Why Are the Streets in Colombo Narrow?

Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka located on its western coast and is the country’s largest city with a population close to one and a half million. The city’s streets are notably narrow and this is for a variety of reasons, including historical and cultural rationale.

Narrow streets are seen throughout cities all over the world, particularly within the older parts of a city where streets are tightly packed, but Colombo has remained this way to remain in tune with its history and culture, making it a unique city to explore.

History

Back hundreds of years ago when the Portuguese colonized Sri Lanka and made Colombo the nations primary port city, the main streets were wide enough to fit a number of horse carts and carriages, but not much wider. As more of the city came to life and its population grew, the area around these main streets was filled out with narrower streets in order to make way for more homes and businesses.

Additionally, most of Colombo was urbanized by the Dutch after they took control of Sri Lanka. As such, the narrow winding streets that make up this part of the city were primarily designed to fit their exact construction needs for the winding roads and due to needing to place homes close to these streets.

Cultural Influence

Given that Colombo is one of South Asia’s oldest cities, its narrow streets were designed well in advance of the cars and trucks that are seen driving through today’s cities. Take for instance, the fact that two wheeled bullock carts were used for transportation for centuries and these carts needed narrow streets for easy navigation when human labor was the sole source of power.

Adding to this, keeping the streets narrow helps maintain a sense of community as small alleys filled with shops, restaurants, small kiosks and other establishments have opened up within these narrow pathways. This makes traditional family-run businesses more likely to thrive as the ease of access they provide are incomparable even to modern day businesses.

The Narrow Streets Are Here To Stay!

Ultimately, while Colombo’s streets are unusually narrow compared to other cities in the world (which some may say make street-navigation difficult), these narrow roads provide both an interesting cultural experience when wandering through neighbourhoods as well as a look into a much different transportation style than what we’re used to in modern cities. Therefore, if you ever visit Colombo, be sure to take your time when roaming around its streets as you can get quite lost if you’re not paying attention!

To learn more about why Colombo’s streets are so narrow, check out this article on ColomboSightseeing.com.

An Insider’s Guide to Colombo, Sri Lanka

Colombo, the bustling capital of Sri Lanka, offers travelers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modernity. The city is vibrant and colorful, filled with historical landmarks, cultural sites, delicious food, and friendly people. With its narrow streets, lively markets, and bustling waterfront, Colombo is a true gem of South Asia.

A Brief History of Colombo

The city of Colombo dates back to the 5th century, when it was a small trading port for Arab, Persian, and Chinese merchants. It was later ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, all of whom left their architectural and cultural imprints on the city. Today, Colombo is a cosmopolitan city that celebrates its mixed heritage through its food, festivals, and people.

Top Local Attractions

There are plenty of attractions to see and experience in Colombo. Here are some of the must-visit sites in the city:

– The National Museum of Colombo: This museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and relics that showcase the country’s history and culture.

– Gangaramaya Temple: One of the most significant temples in Colombo, Gangaramaya is known for its intricate architecture and its collection of Buddhist artifacts.

– Galle Face Green: A beautiful park situated alongside the Indian Ocean, Galle Face Green offers tranquil sunset views, kite flying, and street food vendors.

– Viharamahadevi Park: A charming public park with a large golden Buddha statue and a peaceful lake.

Dining Spots in Colombo

Colombo has a wide range of dining options that cater to all palates and budgets. Here are some of the best places to eat in the city:

– Ministry of Crab: This popular seafood restaurant is known for its delicious crab dishes.

– The Lagoon: A beautiful seafood restaurant located at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel, serving fresh seafood dishes.

– Nuga Gama: A traditional Sri Lankan restaurant located within the Cinnamon Grand Hotel complex, offering buffet-style meals with a variety of Sri Lankan dishes.

– Upali’s: A popular restaurant that serves authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences in Colombo

Colombo is a city steeped in culture and tradition. Here are some cultural experiences you can’t miss in Colombo:

– Observe a traditional Sri Lankan dance performance at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre.
– Visit a tea plantation and learn about the process of tea cultivation at the nearby Dambatenne Tea Factory.
– Explore the Pettah Market, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Colombo, where you can find anything from spices to textiles.
– Attend a cricket match at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, a truly unique sporting experience.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Colombo has some off-the-beaten-path destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some suggestions:

– Visit the Old Colombo Dutch Hospital, a restored colonial building that houses upscale shops and cafes.
– Take a boat ride on the Beira Lake, a picturesque waterway that offers stunning views of the cityscape.
– Visit the Dehiwala Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals, including Sri Lankan elephants and Bengal tigers.
– Explore the Wolvendaal Church, built by the Dutch in 1749 and one of the oldest churches in Sri Lanka.

Conclusion

Colombo is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or leisure traveler, there’s something for everyone in Colombo. So, pack your bags and head to Sri Lanka to experience the magic of this beautiful city.