Colombo is a city of contrasts, shaped by its colonial past, dynamic present, and ambitious future. These three identities intertwine seamlessly, creating a vibrant tapestry of history and modernity. Over the years, Colombo has transformed from a colonial haven in Cinnamon Gardens into a bustling metropolis adorned with sleek skyscrapers, upscale shopping arcades, and inviting public spaces. Once home to neighborhoods where colonizers held sway, the city has reinvented itself into a cosmopolitan sanctuary.
The blend of tropical weather, the upscale charm of the city, the shades of colonial heritage, and a contemporary lifestyle, makes Colombo an unforgettable experience. Adding to its allure are the impeccably maintained roads—so pristine they could easily make even the most picturesque European towns green with envy.
The spiritual side of Colombo
Colombo is a city steeped in culture and spirituality, best explored through its stunning temples and shrines. Among its most iconic landmarks is the Gangaramaya Temple, a Buddhist place of worship that stands as one of Colombo’s most prominent attractions. Built in the 19th century, this temple combines Thai, Chinese, and Indian architectural styles, captivating visitors with its intricate details and serene ambiance.
Just across from Gangaramaya lies the Seema Malakaya Temple, a tranquil sanctuary floating on Beira Lake, designed by the renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. This modern yet spiritual retreat, in the midst of a lake, offers a peaceful escape amidst the bustling city.
The Pettah’s Red Mosque is a marvel of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Famous for its striking red-and-white façade and unique pomegranate-shaped domes, this mosque is a testament to Colombo’s diverse cultural tapestry and architectural brilliance. The mosque stands out for its red and white striped exterior, that leaves you awe struck. The Red Mosque is one of the most important cultural gems of Sri Lanka.
Another spiritual place to add in Colombo’s itinerary is the Viharamahadevi Park, with its huge Buddha statue surrounded by fountains as its cynosure.
Have an intimate interaction with SriLanka in the National Museum
If learning about the city’s past as well as its natural and cultural heritage interests you, this iconic building from 1877 deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. The former British Governor of Ceylon, Sir William Henry Gregory got it built in Italian-style architecture. Today, the museum housed within its walls boasts exhibits that are over a century old, offering visitors a glimpse into a bygone era.
Some of the other famous museums include National Railway Museum, Traditional Puppet Art Museum and Colombo Port Maritime Museum.
The floating shopping destination of Pettah
Once a swamp with run-down houses, the Pettah floating market now makes for a beautiful shopping destination in Colombo. This market features around 90 stalls selling authentic and local produce and handicrafts, ranging from fresh fruits and vegetables to electronics, art and craft pieces, clothes and jewellery. The Floating Market is a unique blend of tradition and modernity. This picturesque marketplace, built over Beira Lake, offers a serene shopping experience amidst the city’s vibrant chaos. The tranquil waters and charming ambiance make it a perfect spot to unwind.
Stroll along the Galle Face Green
No seaside capital’s itinerary is complete without a nod to its beaches, and Colombo is no exception. Although Colombo is but a dwarf in comparison to other beach locations in Sri Lanka, but an open oceanfront park space like Galle Face Green, offers its own breezy, beach-side charm. This beach park is popular for recreational activities, or for simply relaxing by the ocean waters and soak in the idyllic views.
For those who enjoy a touch of modernity, the nearby Galle Face Mall stands out as a vibrant highlight, catering to shopping enthusiasts. But if you’re seeking something simple yet satisfying, a stroll along the promenade, lined with countless food stalls offering local delights, is an experience no traveler should miss.
What to eat in Colombo
Probably, Colombo will be the start to your Sri Lankan Odyssey. Sri Lankan cuisine is generally soul-satiating – quite spicy but also inviting. And whether you go authentic, local Sinhalese street food, or wish to indulge in high dining, Colombo gives you a lot of options to try. Do try some of these Lankan cuisines –
Lamprais, a culinary treasure from Sri Lanka’s Dutch Burgher community, is a feast for the senses. This iconic rice dish is prepared by cooking rice in rich, flavorful meat stock and combining it with a medley of delights like mixed meat curry, brinjal moju, seeni sambol, meatballs, and shrimp paste. The ensemble them wrapped in a banana leaf and baked.
Rice and curry – a signature Lankan dish that includes rice served with different vegetarian or non-vegetarian curries along with papadams, mallung and pol sambol on the side.
Among the snacks you may try the string hoppers or the idiyappam – a rice-flour steamed noodles served with kiri hodi (coconut milk gravy), pol sambol and meat or potato curry, and deep-fried prawn and lentil crunchy fritters, called the Isso Vadai.
Where to eat in Colombo
Among the favourites would be the Sky Lounge, a popular and chic rooftop bar that’s perfect for a night out of simply unwinding over cocktails and delectable food. The Sky Lounge also offers panoramic views of the city and the skies.
Another upscale place to try in the city is The Floor by O! promising a night of upbeat music and scrumptious food.
Where to stay
Since all the major attractions are near the Central Colombo, try getting a stay options in the Central district. The Railway station and the bus are also in the vicinity. If you wish to have a peaceful beach side stay, then you can try near Galle Face Green or in Mount Lavinia. The Cinnamon Garden and the Kollupitiya are upscale neighborhood, and you will find the museums and art galleries, and boulevards in the vicinity.
