Explore Colombo
Colombo has been called the commercial capital and the largest city of Srilanka. Extremely rich in culture, tradition, history and unforgettable art and craft of Colombo makes the biggest contribution in the tourism of Srilanka.
There are a lot of places to explore in Colombo, the temples, rich wildlife, and monuments will blow your mind. Here are some of the best places in Colombo that will make you want to plan a trip to this undoubtedly beautiful state soon.
Gangaramaya Temple
It is one of the famous Buddhist temples in Colombo, located on the Beira lake. The architecture of the temple shows a mixture of Indian, Thai, Srilankan, and Chinese architecture. The temple has a museum, a library, a residential hall, a three-storeyed Pirivena, educational halls in its premises. The temple is not only the place of worship of Buddha but it is the center of learning. The main shrine has a buddha statue while the roofs depict their stories.
Things to do in Gangaramaya Temple
- Strolling Along with the museum.
- Explore the relic chamber.
- Capture the beauty of the Bodhiya tree.
- Stroll along the Beira lake.
Best time to visit: November to February.
Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque
It is also called the Red Mosque. In 1990 it was built by the contribution of the Muslim community in the heart of Colombo near the Peetah market. Tourists can admire it from outside at prayer time as only Muslims are allowed to visit inside. The white striped interior and candy-like red patterns on the walls of the mosque are mesmerizing. This is one of the beautiful tourist places in Sri Lanka as people from different countries come to enjoy the rich beauty of this place.
Things to do in Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque
- Capture the beauty of the walls.
- Visit the water tank inside the mosque.
Best time to visit: Always( No such fixed time)
Galle Face Green Promenade
It is an ocean-side urban park spread in a 5 hectare of land in the heart of Colombo. Firstly this place was inaugurated by Governor of British Ceylon, Sir Henry Ward for golf sport. Later this place was introduced as Promenade to attract a large number of visitors. It is considered as the largest space in Colombo. People came here to play different sports like football, cricket, polo, tennis, etc. On the one end of the park you will see Ceylon Intercontinental Hotel while on the other side end, you will see the magnificent Galle Face Hotel.
Things to do in Galle Face Green Promenade
- Watch the sunset at Galle Face Green.
- Capture the beauty of the walls.
- Visit Galle Face Hotel.
- Capture the beauty of Galle Fort.
Best time to visit: Always(5 am to 6 pm)
Kailawasanathan Temple
It is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Sri Lanka. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and situated in the Fort area of Colombo. It is very beautiful and full of colorful statues and paintings. The interior roofs of the temple are decorated with paintings and the exterior walls with statues. This place is well recognized for matrimonial venues. Tourists enjoy the sound of KettiMelam( music that gets played in Tamil weddings). No matter if you are Hindu or from another religion, you must visit this place to enhance its beauty.
Things to do in Kailawasanathan Temple
- Be a part of Arti in Morning or Evening.
- Capture the beauty of paintings.
Best time to visit: Always( Morning, Afternoon, Evening.)
Colombo National Museum
It is the largest museum and also known as Srilanka National Museum. It was built in 1877 by the British Governor – Sir William Henry Gregory. It is the perfect place to learn about the history of Srilanka. You will be able to find national treasures such as thrones, crowns of monarchs when Kandy was the capital. You will also find a huge collection of masks and puppets in the museum. This museum shares the history of Srilanka before and after the British colonists came here.
Things to do in Colombo National Museum
- Spend some time in the library.
- Capture the beauty of a statue of Buddha meditating in the lobby.
Best time to visit: Always except for public holidays.
Dehiwala Zoo
It is also called the National Zoo or Colombo Zoo. It was founded in 1936 and spread in 10 ha of land. It is the home for several species of reptiles, animals, and birds. Tourists from different countries came to enjoy the evening elephant show, sea lions show, and Sanju (a baby chimpanzee) show.at Dehiwala zoo. The zoo has its museum and aquarium as well.
Things to do in Dehiwala Zoo
- Be a part of the Sanju Educational show.
- Spend some time in a butterfly garden with butterflies.
- Enjoy Elephant dance in the Evening.
- Capture the beauty of aquatic animals in aquariums.
Best time to visit: November to February
At Stayfari, we offer Car and Driver services throughout India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Our vehicles are air-conditioned and our drivers speak English. Click here to start planning your next trip with us.