Top Attractions to Explore in Colombo
Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant city with an enchanting mix of history, culture, and modern attractions that intrigue the first-timer and the returning traveler alike. There is also plenty in terms of delicious cuisine and treats, as well as malls and market places to shop for everything from international brands to local products, specialties, and souvenirs. With everything that the city has to offer, there is never a shortage of ‘best things to do’ in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Top Attractions in Colombo
Below, we highlight a few places to visit in Colombo that we believe are must-sees to complete your time in the city.Gangaramaya Temple
Situated in the heart of Colombo, this Buddhist temple is one of the oldest in the city. Dating back to the late 19th century, the temple today functions as a site of worship, as well as a cultural center and a vocational training institute for empowering youth in various occupations. Additionally, the temple accommodates a library that is home to a plethora of religious, historical and academic texts, and a museum that is a treasure trove of old timepieces, religious statues from around the world, Dutch-era coins, and countless other antique collectibles. Its unique architecture features a diverse combination of Sri Lankan, Thai, Chinese, and Indian design aspects. Gangaramaya Temple is known for its annual Navam Perahera celebrations in February and its annual Vesak celebrations in May.
Galle Face Green
Galle Face Green is a half-kilometre stretch of esplanade that borders the Indian Ocean, right in the heart of the city of Colombo. With a total area of 5 ha at present, it was originally known as the Colpetty Race Course when it was laid out in 1859 for horse racing and golf, prior to which it was a British burial ground. Since Sri Lanka’s independence in 1948, Galle Face Green has seen the light of several iconic school cricket matches and large public gatherings. It is currently a popular spot for families, children, couples, and friends to enjoy the endless ocean and sunset views. The place bustles with street food stalls with delicious offerings and vendors of eye-catching kites and toys. It offers a calming yet vibrant atmosphere for a relaxed evening.
Independence Square
Located at Cinnamon Gardens in the heart of Colombo, the Independence Square national monument commemorates the independence of Sri Lanka from British colonialism on 4th February 1948. The open-sided Independence Memorial Hall, its central feature, reflects traditional Kandyan architecture with its tiled roof and stone pillars with ornate designs. Tucked away beneath this hall is the Independence Memorial Museum, which pays tribute to local heroes who were involved in Ceylon’s quest for independence while also narrating the story of the path to independence. In later years, the museum has been updated to pay tribute to heroes from the more recent civil war as well. The nearby Arcade Independence Square is a shopping-dining-entertainment complex that offers a bit of retail therapy and downtime. It is a great spot to relax at and spend a few hours, particularly in the evenings.
Colombo National Museum
The National Museum of Colombo is home to a plethora of historical and cultural artefacts, artwork, and collectibles which depict the history of Sri Lanka from ancient times through Portuguese, Dutch and British colonialism, independence, and the civil war. Also located in the heart of Colombo, this landmark itself is a colonial building surrounded by centuries-old banyan trees and a beautifully curated lawn. A visit would provide comprehensive insight into the rich history and heritage that have made Sri Lanka and its people what they are today.
Old Dutch Hospital Complex
Located in Fort and believed to have existed since around 1681, what used to be a hospital built by the Dutch colonists is now a bustling complex with restaurants, pubs, and shops. One can indulge in a spot of local cuisine, enjoy a bit of live music in the evening, and pick up a few souvenirs to take home or gift within the complex, which retains its colonial structure but has been developed to meet a contemporary set-up. The ambience is best enjoyed in the evenings which is when the vicinitys comes to life.
More Beautiful Places Around Colombo
A stroll through Vihara Mahadevi Park is something that many visitors enjoy if they have a few hours to spare. The park is home to hundreds of large, old trees spread over 45 acres of land, and one can enjoy horse carriage rides, children’s entertainment, bird-watching, and open-air art galleries while there. The Commonwealth War Graves are found at the Borella Cemetery within a beautifully-curated plot for military personnel of the Commonwealth who lost their lives in Sri Lanka during the first and second world wars. The atmosphere and landscaping offer a sense of calming serenity. Jami Ul Afar Mosque in Pettah and Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Kovil in Maradana are two visually stunning places of worship that are worth adding onto a Colombo sightseeing tour.
Best Way to Explore Colombo
While public transport is an option to travel around Colombo, there might be limitations to reaching your destinations of choice, and you might have to adjust your schedule to suit public transport timings. Instead, using a car rental in Colombo would allow you the flexibility to create an itinerary as per your preference to spend as much time as you like exploring the attractions that intrigue you the most. You would not have to worry about transport availability and timings.
Kings Rent-a-Car is one of Sri Lanka’s most dependable car rental services, with a reliable fleet of vehicles, ranging from salon cars to SUVs and 4WDs. Our rates are competitive, and we offer Colombo car rentals with a driver or Colombo car rentals without a driver. Child/infant car seats, jumper cables, first aid kits, and GPS-enabled tablets are optional add-ons.
Visit Kings Rent-a-Car online for rates and options, or WhatsApp us on +94 77 773 9492 for information and inquiries.