What Are The Notable Tourist Attractions In Colombo?

Colombo is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, and it is one of the most vibrant cities in the world. It has a unique balance of old and new, with colonial-era heritage buildings, modern businesses, and cultural attractions. Known as the “lion city” due to its grandiose city gates, Colombo offers a wealth of attractions that are sure to draw travelers to its shore. Here, we’ll look at some of the noteworthy tourist attractions in this captivating city.

Gangaramaya Temple

The Gangaramaya Temple, also known as the “Gangarama Vihara”, is one of the most spectacular and iconic temples in Sri Lanka. It rests along the banks of the Beira Lake in the center of Colombo, where it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. A traditional Buddhist temple, it boasts an impressive collection of statues, artworks, and antiques. Some visitors are even lucky enough to see the resident monk, who is often seen playing chess with visitors.

Colombo National Museum

For anyone looking for an educational trip, the Colombo National Museum is a great choice. It houses a huge collection of artefacts and artifacts, including national treasures from the Kandyan era and material from various monuments. Its library even contains an extensive collection of books on history, archaeology, and anthropology. The museum also hosts occasional cultural shows and gallery events.

Gall Face Green

Gall Face Green is Colombo’s premier beach park. On the shore of the Indian Ocean, it offers stunning views of the ocean and plenty of places to relax and watch the sunset. The sea breeze here also helps cool off anyone looking to escape the bustling city centre heat. The park is open early in the morning and remains busy until late with joggers, cyclists, and families out for a leisurely stroll. It also has plenty of food vendors nearby who offer tasty local cuisine.

Viharamahadevi Park

Just outside Colombo is Viharamahadevi Park — the oldest public park in Sri Lanka. Commonly known as “Viharam”, this impressive outdoor space offers numerous recreational activities to suit all ages and abilities. There’s mini-golf nearby as well as various sporting facilities such as tennis courts. There is also a playground for younger visitors, complete with a carousel and plenty of other amusements.

National Zoological Gardens

The National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka (also known as the Dehiwala Zoo) was established in 1936 and covers an area of more than 32 acres. It houses a variety of animals from different parts of the world, from monkeys, bears, and tigers to exotic birds and wild cats. There is also a hatchery near the entrance of the zoo that stores several species of endangered wildlife — a perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts and families with kids alike.

The Old Parliament Building And House Of Parliament

A visit to Colombo isn’t complete without exploring its colonial heritage — and one of the best places to do so is at the Old Parliament Building and House of Parliament. Built in colonial style architecture by the British in 1877, the building is still used (albeit with some renovation) today as Sri Lanka’s seat of parliamentary democracy. Visitors can take a guided tour around this ground-breaking building to learn more about how democracy functions in Sri Lanka today.

National Museum Of Natural History

The National Museum Of Natural History houses an extensive collection of rocks, minerals, fossils, insects, shells, oceanic specimens, and other geological specimens which demonstrate Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and natural history — making it an interesting spot for travelers curious about local wildlife and geography. Located close to the main roundabout along Galle Road in Colombo, it’s free to visit and no tickets are required.

Overall, Colombo offers its visitors a wonderful chance to explore its unique past through architecture, culture, and natural history museums. From Gangaramaya Temple to National Zoological Gardens, there is plenty to explore here that appeal to all ages and interests — making it a great way to experience true Sri Lankan culture!

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For more information on tourist attractions in Colombo visit Go Lanka Travel.

An Insider’s Guide to Colombo: Discovering the Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

Colombo is a bustling city that is home to many hidden gems that are waiting to be explored. Beyond the popular tourist sites, there are many unique experiences that you can enjoy during your visit. As a local, I am excited to share with you some of the best lesser-known places to visit and things to do in Colombo.

Local Attractions: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Colombo

Colombo is a city that is full of hidden gems that are waiting to be explored. Some of my favorite off-the-beaten-path attractions include the Floating Market, Independence Arcade, and the Red Mosque. The Floating Market is a unique riverside market that houses local artisanal shops and restaurants. Independence Arcade, located in the heart of Colombo, is a beautifully restored colonial building that now features high-end shops, cafes, and restaurants. Finally, the Red Mosque, located in Pettah, is a beautiful and ornate mosque that is less visited than some of the other sites in the area.

Dining Spots: Exploring the Local Cuisine of Colombo

Colombo is famous for its food culture which is a blend of tastes from all over the world and a fusion of local flavors. If you are looking for some authentic local cuisine, then I recommend trying out the famous Sri Lankan hoppers at Egg Hoppers or the delicious biriyani at Al Maas Indian Restaurant. For an unforgettable dining experience, head over to the Ministry of Crab which is situated in a beautifully restored Dutch era building.

Cultural Experiences: Delving into the Traditions and Arts of Colombo

Colombo is a city of diverse cultures, and as such, there are many traditional art forms, music, and customs to be explored. One of the most popular cultural experiences is attending a Kandyan dance performance at the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. You can also visit the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre which is an ultra-modern performance venue for music, dance, and theatre shows.

Local History: Stories that Bring Colombo’s Past to Life

Colombo has a rich and fascinating history that spans back centuries. A visit to the Colombo National Museum is a must, as it houses an extensive collection of artifacts detailing the city’s past, including the colonial era. For a unique historical experience, I recommend visiting the disused Mount Lavinia Railway Station and Restaurant which was once an important station in the city’s railway network and now serves as a charming beachfront restaurant.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions: Unique and Unforgettable Experiences

If you are looking to create unforgettable memories in Colombo, you might want to try a hot air balloon ride at dawn over the scenic countryside, spend a day vegging on a beach away from the bustling city mood, or visit the Ayurveda spa to experience traditional Sri Lankan herbal treatments. You may also opt for a scenic tour of the city by tuk-tuk, which allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path places at a leisurely pace.

In conclusion, Colombo is a city where ancient traditions blend with modernization, providing an unforgettable experience to all its visitors. Whether you visit the city for its food culture, cultural experiences, or off-the-beaten-path attractions, make sure to take time to experience some of the hidden gems that locals know about and visitors often miss.