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- Lotus Tower. One of the coolest (and highest) places to visit in Colombo is also one of the city's newest things to do. The Colombo Lotus Tower is South Asia's tallest freestanding structure (368 meters/1,168 feet), and a trip to the top rewards visitors with unobstructed views across Colombo and the surrounding cityscape and sea.
- National Museum of Colombo. The National Museum of Colombo, also called the Sri Lanka National Museum, is the official museum of Sri Lanka and takes you on a journey over the thousands of years of Sri Lankan culture.
- Sri Lanka Planetarium. Sri Lanka's first (and only) planetarium can be a fascinating way to escape the hot sun. The Sri Lanka Planetarium is located at the University of Colombo.
- Viharamahadevi Park. This giant green space is Colombo's Central Park (and one of its only large open-space areas) and provides areas to relax and enjoy (or escape from) the sunshine.
THE 30 BEST Things to Do in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple, Mount Lavinia Beach, Sacred & Religious Sites, Sports Camps & Clinics. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
- Temples. If you like visiting temples, Colombo will be a nice introduction to Sri Lanka for you. This city has a rich history and it is home to many temples.
- Bustling markets. Colombo is famous for its lively markets. Here, you will find traditional clothing, gemstones, jewellery, leatherware, spices and much more.
- The Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque. The Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque, is one of the most famous landmarks in Sri Lanka and one of the most unique mosques I have ever seen!
- Colonial architecture. Both the Portuguese (1505 – 1658) as well as the Dutch (1656 – 1796) settled in Colombo and you can still see some beautiful colonial architecture in this city today.
Things to Do in Colombo, Sri Lanka: See Tripadvisor's 258,855 traveler reviews and photos of Colombo tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in October. We have reviews of the best places to see in Colombo. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
- How to Plan A Colombo Trip?
- Colombo Weather and The Best Time to Visit
- How to Reach Colombo
- Best Places to Visit in Colombo
- Nightlife in Colombo
- Things to Do in Colombo
- What to Eat in Colombo
- What to Shop in Colombo
Planning a trip to any new destination requires adequate research in advance — be it in terms of flights, accommodation bookings and visa requirements or the places to visit. For your trip to Colombo, decide on the season you’d be visiting, finalise the dates and book your flight tickets. Start planning your itinerary while considering the mode of ...
December to February makes for the best time to visit since the weather is usually sunny and pleasant to even indulge in outdoor activities. The months between April and October are for monsoons with June to September being the wettest months. Tourist footfall during this season is relatively low. The months of March and April are hot and dry, maki...
Taking a flight to the Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo Airport) situated in Katunayake is one of the best ways to reach the city. The airport is connected to almost all major flights and is an hour’s drive from Colombo. While the city is also connected with the Katunayake Railway Station and daily scheduled trains run to and fro between...
Gangaramaya Temple
Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most prominent tourist spots to visit in Colombo. Built in the 19th century, this Buddhist temple combines Thai, Chinese and Indian architecture and design — the intricacy of which leaves everyone in awe of its beauty. Situated near Beira Lake, it is as much a museum, educating people about Buddhism as much as it is a place of worship. The temple houses plenty of murals, statues, relics and other ancient items like jewellery, antique pieces and coins that tell...
Viharamahadevi Park
With a huge Buddha statue surrounded by fountains as its cynosure, the Viharamahadevi Park is yet another attraction in Colombo that should definitely be on your itinerary. Located close to the Colombo National Museum, it is a picnic spot that makes for that much-needed rejuvenating escape in the city. Offering stunning views of the environs during sunrise and sunset, the park also features a mini zoo, various walking trails and waterfalls on its premises. It’s the perfect place for couples,...
Beira Lake and Seema Malakaya (Malaka) Temple
An experience combining adventure, relaxation and pilgrimage at one spot, the Beira Lake is a fascinating place to explore in Colombo. Ideal for birdwatching, boating, taking photographs or simply ending the day by admiring the sunset, the Beira Lake is a famous destination among both tourists and locals alike. It also features a small island in the centre that has the popular Seema Malakaya Buddhist temple that makes for a peaceful getaway crafted in Indian, Chinese and Thai architectural st...
Bally’s Casino
This is one of the finest casinos in Colombo that makes for an opulent experience, including fine dining, entertainment, innumerable games and a spread of delectable food and cocktails. It also offers different packages to tourists to suit various budgets. If you’re looking for a night of fun and games in the city, trying your luck at Bally’s Casino should definitely be on your bucket list. Additionally, it also houses a luxurious spa where you can indulge in a therapeutic session to rejuvena...
Rhythm & Blues
A happening party destination in Colombo where you can drink and dance until the wee hours, the Rhythm and Blues nightclub is where you should head to if you’re in the mood to party. From DJ nights to live performances, this place has different events scheduled for different nights of the week. Location: 19/1 Daisy Villa Avenue, Bambalapitiya , Colombo Timings: 7 pm to 4 am (Sunday-Wednesday), 7 pm to 5 am (Thursday-Saturday)
Sky Lounge
Located in The Kingsbury Hotel, the Sky Lounge is a popular and chic rooftop bar that’s perfect for a night out of simply unwinding over cocktails and delectable food. Offering panoramic views of the city and the vast skies, the lounge provides just the right atmosphere one needs after a day of sightseeing. Both indoor and outdoor seating options are available here. Location: The Kingsbury Hotel, 48, Janadhipathi Mawatha, Colombo 01 Timings: 5 pm to 12 am
Explore the beaches
While the city is prominently known for its historical landmarks and sacred temples, Colombo also has many beaches just outside of the city that one can head to for a rejuvenating time. Some of the famous beaches and beach parks in and near the city include the Galle Face Green, Crow Island Beach Park, Bentota Beach and Negombo Beach. Most of the beaches can be easily reached via public transport or a private car.
Visit the Attidiya Bird Sanctuary
If you’re an admirer of lush greens and want to experience the beauty of flora and fauna, plan a visit to the Attidiya Bird Sanctuary. It is a bio-diversity park that’s home to insects, crocodiles, jackals, fishing cats, and 50 species of local and migratory birds, including butterflies and other wildlife. It can be explored on foot owing to walking trails and pathways sprawling across the sanctuary land. The place is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers and can be reached easily...
Spend time at a church
Much like temples and the Red Mosque, Colombo is also home to many churches and cathedrals, some even dating back to the 17th century. If such places appeal to you or you simply want to take in the beauty of their architecture and old-world charm, you can plan a visit to some of the most famous ones such as Wolvendaal Church, St. Lucia’s Cathedral, All Saints’ Church and St. Anthony’s Shrine.
One thing that absolutely stands out about Colombo and Sri Lanka in general is the country’s cuisine that’s truly soul-satiating. Whether you wish to try authentic, local Sinhalese street food or indulge in a fine-dining continental spread, this city will never leave you disappointed. Some of the most prominent dishes that you must try when in Colo...
The shopping experience in Colombo is quite diverse, owing to the distinctive shopping destinations that this city encompasses. From malls dealing in high-end brands and local labels to dedicated souvenir stores, street markets and a floating market, there’s so much to experience as a tourist. While you can shop international and local brands at ma...
- Divya Arora
Aug 14, 2023 · Discover the best things to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka with our comprehensive guide. From the historic Fort area to the bustling markets of Pettah, and the city’s stunning temples, our guide covers the top attractions and hidden gems of this vibrant city.
Colombo is the gateway to Sri Lanka for most travelers—but don’t be tempted to simply pass through this diverse and interesting city.
