Colombo. This hall remains as the symbol of Sri Lanka's independence/freedom from British rule. The Independence Memorial Hall is well-known for conducting/organising colossal Independence Day festivities/celebrations.

What to anticipate?

This hall houses a museum where visitors can view commemoration of the souls/fighters who gave up their life for the independence/freedom of Sri Lanka.

Visiting tips

• The Independence Memorial Hall can be visited any hour of the day.
• No fee will be charged to enter this location.
• A fee will be charged to enter the above-mentioned museum in this location.

Location of the monument

Independence Avenue, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The Arugam Bay Beach

Colombo is a hustling and bustling city in Sri Lanka which offers numerous urban locations to explore. However, if a visitor wishes to escape this fast-paced city life and wish to experience incredible moments of tranquillity and calmness, they must visit the Arugam Bay Beach. This beach is not only popular due to its peaceful scenes, but it is also a well-known destination for thrilling and fun-packed adventures/water sports in Sri Lanka. From the Colombo bus stand, the location of this beach is only 340 kms away.

What to anticipate?

When visiting and exploring the beauty of the Arugam Bay Beach, the visitor should not forget to plan a trip to the Kumana National Park.

Visiting tips

• Do not forget to check the weather/climate conditions in the area before visiting.
• Visit the popular eateries around the beach to get the best taste of the exotic Sri Lankan cuisine.
• Plan the water sports/adventures to indulge in beforehand.

Location of the beach

Arugam Bay Beach, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The Mount Lavinia

Mount Lavinia tops all lists of the best heritage hotels/attractions in Colombo, Sri Lanka due to the stunning and awe-striking views/sceneries of the divine ocean. It is highly recommended to all visitors to visit this hotel during peak seasons/festival seasons as they will be able to enjoy the benefits of wedding packages, sunset deals/plans, national holiday offers/deals and much more. The most enjoyable part of staying in this beautiful hotel is the rooftop view/scenery of the Laccadive Sea.

What to anticipate?

When planning a stay in this iconic hotel, the visitor is advised to pay a visit to the National Zoological Garden which is located pretty near to the hotel's destination.

Visiting Tips

• Tourists should ensure that they are planning their hotel bookings in Mount Lavinia well in advance.
• Do not forget to enjoy the hotel's facilities such as:- 1. A salon. 2. Shopping arcade. 3. Swimming pools, etc.
• Witness some stunning sunsets and sunrises from the rooftop of the hotel.

Location of the hotel

Hotel Road, Mount Lavinia, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The Khan Clock Tower

The Khan Clock Tower is located at the entrance/entry point of the iconic Pettah market in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The establishment of this Clock Tower was done by a Paris family/clan who bore the last name/surname of Khan. This tower stands in the heartfelt remembrance of Frame Bhikajee Khan.

What to anticipate?

The Khan Clock Tower is a majestic 04-storey tower that stands strong as a symbol of family bonding/love of the Khan family.

Visiting Tips

Visiting this structure is easy from the Colombo bus stand as it is only 02 kms away.

Location of the tower

136 Main St, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Colombo?

The best time/months to travel to Colombo, Sri Lanka is from January to March. This is mainly because the climate is pretty comfortable, dry and pleasing. This makes it perfect for sightseeing/city tours and outdoor activities/adventures. Since May to August are the rainy season months in Sri Lanka, they might not be favourable for many to enjoy certain outdoor activities/adventures.

What Tourist Destinations Should Be Explored in Colombo For A One-Day Trip To The City?

If a visitor is entering Colombo for a 01-day trip to the city, they are recommended to explore these tourist destinations:

• The Viharamahadevi Park.
• The Gangaramaya Temple.
• The National Museum of Colombo.

What Tourist Destinations Should Be Explored in Colombo For A Two-Day Trip To The City?

If a visitor is entering Colombo for a 02-day trip to the city, they are recommended to explore these tourist destinations:

• The Viharamahadevi Park. (1st day)
• The Gangaramaya Temple. (1st day)
• The National Museum Of Colombo. (1st day)
• The Fort Area. (2nd day)
• The Kapikaawatha Shivan Temple. (2nd day)
• The Dutch Period Museum. (2nd day)

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If you are a shopaholic trying to lay your hands on the best Sri Lankan items while touring in the country, we are here to inform you about the best shopping hot-spots in Sri Lanka that should be explored for a fun-filled shopping experience.

What Tourist Destinations Should Be Explored In Colombo For A Three-Day Trip To The City?

If a visitor is entering Colombo for a 03-day trip to the city, they are recommended to explore these tourist destinations:

• The Viharamahadevi Park. (1st day)
• The Gangaramaya Temple. (1st day)
• The National Museum Of Colombo. (1st day)
• The Fort Area. (2nd day)
• The Kapikaawatha Shivan Temple. (2nd day)
• The Dutch Period Museum. (2nd day)
• Indulge in boating at Beira Lake. (3rd day)
• Take a stroll through the Pettah market. (3rd day)
• Explore the Galle Fort. (3rd day)

Frequently Asked Questions About Touring In Colombo

What are the most popular restaurants/eateries in Colombo, Sri Lanka to indulge in the best Sri Lankan delicacies?

For all foodies out there, planning a trip to Colombo, Sri Lanka got even more exciting as you can delight your palate in these iconic restaurants/eateries in Colombo:

• Dutch hospital
• Culture Colombo
• Floor by O

What are some of the most unmissable experiences in Colombo, Sri Lanka?

As a travelling and touring enthusiast, you should not miss out on visiting tourist attractions such as:

• The Viharamahadevi Park.
• Independence Memorial Hall.
• The Arugam Bay Beach and many more.

How is the weather/climate in Colombo, Sri Lanka during the peak tourist/festival seasons?

The weather/climate during the peak tourist/festival seasons in Colombo, Sri Lanka is pretty pleasant and cool. With minimal rain showers, travellers can easily plan a great itinerary for outdoor adventures and hiking/strolling tours. 

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As the name suggests, the sole purpose of a Tourist e-Visa for Sri Lanka is to permit international travellers to enter and stay in Sri Lanka for a short period for the purpose of tourism and leisure. This legal document is generally used for going on a vacation or enjoying holidays in Sri Lanka. The applicant will have to start by filling out the online e-Visa application form which will require them to mention various personal details.