Ever wondered what makes Colombo so special in Sri Lanka? Here are 10 places to visit in Colombo that showcase its importance.
Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, is the largest and most vibrant city in the nation. Among all the various travel destinations, Colombo is a popular one. If you are planning a trip to this island country, don’t forget to visit Colombo.
Let this article work as a guide for you to explore in and around Colombo.
Gangaramaya Temple
Built in the 19th century, Gangaramaya temple is a Buddhist mahaviharaya. It is famous for its cultural importance and architecture. A mixture of Thai, Indian, Sri Lankan, and Chinese architecture, the temple is one of the oldest buildings in the city.
As a cultural centre, the temple organizes various events. You can visit the temple on Poya days, the important days in the Buddhist lunar calendar. All the details are available on the temple’s official website.
Visiting Hours- 6 am to 10 pm
Entry Fees- $4 per person
Galle Face Green
Galle Face Green is an ocean-side urban park. If you want to spend some time relaxing, then Galle Face Green is the best place. Amidst the chaos of this vibrant city, you can hear the sound of the waves. You will find people playing cricket, tennis, polo, etc. here.
The area is open 24 hours a day. There is also no entry fee, so you can visit here anytime. There are various hotels facing the Galle Green. You can book a room here and enjoy your stay with a view.
Independence Square
The national monument of Sri Lanka, Independence Square, is a historical landmark. It is built as a mark of Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule. It is located in Cinnamons Garden, Colombo. It is always open.
Here, you can also visit the Independence Memorial Museum,whicht shows the story of Sri Lanka’s freedom from the colonials. The museum is closed on Sunday and Monday. On other days, the timing is from 9 am to 5 pm. The entry is free for all.
Viharamahadevi Park
This park is located in the same premises as the above, i.e., Cinnamons Garden. Viharamahadevi Park is the largest public park in Colombo, spread over 50 acres. It was originally built by the British and named “Victoria Park”. But post-independence, the name was changed.
The statue of Queen Victoria is now replaced with that of Gautam Buddha’s. There is a mini zoo, water fountains, ducks, etc. The visiting hours of the park are 6 am to 6 pm. Entry to the park is free but if you want to see the zoo or aquarium, you will have to pay LKR 20.
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque was built in 1909 and is a hybrid when it comes to architecture. It is a two-story building with Indo-Islamic, Indian, Gothic, and Neo-classical styles. The unique red and white striped building and a clock tower mark the significant design of this mosque.
The local Muslim community offer their prayers here five times a day. But this mosque has also become a popular tourist destination. In the local language, it is called as Rathu Palliya or the red mosque.
Visiting Hours- 10.30 am to 12 pm, 1-3 pm, 4.15 to 6 pm.
Dehiwala Zoological Gardens
Colombo Zoo or National Zoological Garden of Sri Lanka, is more popularly known as Dehiwala Zoological Gardens. Founded in 1936, the zoological garden is home to a variety of birds, mammals, fishes, etc.
It has a long history, as the Sri Lankan kings kept various pet animals, as did the colonial rulers. These animals were then transferred to this zoo. The area of the zoo is too wide, so make sure you wear comfortable footwear that does not hurt.
Visiting time- 8.30 am to 6 pm.
Colombo National Museum
Sri Lanka National Museum or Colombo National Museum is the largest museum in the nation. Since its foundation in 1877, it has been of national importance. It is because it shows the history of Sri Lanka since ancient times.
The museum building is a delight to watch, and there is a national museum library inside it. the museum is open for visitors every day from 9 am to 7 pm.
Lotus Tower
One of the most exceptional buildings in the world, the Lotus Tower, is a must visit. The tallest self-supported tower in South Asia gives you a city view. There are a total seven floors, each of which offer a new experience.
For Sri Lankans, the entry fee is LKR 500, but for students, it is LKR 200. For all other foreign nationals, USD 20 is the entry fee. The tower is open from 9 am to 11 pm. You can check out all the details on the official website of the Lotus Tower.
One Galle Face
One Galle Face is the largest shopping mall in Colombo. Though it is a multi-use complex, it is more famous for the mall. It faces the Galle Face Green. It was opened recently, in 2019, but since then, it has attracted many visitors.
The mall has a variety of brands and food courts. If you want to spend time enjoying a mall, One Galle Face is a must visit. The mall is open from 10 am to 10 pm.
Colombo port city
This one is a special economic zone. It aims to create new opportunities of investment, business, and financial hubs for the country. Adjacent to the Galle Face Green, the port city offers a dynamic view of Colombo.
It is open to public from 9 am 6 pm every day. It is the Marina Promenade where public visit is allowed. The entry is free for all but you need to pay for four-wheeler parking.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka offers a lot of experiences to its visitors. Colombo is a mix of cultural, architectural, and lifestyle marvels. These 10 places to visit in colombo prove the same. So, whenever you visit Colombo, don’t forget to visit these places.
