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This entire island gifted by shining blue water. Therefore, Sri Lanka is most popular for beaches among tourists.   Read More

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In Sri Lanka, you can get experience in water base, air base, earth base and many kinds of activities.  Read More

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within this you can easily find out proper tour itineraries to explore the Sri Lanka. Read More

Mirissa Whale Watching

Blue whales are the biggest animal live on the earth and Mirissa is the one of most suitable spot to watch blue whales and other whales too.  Read More

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This is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka.Yala is home to Asian elephants, leopards and variety of beautiful endemic birds.  Read More

sigiriya popular as eighth wonder of the world among the tourists and it was the one of Asia's oldest landscaped garden.  Read More

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Hello Again Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s Capital Colombo, a port city, with a rich colonial heritage, on the Western coast is a potpourri of races, religions and cultures. Colombo displays the best and worst the country has to offer. The city is a contrast itself, with mansions, lush gardens, fine dining options, shopping malls packed with expensive designer brands standing next to urban slums; diesel fumed congested roads and street markets.

Despite its small size just 37.31 km² Colombo offers a varying selection of experience ranging from taking a tuktuk ride, a visit to Pettah market and eating Kottu to playing a round of golf and having high tea at one of the colonial style hotels overlooking the Indian Ocean.

With many boutiques filled with international brands and local art and fabrics Colombo is the best place to do the last minute shopping and then it’s best to retire to Galle face, Colombo;s playground for some Kottu or Wade.

1.Play a Round of Golf at The Royal Colombo Golf Club  The immaculately manicured greens of the Royal Colombo Golf Club have attracted golfers for 129 years, a slice of golfing history. Visitors welcome. Click Here for more information

2.Enjoy a City Tour Hop on board the exciting open deck double decker of the Colombo City Tour to witness the charm of Colombo Click Here for more information

3.Eat Some Seafood on Mt Lavinia Beach Mt Lavinia is one of Colombo’s more laidback suburbs filled with great seafood restaurants on the golden beach and is named after Lovinia, the gypsy dancing girl who had a secret romance with one of Sri Lanka’s governors.

4.Do Some Last Minute Shopping One of Sri Lanka’s best kept secrets is the shopping opportunities in Colombo –sleek department stores and cool shopping malls are filled with designer clothing, shoes and handbags, plus handicrafts, home furnishings and more.

5.Indulge in a Massage at One Of Colombo’s Spas Featuring serene surroundings and expert masseurs trained in everything from Swedish to Shiatsu.

6.Take in Some Art The Colombo National Museum has some terrific examples of ancient paintings, sculptures and sketches dating back to the 4 th century BC, while if it’s something contemporary you want, the city has a thriving arts scene, with many creative painters exhibiting in local galleries.

7.Visit a Temple The Gangarama Vihara is one of the most venerable temples in the country, decorated with wonderful brass work, stone carvings, and other Buddhist art. Also a place of learning, it houses a museum, complete with residential hall.

8.Visit Dehiwala Zoological Garden Beautifully landscaped 30 acres in which a rich collection of mammals, birds, reptiles and fishes live in harmony with Nature.

9.Get Wet and Wild at Leisure World Sri Lanka’s first amusement and water park features log flumes, roller coasters, and many other thrilling rides for kids and adults. Click Here for more information

10.Sample the Nightlife Colombo has a buzzing scene, with chill-out bars, casinos if you want to try your hand at roulette or baccarat, or cool clubs where you can party until dawn.

11.Eat Some Kothu Rotti The quintessential Sri Lankan snack consists of sliced-up bits of rotti, expertly blended with your choice of chicken, beef, egg, onions, tomatoes and green chillies. Unmissable.

12.Go For a Ride in a Trishaw These motorised three-wheeled chariots are the backbone of Sri Lankan transport – just remember to hang on for dear life!

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17 Best Places to Visit in Colombo

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Freddy Sherman visited Sri Lanka and spent time seeing the sights of Columbo.

Sri Lanka's capital city of Colombo seamlessly combines the incredible culture and history of the island with modern tourist attractions and amenities. The city's unique colonial history (Portuguese, Dutch, and British) adds additional layers to the mix. As the country's capital city, it's also filled with museums and places to visit that illustrate Sri Lanka's rich history.

Too many visitors merely land in Colombo and head directly to one of the country's resort areas. Spend a day or two in the capital, and you'll be rewarded with a deeper understanding of the island's culture.

The main central business district area is known as Fort, and that's where you'll find a lot of the best places to visit in Colombo like government buildings, museums, luxury shopping, and large hotels. The area is named for the original Portuguese fort, which guarded the harbor area. Directly in front of Fort is the Galle Face Green, a large oceanfront park.

Plan your sightseeing in Sri Lanka's capital with our list of the best places to visit in Colombo.

1. Lotus Tower

2. national museum of colombo, 3. sri lanka planetarium, 4. viharamahadevi park, 5. national zoological gardens of sri lanka, 6. nelum pokuna mahinda rajapaksa theatre, 7. mount lavinia beach, 8. national museum of natural history, 9. gangaramaya temple, 10. excel world entertainment park, 11. galle face green, 12. colombo dutch museum, 13. pettah floating market, 14. red mosque, 15. kanatte general cemetery, 16. bere lake, 17. national railway museum, where to stay in colombo for sightseeing, map of places to visit in colombo.

One of the coolest (and highest) places to visit in Colombo is also one of the city's newest things to do. The Colombo Lotus Tower is South Asia's tallest freestanding structure (368 meters/1,168 feet), and a trip to the top rewards visitors with unobstructed views across Colombo and the surrounding cityscape and sea.

The tower, which houses a lot of telecommunications equipment, has an e-sports arena and a 5G VR Innovation Center, a shopping mall (at the base), a revolving fine dining restaurant, and indoor and outdoor observation areas. The tower is also a sight to see from the outside — it's covered in LED lighting and presents seasonal-themed lighting displays each night.

The Lotus Tower, also called the Nelum Kuluna, is designed to replicate a lotus bulb and flower, simultaneously representing the historic culture of the country and its focus on the future.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

The National Museum of Colombo , also called the Sri Lanka National Museum, is the official museum of Sri Lanka and takes you on a journey over the thousands of years of Sri Lankan culture.

It's one of those museums that has multiple types of media, from artwork to artifacts, as well as clothing, jewelry, coins, arms, and craftwork. The displays show both the cultural and natural heritage of the country, presented chronologically, starting with pre-history and leading to the present day.

The Sri Lanka National Museum was started in 1877 during the colonial period by the governor of the island, which was then a British territory called Ceylon.

Give yourself a few hours to fully explore the collections. The museum is housed in its original, grand purpose-built Victorian colonial building in central Colombo near Viharamahadevi Park.

Sri Lanka's first (and only) planetarium can be a fascinating way to escape the hot sun. The Sri Lanka Planetarium is located at the University of Colombo . There's a public entrance across from Independence Square. The large auditorium has 570 seats with a domed ceiling, and the night sky and its constellations are projected onto it.

Aside from the exhibits and programming, the structure itself is architecturally striking and a must-do for Instagram. The lotus flower design shares elements with iconic modernist cathedrals in Liverpool, England, and Brazil.

The Sri Lanka Planetarium is open from 8am to 4pm every day except Mondays. 90-minute public shows are presented on Saturdays at 10am and 2pm, and tickets are less than $1. In addition to the planetarium, there's an outdoor Science Activity Park where kids can play and learn about space exploration and travel.

This giant green space is Colombo's Central Park (and one of its only large open-space areas) and provides areas to relax and enjoy (or escape from) the sunshine. Now named for one of the country's ancient queens, the park was formerly called Victoria Park. Viharamahadevi Park sits between the National Museum of Colombo and City Hall.

The are many fountains in the park, as well as a small zoo . Kids will enjoy the playground. You can visit the Cenotaph War Memorial (a monument dedicated to Sri Lankan soldiers killed in both world wars), as well as the Columbo Public Library , both of which are located in the park. The park is also home to a large, 15-foot-tall Buddha statue , the largest cast brass Buddha statue in the country.

There is a very nice walking path around the perimeter of the park — a lap is about a half-mile (1 kilometer). There are snack stands along the route to get some food and lots of benches and areas to sit and relax. Another fun thing to do is to rent a bicycle and ride on the many designated bike paths.

Formally known as the Dehiwala Zoological Gardens , the city's large Colombo Zoo is located in the Dehiwala area. More than just animals in cages, the zoo focuses on education, as well as animal conservation and welfare. One of the oldest zoos in Asia , it's home to almost 3,000 different animals of all shapes and sizes. The zoo has daily demonstrations with keepers of various animals.

The Columbo Zoo is open seven days a week, from 8:30am to 6pm. In addition to the urban zoo in Dehiwala, in the city of Pinnawala, about two hours outside of Colombo, there is a larger wildlife park, the Pinnawala Zoo and the Pinnawala Elephant Sanctuary , both operated by the country's Department of Zoological Gardens.

This large, modern performing arts complex hosts a wide range of music, dance, and cultural performances. It was recently renamed for the country's former president, Mahinda Rajapaksa. Like many other things in Sri Lanka, the design is intentionally reminiscent of a lotus flower, and the name, "Nelum Pokuna" means lotus pond in the local Sinhala language.

Programming at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre includes symphony performances and opera (Chinese, Sri Lankan, and Western). They also do modern pop concerts . Performances are given in the main auditorium or in the open-air amphitheater. The theater is in central Colombo, across from Viharamahadevi Park.

The theater's schedule can be viewed online, and tickets can be purchased online as well. It's a cool place to visit in Colombo because regardless of what you go to see, you'll find yourself surrounded by locals.

Sri Lanka's main beach resort town , Mount Lavinia is a suburb of Colombo. There are many hotels here, and it can be a good alternative to staying in the city. It's an easy 30-minute drive from downtown Colombo (or a 15-minute train ride) and a fun way to spend an afternoon or a few days.

The main stretch of beach is known as the Golden Mile, and it's filled with tourist-focused businesses, as well as an active nightlife scene. Mount Lavinia has also become popular as an LGBTQ+-friendly area, hosting an annual Pride-themed Rainbow Kite Festival in June.

Use caution when swimming as the beach is not a protected bay, so the water can be very rough during certain times of the year. There are some very nice restaurants along the beachfront promenade, and the beach itself is filled with vendors selling everything from food to bathing suits. If you stay at the beach past 6pm, you'll be rewarded with an incredible sunset view.

There is much history to explore here as well. Be sure to stop in the Mount Lavinia Hotel , built in the early 19th century as the governor's mansion, now a classic, colonial grande dame luxury hotel.

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Sri Lanka

Located right near the Colombo National Museum, across from Viharamahadevi Park in central Colombo, the National Museum of Natural History showcases the country's incredible flora and fauna.

Plants, insects, fish, amphibians, and animals are displayed, exclusively those that are endemic to the country. Many rare animals shown are threatened with extinction. Aside from plants, there are many displays of rocks and minerals, also those that are native to the island.

In addition to the animals and plants, there are skeletons and fossils of ancient and extinct creatures including dinosaurs. The museum is one of the best places to visit in Columbo for families and kids.

This Buddhist temple complex was constructed in the late 19 th century. The temple is a place of worship but also looks to educate people about Buddhism. It's also like a museum, as it showcases a lot of physical items, from jewelry to coins and even a vintage Rolls-Royce.

You can also view the temple's most sacred religious relic, a lock of the Buddha's hair, as well as a sacred tree around which the temple was built. Visit during the February full moon (called "Poya") to see the Gangaramaya Temple's annual colorful religious ceremony, which includes a procession led by the temple's elephant.

The temple complex is in central Colombo not far from Bere Lake.

If you have kids and you're visiting Colombo, this compact amusement center needs to be on your itinerary. The Excel World Entertainment Park is a fun local experience with a shopping mall, a few rides, a bowling alley, an arcade, and a food court . There's also a movie theater (showing Western and Bollywood films). The bowling alley is especially popular, as it's the only one in Colombo.

Things to do at the park include laser tag, a carousel, bumper cars, and a bounce house. If you visit during December, the mall is known for bringing in snow to create an indoor winter wonderland called Snow World. It's the only place in Sri Lanka to celebrate a White Christmas, complete with Santa Claus.

Excel World is right next to Beira Lake.

This large, oceanfront park area is where many Sri Lankans go to play on the beach. The park is between Galle Road and the Indian Ocean, right in the heart of Colombo next to the Fort area.

It's the largest open space in the city and has 500 meters of beach, along with a beachfront promenade filled with vendors . Colombo's hot sunshine means this is also a popular area for night fun — Saturday and Sunday nights are the best times to visit.

You can wade in the water, picnic on the beach, or fly a kite in the ever-present wind. It's a fun place for families, and it's also good for running.

Colombo's colonial history (it's been a British, Dutch, and Portuguese colony at different times) contributes so much to its current culture. You can learn all about the Dutch influence and history of the island at the Colombo Dutch Museum . The collection includes artifacts, artwork, and furniture, as well as arms and militaria. There is information in English.

The museum building was built in the late 17 th century as the official residence of the Dutch governor. The collection highlights the almost 200-year history of Dutch control of the island's coastal areas, from 1640 to 1796. The island, then known as Ceylon, served as a key stop in Holland's world trade, as it sat on one of the important east-west shipping routes of the country's Dutch East India Company.

Starting around the year 2000, this formerly industrial area of Colombo was redeveloped into a thriving floating market with almost 100 vendors. Pettah is in central Colombo, about a five-minute drive from Fort.

The floating market is along a canal, lined with sidewalks and wooden boardwalks. They both line and cross the canal, making it a fun area for shopping, strolling, and people-watching. There is great street food here as well. It's also a fruit and vegetable market. You can buy clothes, crafts, jewelry, and even electronics like phones.

Pettah Floating Market is open from 8am to 8pm; sunset is a great time to visit and for photos (about 5pm).

While you're in the Pettah area, visit the city's incredible Red Mosque, known formally as the Jami Ul-Alfar Masjid. It was built in the early part of the 20 th century and makes quite a statement with its red and white stone minarets, topped with onion- and pomegranate-shaped domes. They tower over the area, and the domes give the building an almost Russian feel to it, architecturally. The style is called "Indo-Saracenic."

The mosque is near the port, and its contrasting red and white colors made it a visual landmark for arriving ships. It's especially interesting, as the red and white bricks are arranged in different patterns. Some swirl, some spiral, and other areas have alternating colors with a near optical illusional effect.

Visitors, both men and women, are welcome to visit the mosque.

Cemeteries can be interesting places to visit, as they permanently document the local culture. Kanatte is the city's main cemetery and was opened in the mid-19 th century. It has a fascinating mix of memorials, representing all religions and beliefs. Each has its own section, and each has their own style of physical memorials.

The cemetery is also a popular place to visit for science fiction fans, as it's the final resting place of iconic sci-fi writer Arthur C. Clarke ( 2001: A Space Odyssey ). Clarke was born in Sri Lanka when it was a British colony and later retired here.

The cemetery is in the Borella area, just south and east of central Colombo.

Another one of Colombo's most popular places to picnic, relax, and go boating or running is Bere Lake. This man-made lake (not to be confused with its larger neighbor, Beira Lake) is surrounded by a lot of green space, yet it's right in the middle of the city.

The area is also filled with jogging paths, and it's a great place for running and biking. There are swan boats you can rent and paddle your way around the lake. There are some snack shops and a floating, fine-dining restaurant. The restaurant is on a boat and floats around during a dinner cruise.

Bere Lake has its own island (connected by a suspension footbridge). The island is a popular spot for couples to take romantic walks. Elsewhere in the lake, there's a small Buddhist temple (Gangarama Seema Malaka) set into the water on several piers. The lake is a great location to take photos, especially at night. You have a beautiful, outdoor environment with the skyline of Colombo as the backdrop.

Train buffs and trainspotters will want to visit this open-air museum in Central Colombo, near the city's main Maradana Railway Station. While there is the larger National Railway Museum in Kadugannawa, near Kandy, this original one in Colombo has a respectable collection of carriages, rolling stock, and locomotives, including many steam engines.

The museum is open every day from 9am to 4pm, closing on holidays.

Luxury Hotels :

• The luxe Cinnamon Grand Colombo is a destination resort with 14 restaurants, two gorgeous swimming pools, a spa, two fitness centers, and tennis courts. It is also located next to one of Colombo's best high-end shopping malls: Crescat Boulevard. The rooms and suites are generous in size and elegantly decorated. There is a pillow menu and 24-hour room service, and if you're traveling with the kids, interconnected rooms are available.
• Taj Samudra Colombo faces the Indian Ocean in the heart of downtown Colombo. The rooms and suites come in a number of configurations, and many have ocean views. Interconnected rooms are available if you're traveling with kids. The property is actually very family-friendly, with kids staying free and children's menus in the restaurants. Amenities include a swimming pool, fitness center, and spa. There is often live entertainment in one of the restaurants at night.
• Another top 5-star choice in the heart of Colombo is The Kingsbury Hotel . Facing the sea, it has classic rooms and suites with a sea-green and white color scheme and glass window walls. There are interconnected room options for families. Amenities include a number of restaurants serving food from across the globe. There is also pool, fitness center, and a spa on-site.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• ME Colombo is a great mid-range choice. The design hotel in the middle of downtown features just 22 rooms all with elegant decor and fabulous views from giant windows. Amenities include an infinity swimming pool, a hot tub, restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic skyline views.
• Another good-value choice is Marino Beach Colombo . The hotel has nearly 300 rooms and suites that are spacious and comfortable, and many have Indian Ocean views. One of the top amenities is the rooftop infinity pool that runs almost the entire length of the building with fantastic views. It also has a large hot tub. Other amenities feature a free breakfast, a restaurant, and a workout room.
• Cinnamon Red Colombo is a centrally located hotel that is good value for money. It offers a mix of trendy rooms and suites with contemporary and colorful decor. Some have ocean views. All come with blackout curtains and are soundproofed. The infinity swimming pool here has fabulous city and ocean views. There is also a restaurant and workout room on-site.

Budget Hotels:

• City Beds The Regent offers soundproof rooms that are spacious and tidy and even have a little bit of style to them. The budget hotel is located near the Old Dutch Hospital Complex. There is a shared kitchen if you want to cook for yourself. Other amenities include a 24-hour front desk, parking, and airport transport.
• Another good budget choice is the Sapphire Hotel . It has colorful rooms including family rooms. Amenities include a swimming pool, a restaurant serving a complimentary breakfast, and free parking.

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Visiting Sri Lanka: There is more to see here than just Colombo. If you are in the process of planning your trip to Sri Lanka and wondering where to go and what to do, see our guide to the Top Tourist Attractions in Sri Lanka . For sun and sand, be sure to have a read through our list of the Best Beaches in Sri Lanka .

Things to Do in Galle

Where to Safari

Best Beaches

Adventurous Things to Do

Top Dishes to Try

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Bandaranaike International Airport Guide

Top Destinations in Sri Lanka

Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Things to Do in Colombo

The 16 Best Things to Do in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Shakeel Sha / Getty Images

Although travelers are often in a hurry to get farther afield, there are plenty of fun things to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s busy capital. Dutch and British colonial architecture, urban parks, ancient temples, and great food are among the many reasons to give Colombo a chance.

Colombo’s urban sprawl goes on in every direction; however, the city is carved into distinct neighborhoods—each with a name and number. International visitors end up spending most of their time in the action-packed neighborhoods of Fort (Colombo 1), Pettah (Colombo 11), and Cinnamon Gardens (Colombo 7).

Indoor attractions in Colombo may close for the many Buddhist holidays (usually on the full moon of each month) and other public holidays. Fortunately, many of the best things to do in Colombo are free and outdoors. Be patient: Parks, temples, and the beach become extra crowded on weekends and holidays.

Get Overwhelmed in Pettah

photoaliona / Getty Images

Strolling around aimlessly on a sunny day is the best way to get to know Colombo, and the best place to begin is Pettah.

Just east across the moat from the Fort neighborhood, Pettah is the busiest part of Colombo. Wandering around Pettah is an essential experience—although, expect to have senses completely overwhelmed. The busy streets and sidewalks stay jammed with pedestrians and tuk-tuks.

Pettah is home to a scattering of markets (including a floating market), the Old City Hall, a Dutch church dating to 1749, the Dutch Period Museum, and the Red Mosque.

Visit a Photogenic Mosque

StreetFlash / Getty Images

While shuffling around Pettah, make time to stop by the Red Masjid (Red Mosque)—an iconic mosque constructed in 1909. You’ll know you’ve found it by the red-and-white, candy-cane pattern implemented in the design. Allegedly, sailors arriving by sea could recognize the landmark before any other, and know they were coming into Colombo.

The Red Masjid is squeezed onto busy 2nd Cross Street near the sea end.

Visit the National Museum

Imagebook / Theekshana Kumara / Getty Images

Opened in 1877, the National Museum in Colombo houses royal regalia, crowns, and many artifacts pertaining to the history of ancient Sri Lanka. The white building itself is a beautiful example of colonial, Italian-style architecture.

The National Museum of Natural History is adjacent to the National Museum; you’ll spend more time inside the latter, but the Museum of Natural History is too convenient to skip.

Both museums are just across the street from Viharamahadevi Park; they are open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A combo ticket for entrance to both is around $6.30.

Enjoy the Collection at Gangaramaya Temple

Boy_Anupong / Getty Images

Located on Beira Lake, Gangaramaya Temple houses scores of Buddha statues and rare relics. Although not well curated or organized, the temple also serves as a museum with a surprising array of items, including gold coins and unusual antiques. A small art gallery on site is a bonus.

The temple is very much still in use as a place of worship and learning. Dress appropriately and follow good temple etiquette when visiting.

Reflect by Beira Lake

Nearby Beira Lake is the perfect setting to contemplate all you saw inside Gangaramaya Temple. Seema Malaka, a peaceful place of meditation, is situated directly on the water. Local master architect Geoffrey Bawa redesigned the temple in 1976 after the first one sank.

The bodhi tree at Seema Malaka was grown from a branch of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura, considered to be the oldest, human-planted tree (known planting date is 288 BC). It was started with a branch from the bodhi tree in Bihar, India, under which Gautama Buddha is said to have gained enlightenment.

Enjoy Sri Lankan Street Food

Peter Stuckings / Getty Images

String hoppers, samosas, kottu roti, and curry are arguably the four most popular street-food snacks you’ll find in Colombo; but that’s just the tip of a delicious iceberg. All markets will have more than enough local specialties to try ! You’ll find the most variety in one place around Pettah (especially near the train station) and along Galle Road. For seafood, wander the strip parallel to Mount Lavinia Beach and Galle Face Green.

Tour a Famous Architect’s House

Geoffrey Bawa was a celebrated Sri Lankan architect whose work influenced well-known architects throughout the world. Elements of his designs are especially prominent in Asia, where balancing modern and traditional values is considered important.

Geoffrey Bawa’s impressive house in the southern part of Colombo can be enjoyed on a 45-minute guided tour Monday through Friday at 10 a.m., 2 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.; Sundays at 11 a.m.

Enjoy the Landscaping in Viharamahadevi Park

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You’ll probably want a break after the busyness of Pettah, and Viharamahadevi Park is the answer. The urban park has a jogging/cycling trail, amphitheater, golden Buddha statue, and pleasant landscaping. Don't be alarmed by the giant fruit bats sleeping in the trees overhead: They are harmless!

Viharamahadevi Park is in Cinnamon Gardens, a 15-minute walk southeast from Beira Lake. The park is anchored by the Colombo Public Library on the southwest side and Colombo Town Hall on the northeast side.

Find Some Peace at Independence Memorial Hall

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Independence Memorial Hall is an expansive, open-air structure that was finished in 1953 to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule. You can stroll around the area or rent a bicycle and ride the length of Independence Walk. Aside from a few touts who approach tourists, the area is a peaceful, tree-lined respite in Colombo.

Independence Memorial Hall can be found just southeast of the National Museum and Viharamahadevi Park.

Go to Mount Lavinia Beach

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Sri Lanka’s best beaches are located in the southern part of the island . But if time is short or you want to enjoy some seafood within sight of the water, Mount Lavinia Beach is a good option. It's only 30 minutes south of the city, and the Mount Lavinia Hotel allows non-guests to use the pool area for a small fee.

Any of the southbound buses plying the main A2 highway will drop you at Mount Lavinia Beach, or you can take the train to Mount Lavinia Station.

Admire and Shop for Local Art

If you’d like something creative from Sri Lanka to take home, you can find it at the Nelum Pokuna art “street,” a sidewalk art market near the well-designed Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa performing arts theater. Local artists show off and peddle their work; some is original while many paintings are replicas.

See the art on display at the southern edge of Viharamahadevi Park, just opposite the National Museum of Natural History.

Watch a Sunset at Galle Face Green

Guido Cozzi / Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

If the weather is nice—as it often is outside of monsoon season —Galle Face Green is an ideal place for fresh air, sunsets, and street food. The seafront promenade stays busy with couples and local families who are often happy to chat. A long, spacious lawn is perfect for letting kids run or just lounging to watch locals fly kites.

Get to Galle Face Green on the coast directly south of the Fort neighborhood.

Shop in an Old Dutch Hospital

The Old Colombo Dutch Hospital is thought to have been around since 1681, making it one of the oldest buildings in town. The restored heritage building was converted into a shopping-and-eating district in 2011. Prices and products target tourists; however, the setting and history merit a walk through.

Find the hospital in the center of the Fort neighborhood.

Visit an Indoor Aquarium

Water World Lanka, located a 40-minute drive east of the Fort, is an indoor aquarium with more than 500 varieties of fish. Underwater tunnels, educational shows, and an outdoor bird park entertain guests seven days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Although snorkeling or diving to see marine life without the glass would be even better, Water World Lanka is a great option for experiencing some of Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity.

If the birds are the most exciting part for you, consider adding a trip to the Beddegana Wetland Park to enjoy many of Sri Lanka’s 500-plus bird species. Elevated boardwalks twisting through mangroves allow visitors to get up close for photos.

Marvel at an Ancient Temple

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara (often shortened to Kelaniya Temple) is an ancient temple that dates back before 500 BC, and was destroyed but rebuilt in the early 1900s. The original stupa there allegedly contains a jewel-encrusted throne used by Buddha, who is also said to have visited the temple. Many walls and ceilings are intricately carved or painted with scenes from the life of Buddha.

Kelaniya Temple is located a 30-minute drive west of the Fort neighborhood.

Explore the Fort Neighborhood

The Fort neighborhood is home to Colombo’s financial district (including the Colombo Stock Exchange) and is the epicenter of Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Historic buildings from British and Dutch rule are squeezed into it, while the president’s house and various government buildings can be seen situated between the manicured gardens.

Fort is on the coast just south of Colombo Harbour.

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• Sri Lanka’s west coast

Sri Lanka’s west coast is the island’s front door and – via the international airport at Katunayake just outside Colombo – the point of arrival for all visitors to the country (at least pending the opening of the new international terminal at Hambantota). This is Sri Lanka at its most developed and populous: the busiest, brashest and most Westernized region in the country, home to the capital city and the principal coastal resorts, which have now all but fused into an unbroken ribbon of concrete which meanders along the seaboard for over a hundred kilometres.

Accommodation in Colomobo

Eating in colombo, colombo nightlife and entertainment, shopping in colombo, kalpitiya peninsula, south of colombo.

Situated about two-thirds of the way down the west coast, Sri Lanka’s sprawling capital, Colombo, is usually low on visitors’ list of priorities, although beneath the unprepossessing surface lies an intriguing and characterful city which offers a fascinating microcosm of contemporary Sri Lanka. North of Colombo is the busy resort of Negombo, whose proximity to the airport makes it a popular first or last stop on many itineraries, while further up the coast is the idyllic Kalpitiya peninsula, with deserted beaches and superb dolphin-watching, and – a short drive inland – the vast Wilpattu National Park, now slowly regaining its former glory after decades of upheaval during the civil war.

South of the capital lie the island’s main beach resorts. The principal areas – Kalutara, Beruwala and Bentota – are home to endless oversized hotels catering to vacationing Europeans on two-week packages. Pockets of serenity remain, even so, along with some characterful hotels and guesthouses, while further south lies Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka’s original hippy hangout, now rather past its best, though it does retain a certain down-at-heel charm and (by sleepy Sri Lankan standards at any rate) a refreshingly upbeat atmosphere thanks to the backpackers who still flock here for cheap sun, sand and surf.

Sri Lanka’s dynamic capital, COLOMBO, seems totally out of proportion with the rest of the country, stretching for 50km along the island’s western seaboard in a long and formless urban straggle that is now home to around three million people. The city’s sprawling layout and congested streets make it difficult to get to grips with, while a lack of obvious charms means that it’s unlikely to win many immediate friends, especially if your first taste of the capital is via the hour-long drive from the airport through the northern breeze-block suburbs and hooting files of weaving traffic.

There’s plenty to enjoy beneath the unpromising exterior, especially if you’re interested in getting behind the tourist clichés and finding out what makes contemporary Sri Lanka tick – it’s definitely a place that grows on you the longer you stay, and is worth a day out of even the shortest itinerary. The city musters few specific sights, but offers plenty of atmosphere and quirky character: a heady admixture of Asian anarchy, colonial charm and modern chic. Shiny office blocks rub shoulders with tumbledown local cafés and shops, while serene Buddhist shrines and colonial churches stand next to the garishly multicoloured towers of Hindu temples – all evidence of the rich stew of races and religions that have gone into the making of this surprisingly cosmopolitan city. And for sheer adrenaline, a walk through the crowded bazaars of the Pettah or a high-speed rickshaw ride amid the kamikaze traffic of the Galle Road have no rival anywhere else in the country.

Brief history of Colombo

In the context of Sri Lanka’s almost 2500 years of recorded history, Colombo is a relative upstart. Situated on the delta of the island’s fourth-longest river, the Kelani Ganga, the Colombo area had been long settled by Muslim traders who established a flourishing trading settlement here from the eighth century onwards, but only rose to nationwide prominence at the start of the colonial period. The Sinhalese called the port Kolamba, which the poetically inclined Portuguese believed was derived from the Sinhalese word for mango trees (kola meaning “leaves”, and amba meaning “mango”); it’s more likely, though, that kolamba was an old Sinhala word meaning “port” or “ferry”.

The colonial period

The first significant settlement in the area was 13km northeast of the modern city centre at Kelaniya, site of a famous Buddhist shrine which had developed by the thirteenth century into a major town; the nearby settlement of Kotte, 11km southeast of the modern city, served as the capital of the island’s main Sinhalese lowland kingdom from the fourteenth to the sixteenth centuries. Despite the proximity of both Kelaniya and Kotte, however, Colombo remained a relatively insignificant fishing and trading port until the arrival of the Portuguese in 1518. The Portuguese constructed the fort that subsequently formed the nucleus of modern Colombo and, in 1597, attacked and destroyed both Kotte and Kelaniya. Portuguese control of Colombo only lasted until 1656, however, when they were ousted by the Dutch after a seven-month siege. The Dutch remained in control for almost 150 years, rebuilding the fort, reclaiming land from the swampy delta using the system of canals that survive to this day, and creating spacious new tree-lined suburbs.

In 1796, Colombo fell to the British, following Dutch capitulation to the French in the Napoleonic Wars. The city was made capital of Ceylon, while new road and rail links with Kandy further enhanced the city’s burgeoning prosperity. With the construction of a new harbour at the end of the nineteenth century, Colombo overtook Galle as the island’s main port, becoming one of the great entrepôts of Asia and acquiring the sobriquet the “Charing Cross of the East” thanks to its location at the crossroads of Indian Ocean trade.

Independence and civil war

Colombo retained its importance following independence, and has continued to expand at an exponential rate ever since, though not without sometimes disastrous side effects. Growing islandwide Sinhalese–Tamil tensions erupted with tragic results in mid-1983, during the month subsequently christened Black July, when Sinhalese mobs, with the apparent connivance and encouragement of the police and army, went on the rampage throughout the city, murdering perhaps as many as two thousand innocent Tamils and reducing significant portions of the Pettah to ruins – a watershed in Sinhalese–Tamil relations which led, almost inevitably, to fully fledged civil war. During the civil war itself, the city was repeatedly targeted by LTTE suicide bombers, most notably in 1996, when the massive truck-bombing of the Central Bank killed almost a hundred people and succeeded, along with other attacks, in reducing Colombo’s historic Fort district to a heavily militarized ghost town which is only now slowly recovering from its wartime trauma.

Despite its traumatic recent past, the city’s irrepressible commercial and cultural life continues apace, now mainly concentrated in the southern suburbs of Kollupitiya and Bambalapitiya, and in the rebuilt and revitalized Pettah. And for all its problems, Colombo remains a fascinating melting pot of the island’s Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, Burgher and expatriate communities, who combine to give the place a uniquely forward-thinking and outward-looking character quite unlike anywhere else in the island – one which gives a glimpse of what a multi-ethnic, twenty-first-century Sri Lanka might become, communal tensions permitting.

Colombo: getting oriented

Colombo is a confusing city. There’s no single focal point, and it’s more helpful to think of it as a collection of disparate neighbourhoods than as a single, coherent urban space. At the heart of the old colonial city, the moribund and bomb-afflicted Fort district, Colombo’s former administrative and financial centre, offers a stark reminder of the conflicts which have beset modern Sri Lanka, while to the east and south lie the bustling mercantile district of the Pettah and the engaging temples and old-fashioned street life of Slave Island. From here, it’s a short walk or tuktuk ride to Galle Face Green – perfect, after a hard day’s exploring, for an evening stroll along the seafront promenade and a sundowner at the historic Galle Face Hotel.

South of the Green, the sulphurous Galle Road runs through the suburbs of Kollupitiya and Bambalapitiya, the heart of the modern city, and home to many of Colombo’s best shopping and eating venues. Inland, the leafy streets of Cinnamon Gardens conceal further places to stay, eat and drink, as well as the tropical oasis of the Viharamahadevi Park and the city’s excellent National Museum. Further south are the more downmarket suburbs of Wellawatta and Dehiwala, home to the national zoo, and the attractive beachside suburb of Mount Lavinia, 10km from the city centre.

Colombo has an over-supply of top-end hotels aimed at business travellers, plus a growing number of chic boutique hotels. Unfortunately, there’s a paucity of good budget options. It pays to book in advance, especially if you’re planning on staying at one of the smaller guesthouses, when you may need to reserve a week or more ahead. Never turn up at a small family-run guesthouse unannounced; you’re unlikely to find a vacancy and the owners won’t appreciate having unexpected visitors on their doorsteps, especially if you arrive at some ungodly hour of the night or morning.

Budget Accommodation in Colombo

Although there are limited options for Bugdet hotels in Colombo, they do exist if you can be patient and look for them. Most families offer guest houses however there are also a range of hostels and cheap-hotels to choose from.

Island Hostels - Colombo

Island Hostels is a chain of hostels in various cities across Sri Lanka. Their hostel in Colombo is especially nice, and somewhat luxurious for a hostel. The accommodation includes a beautiful garden terrace and swimming pool. The dormitory rooms are pod-like with modern interior, reception is open 24 hours and it is located close to sites that are of high interest in the city such as the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple.

Marino Beach Hotel - Colombo

Marino Beach Hotel is one of those hotels that travellers can only dream of in a foreign country. The hotel boasts one of the best continental breakfasts that leaves guests feeling full and happy in the mornings. As given away by the name, the Marino sits on the beach and has an infinity pool with ocean views and a beautiful garden to explore. The rooms here range from average to luxurious making it ideal for every budget, you can choose from a regular hotel room for a fair price or a king suite with coastal views for a higher cost.

Luxury Colombo Accommodation

In Colombo, you will have no issues finding luxury accommodation. However, to make things easy here are the best rated in the city.

Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo

As with all cities, Shangri-La is often top of the list for luxury hotels. The Shangri-La in Colombo offers top of the range service and rooms with ocean and city views. The interior of the bar is typical stylish Sri Lankan decor as with their spa facilities. There is a terrace pool, an outdoor dining area and a variety of restaurants.

55TG Boutique Suites, Colombo

These boutique suites offer luxury alongside shabby chic interior. The kitchen, lounge and garden terrace are shared areas to socialise with other guests and rooms are spacious, with every detail of the decor thought-through. Beautiful gardens are free to roam and the onsite restaurant is well catered to all needs with options for vegan, halal and dairy-free.

Eco-friendly Colombo Accommodation

If you are wanting to be close to nature there are many eco-lodges that focus on just this outside of the city.

Rainforest Eco-Lodge, Sinharaja-Deniyaya

This eco-lodge sits just outside of Colombo near the Sinharaja tropical rainforest. The lodges sit on a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a Biosphere Reserve making it a hot spot for biodiversity. The lodge runs on sustainable energy and water and has waste management schemes that significantly reduce their carbon footprint. If you are wanting to relax and be one with nature, this is the eco-lodge for you.

Colombo is far and away the best place to eat in Sri Lanka – the city boasts pretty much the full range of Asian and European cuisines, including an excellent selection of Sri Lankan, Chinese and Indian (both north and south) restaurants. If your stomach’s acclimatized, there are innumerable lively little local cafés – clustered all over Slave Island, down Galle Rd and around the Pettah – which really come alive after dark. Lunch packets are sold by pavement stalls and cafés all over the city – a decent-sized helping of simple rice and curry costs around Rs.150–200.

Colombo’s nightlife is gradually recovering some modest momentum following the conclusion of the war and increasingly relaxed security situation. There’s a fair spread of places to drink, although nightclubs are more or less nonexistent.

Gambling is legal in Sri Lanka making it a popular activity in regards to Colombo nightlife. The larger casinos are the best, where they offer trust and respect. Open 24 hours, they often use their tactics of free food and drinks to encourage tourists and locals alike to stay longer and play games. The best ones in Colombo are Bally's and Bellagio.

As you will notice with the nightlife in Colombo, the crowd is often enthusiastic travellers looking for a fun time. Many of the bars in Colombo are perfect for just this, and often they are kind to your wallet. From sophisticated rooftop bars such as ON14 to quirky bars that feature recycled interior such as Loft Lounge. As with most cities, Colombo also has an Irish bar hidden in Nawam Mawatha named Molly's Pub. The pub offers a warm and friendly atmosphere and often plays live music.

Finding a decent club in Colombo is more of a task as bars are the most popular option. However, do not be disheartened as there are clubs to choose from (although limited) should you wish for full-fledged clubbing. Clique and Disques are the top recommended, although expensive. Males are requested to pay an entrance fee and drinks are pricey but the music is considered good, with a range of hip-hop tunes and current hits.

Not Feeling Colombo Nightlife?

If you don't fancy a night full of drinking in Colombo, there are other charming alternatives. You can take a guided night tour of the city and see Colombo from a new perspective. Cities often feel like two totally different places during the day and during the night, Colombo is no exception to this. The guide combines a boat ride on the Diyawana River and covers lots of interesting sites. Another alternative is to watch the sunset at Mount Lavinia.

Colombo has a good range of shops, and a day trawling through the city’s handicrafts emporia and chic boutiques can be an enjoyable way to end a visit and offload surplus rupees. You’ll find the best of Sri Lanka’s modest traditional handicraft production on sale at various places around the city, as well as at characterful modern shops, such as Barefoot, which offer chic contemporary takes on traditional designs – everything from stationery and stuffed toys to fabrics and kitchenware – and all at bargain-basement prices. The only fly in the soup is the fact that in virtually all establishments (except Barefoot) you’ll be tailed obsessively during your browsing by the shops’ under-employed sales assistants – though whether this is so that they can be of immediate service when required or because they suspect all foreigners of being closet shoplifters remains unclear. Colombo also boasts an excellent selection of bookshops, a plethora of jewellers and, of course, plenty of tea shops. When buying handicrafts, remember that the export of antiques (classified as any object more than fifty years old) is prohibited without a licence (see Average monthly temperatures and rainfall).

East of Fort, the helter-skelter bazaar district of the Pettah is Colombo’s most absorbing area, and feels quite unlike anywhere else in Sri Lanka. The crush and energy of the gridlocked streets, with merchandise piled high in tiny shops and on the pavements, holds an undeniable, chaotic fascination, although exploring can be a slow and rather exhausting process, made additionally perilous by the barrow boys and porters who charge through the crowds pulling or carrying huge loads and threatening the heads and limbs of unwary tourists.

Shops in the Pettah are still arranged in the traditional bazaar layout, with each street devoted to a different trade: Front Street, for example, is full of bags, suitcases and shoes; 1st Cross Street is devoted to hardware and electrical goods; 3rd Cross Street and Keyzer Street are stuffed with colourful fabrics, and so on. The wares on display are fairly mundane – unless you’re a big fan of Taiwanese household appliances or fake Barbie dolls – although traces of older and more colourful trades survive in places.

Unlike the rest of Colombo, the district retains a strongly Tamil (the name Pettah derives from the Tamil word pettai, meaning village) and Muslim flavour, as evidenced by its many pure veg and Muslim restaurants, quaint mosques, Hindu temples and colonial churches (many Sri Lankan Tamils are Christian rather than Hindu). Even the people look different here, with Tamil women in gorgeous saris, Muslim children dressed entirely in white and older men in brocaded skullcaps – a refreshing change from the boring skirts and shirts which pass muster in the rest of the city.

North of Chilaw (and about 8km before reaching the town of Puttalam), a side road branches off west, threading its way across the beautiful, windswept Kalpitiya peninsula, fringed with unspoilt beaches and bounded on opposite sides by sea and lagoon. The peninsula’s considerable tourist potential (especially given its relative proximity to the international airport) remains largely unexploited as yet, and government plans to establish a $4 billion tourist zone near Kalpitiya town, complete with luxury resort, golf course and airstrip, have thankfully so far come to naught. For the time being, tourism remains low-key, centred on the marvellous cluster of eco-resorts at beautiful Alankuda Beach.

Kitesurfing at Alankuda

Alankuda is also a prime spot for kitesurfing, thanks to the strong winds which blow down either side of the peninsula: beginners head for the calmer waters of the lagoon; more advanced kiters head out onto the ocean waves. There are two kitesurfing schools, one at Bar Reef Resort (May–Oct), and the independent Kitekuda ( t 072 223 2952, w srilankakiteschool.com ), offering equipment and tuition from beginners to advanced levels, plus a kite camp with inexpensive bungalow accommodation. The best time for kiting is from May to September, when the winds gust most strongly; kiting at other times of year is also possible apart from April and November, when the winds die away to nothing.

In addition to kitesurfing, a range of other watersports including snorkelling, kayaking and deep-sea fishing can also be arranged. There’s particularly good diving in the nearby Bar Reef, home to some of Sri Lanka’s most pristine and biodiverse coral gardens, home to over 150 types of coral and almost 300 species of tropical fish.

The coast south of Colombo is home to Sri Lanka’s biggest concentration of resort hotels, catering particularly to a German and, increasingly, Russian clientele. This is the best-established package-holiday area on the island, and some parts, notably the main stretches of beach at Kalutara, Beruwala and Bentota, have largely sold out to the tourist dollar – if you’re looking for unspoilt beaches and a taste of local life, these aren’t the places to find them. Away from the big resort areas, pockets of interest can still be found, particularly at the lively town of Aluthgama, backing the Bentota lagoon, and Ambalangoda, the main centre for the production of the island’s eye-catching masks. Further south lies the old resort of Hikkaduwa, still one of the liveliest places along the coast, with good surfing, snorkelling and diving.

Heading south out of Colombo, the heaving Galle Road passes through a seemingly endless succession of ragtag suburbs before finally shaking itself clear of the capital, though even then a more or less continuous ribbon of development straggles all the way down the coast – according to Michael Ondaatje in his celebrated portrait of Sri Lanka, Running in the Family, it was said that a chicken could walk along the roofs of the houses between Galle and Colombo without once touching the ground. The endless seaside buildings mean that although the road and rail line run close to the coast for most of the way, you don’t see that much of the sea, beaches or actual resorts from either.

Just over 40km from Colombo, bustling KALUTARA is the first town you reach travelling south to retain a recognizably separate identity from the capital. It’s one of the west coast’s largest settlements, but the long stretch of beach north of town remains reasonably unspoilt, dotted with a string of upmarket hotels. Sitting next to the broad estuary of the Kalu Ganga, or “Black River”, from which it takes its name, Kalutara was formerly an important spice-trading centre, controlled at various times by the Portuguese, Dutch and British. Nowadays, it’s more famous as the source of the island’s finest mangosteens.

Low-country dancing

The masks you’ll see at Ambalangoda (and elsewhere around the island) were originally produced to be worn by performers in low-country (southern) dances, either in devil dances or kolam. Many Sri Lankans still believe that diseases and illness can be caused by demons, and the purpose of the devil dance – more strictly known as an exorcism ceremony (bali) or healing dance (sunni yakuma) – is to summon up the demons who are causing a person sickness, make offerings to them and then politely request that they leave their victim in peace. There are various groups of demons – five yakka demons, twelve pali demons and eighteen sanni demons; each is believed to be responsible for certain diseases, and each is represented by its own mask, which is worn by a dancer during the exorcism ceremony (all 35 individual masks are sometimes combined into a single enormous medicine mask). Devil dances are still occasionally performed in rural villages, although you’d have to be very lucky to see one.

The origins of the kolam dance-drama are popularly claimed to date back to the mythical Queen Menikpala, who while pregnant developed a craving to witness a theatrical performance. Vishvakarma, the god of craftsmen and artists, is said to have given the king the first kolam masks and the plot of the entire entertainment. The traditional kolam performance features a sequence of dances held together by a rather tenuous plot based around the visit of the pregnant Queen Menikpala and her husband, King Maha Sammatha, to a village. The performance traditionally comprises a medley of satirical and royal dances, featuring characters such as the king’s drunken drummer, a lecherous village clerk, assorted village simpletons, a couple of propitious demons, a lion and, of course, the royal couple themselves. Unfortunately, complete kolam performances are no longer staged, so it’s impossible to experience this unique Sri Lankan medley of folk tale, demonic superstition and history (laced with a touch of Buddhism) – though you can at least still enjoy the masks.

BERUWALA is Sri Lanka’s resort destination par excellence, perfect if you’re looking for an undemanding tropical holiday with hot sun, bland food and characterless accommodation. Big resort hotels stand shoulder to shoulder along the main section of the broad and still attractive beach – Beruwala’s so-called “Golden Mile” – often separated by stout fences and security guards from contact with the ordinary life of Sri Lanka outside.

That, at least, is the normal state of affairs, although at present Beruwala is undergoing a temporary hiatus thanks to major redevelopment all along the seafront. A couple of landmark hotels (the Riverina and Tropical Villas) are currently closed for renovations, while several new hotels, including the massive Chaaya Bey, are under construction further up the beach on the site of resorts destroyed in the tsunami. Much of the strip is thus currently an enormous building site, while the relative lack of visitors means that the whole place feels strangely deserted compared to its normal bustling self. Expect the whole resort to be back up and running again by sometime in 2014.

Beach and resorts aside, the area (including neighbouring Bentota) has also developed into Sri Lanka’s major centre for Ayurvedic treatments; most of the larger hotels offer massages and herbal or steam baths, and there are also a number of specialist resorts (see Ayurveda: the science of life).

North of the resorts, scruffy Beruwala town is where Sri Lanka’s first recorded Muslim settlement was established, during the eighth century. On a headland overlooking the harbour at the northern end of town, the Kachimalai Mosque is believed to mark the site of this first Arab landing, and to be the oldest on the island. Containing the shrine of a tenth-century Muslim saint, it’s an important pilgrimage site at the end of Ramadan.

Bentota and around

South of Aluthgama, BENTOTA offers a further clutch of package resorts, plus an outstanding selection of more upmarket places. The beach divides into two areas. At the north end, facing Aluthgama, lies Paradise Island (as it’s popularly known), a narrow spit of land beautifully sandwiched between the choppy breakers of the Indian Ocean and the calm waters of the Bentota lagoon, though sadly none of the few hotels here really lives up to the setting. Backing Paradise Island, the tranquil Bentota Ganga provides the setting for Sri Lanka’s biggest range of watersports, along with interesting boat trips up the river. The southern end of Bentota beach (south of Bentota train station) comprises a wide stretch of sand backed by dense thickets of corkscrew palms – one of the most attractive beaches on the island, although somewhat spoilt by the unsightly amounts of litter that get dumped here. This is also where you’ll find one of Sri Lanka’s finest clusters of top-end hotels and villas, set at discreet intervals from one another down the coast. Many of the hotels in the area are the work of local architect Geoffrey Bawa– it’s well worth splashing out to stay in one of his classic creations, whose artful combination of nature and artifice offers an experience both luxurious and aesthetic. Despite the number of visitors, Bentota beach remains surprisingly quiet, particularly south of the station. Unlike Hikkaduwa or Unawatuna, there’s virtually no beachlife here, and the oceanfront lacks even the modest smattering of impromptu cafés, handicraft shops and hawkers you’ll find at Beruwala – it’s this somnolent atmosphere which either appeals or repels, depending on which way your boat’s pointing.

Diving and watersports in Bentota

The calm waters of the Bentota lagoon provide a year-round venue for all sorts of watersports including waterskiing, jetskiing, speed-boating, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, lagoon boat trips, deep-sea fishing and banana-boating. There’s also good diving along the coast here and decent snorkelling around Lighthouse Island off the northern end of Beruwala beach – trips can be arranged with local boatmen who tout for custom along this stretch of beach (around Rs.1500 for the boat plus Rs.750 for snorkelling equipment). The following are the main operators, although there are plenty of other smaller outfits dotted around the area.

Back in the 1970s, HIKKADUWA was Sri Lanka’s original hippy hangout, a budget alternative to the fancier resort hotels at Beruwala and Bentota. Subsequent decades were not kind to the town: rampant over-development led to the systematic erosion of the beach and the creation of a memorable line of concrete eyesores masquerading as hotels, while the famous Coral Gardens were reduced to a circus of boats chasing traumatized fish through a labyrinth of dead coral.

Over the past few years, however, Hikkaduwa has begun to rise, cautiously, from its own ashes, as the tourist hordes have largely ignored the town, flocking to newer and less spoilt destinations further south, allowing Hikkaduwa to recapture some of its former sleepy, slightly hippified charm. The much abused beach and Coral Gardens are now being gradually rehabilitated, while following the tsunami many of the town’s bomb-shelter resort hotels were demolished or renovated, and the whole place is now looking better than it has for years, while even the formerly hectic and noxious traffic along the Galle Road has lessened somewhat following the opening of the Southern Expressway.

It’s still far from unspoilt, but compared to the somnolent resorts further north Hikkaduwa remains refreshingly lively, with plenty of restaurants, bars and shops to tempt you off the beach, and a crowd of predominantly young and independent travellers keeping things busy. Things are particularly lively during the annual Hikkaduwa Beach Fest, a three-day beach party in July/August with visiting international DJs and crowds of hedonistic locals and foreigners partying on the beach. Other attractions include excellent local surf, plus good diving and snorkelling. Beach and sea aside, there are also several interesting Buddhist temples around Hikkaduwa, all easily reachable by tuktuk or bicycle – though be very careful cycling along the treacherous Galle Road.

Watersports at Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa has the largest selection of diving schools in Sri Lanka – the three operators listed below are the best-established, although other outfits come and go. As usual, the dive season runs from November to April. There’s a good range of dives close by, including reef dives down to 25m at the labyrinthine Hikkaduwa Gala complex, a well-known spot with swim-through caves, and the rocky-bottomed area of Kiralagala (22–36m deep). There are also some sixteen wrecks in the vicinity, including a much-dived old steam-driven oil tanker from the 1860s known as the Conch; the Earl of Shaftesbury sailing ship, wrecked in 1848; and the Rangoon, which sank near Galle in 1863.

Henry Steel Olcott: American Buddhist

On the south side of the Pettah, in front of Fort Railway Station, stands a statue of Henry Steel Olcott (1842–1907), perhaps the most influential foreigner in the modern history of Sri Lanka. Olcott was an American Buddhist and co-founder (with Madame Blavatsky, the celebrated Russian clairvoyant and spiritualist) of the Theosophical Society, a quasi-religious movement which set about promoting Asian philosophy in the West and reviving oriental spiritual traditions in the East, to protect them from the attacks of European missionary Christianity. The society’s utopian (if rather vague) objectives comprised a mixture of the scientific, the social, the spiritual and the downright bizarre: the mystical Madame Blavatsky, fount of the society’s more arcane tenets, believed that she had the ability to levitate, render herself invisible and communicate with the souls of the dead, as well as asserting that the Theosophical Society was run according to orders received from a group of “masters” – disembodied tutelary spirits who were believed to reside in Tibet.

In 1880, Blavatsky and Olcott arrived in Ceylon, formally embracing Buddhism and establishing the Buddhist Theosophical Society, which became one of the principal driving forces behind the remarkable worldwide spread of Buddhism during the twentieth century. Olcott spent many of his later years touring the island, organizing Buddhist schools and petitioning the British colonial authorities to respect Sri Lanka’s religious traditions, though his most visible legacy is the multicoloured Buddhist flag which he helped design, and which now decorates temples across the island.

Green Path art gallery

Right next to the National Art Gallery, Nelum Pokuna Mawatha (still generally referred to by its colonial name of Green Path) is home to an enjoyable impromptu open-air art show every weekend, when local students and other part-time painters descend on the area, hanging their canvases from the railings along the side of the road. All artworks on display are for sale, often at very affordable prices.

Ayurveda: the science of life

Ayurveda – from the Sanskrit, meaning “the science of life” – is an ancient system of healthcare which is widely practised in India and Sri Lanka. Its roots reach back deep into Indian history – descriptions of a basic kind of Ayurvedic medical theory are found as far back as the second millennium BC, in the sacred proto-Hindu texts known as the Vedas.

Unlike allopathic Western medicines, which aim to determine what’s making you ill, then destroy it, Ayurveda is a holistic system which regards illness as the result of a derangement in a person’s basic make-up. The Ayurvedic system holds that all bodies are composed of varied combinations of five basic elements – ether, air, fire, water and earth – and that each body is governed by three doshas, or life forces: pitta (fire and water); kapha (water and earth); and vata (air and ether). Illness is seen as an imbalance in the proportions of three influences, and specific diseases are considered symptoms of more fundamental problems. Ayurvedic treatments aim to rectify such imbalances, and Ayurveda doctors will typically examine the whole of a patient’s lifestyle, habits, diets and emotional proclivities in order to find the roots of a disease – treatment often consists of establishing a more balanced lifestyle as much as administering specific therapies.

With the developed world’s increasing suspicion of Western medicine and pharmaceuticals, Ayurveda is gaining a growing following among non-Sri Lankans – it’s particularly popular with Germans, thousands of whom visit the island every year specifically to take Ayurvedic cures. Genuine courses of Ayurveda treatment need to last at least a week or two to have any effect, and treatment plans are usually customized by a local Ayurveda doctor to suit the needs of individual patients. Programmes usually consist of a range of herbal treatments and various types of baths and massages prescribed in combination with cleansing and revitalization techniques including yoga, meditation, special diets (usually vegetarian) and abstention from alcohol. Some of the more serious Ayurveda resorts and clinics offer the panchakarma, or “five-fold treatment”, comprising the five basic therapies of traditional Ayurveda: therapeutic vomiting; purging; enema; blood-letting; and the nasal administration of medicines – a rather stomach-turning catalogue which offers the serious devotee the physical equivalent of a thorough spring-cleaning. A few places offer other yet more weird and wonderful traditional therapies such as treatments with leeches and fire (“moxibustion”).

Although a sizeable number of people visit Sri Lankan Ayurvedic centres for the serious treatment of chronic diseases, the majority of treatments offered here are essentially cosmetic, so-called “soft” Ayurveda – herbal and steam baths, and various forms of massage are the overwhelming staples, promoted by virtually every larger resort hotel along the west coast. These are glorified beauty and de-stress treatments rather than genuine medicinal therapies, and whether there’s anything truly Ayurvedic about many of them is a moot point, but they’re enjoyable enough, if you take them for what they are and don’t confuse them with genuine Ayurveda.

Geoffrey Bawa

We have a marvellous tradition of building in this country that has got lost. It got lost because people followed outside influences over their own good instincts. They never built right “through” the landscape…You must “run” with the site; after all, you don’t want to push nature out with the building.

One of the twentieth century’s foremost Asian architects, Geoffrey Bawa (1919–2003) was born to a wealthy family of Colombo Burghers boasting English, Dutch, German, Sinhalese and Scottish ancestors – a heady cocktail of cultures which mirrors the eclectic mix of European and local influences so apparent in his work.

Bawa spent a large proportion of his first forty years abroad, mainly in Europe. Having studied English at Cambridge and law in London, Bawa finally dragged himself back to Sri Lanka and followed his father and grandfather into the legal profession, though without much enthusiasm – his only positive experience of the law seems to have been driving around Colombo in his Rolls-Royce whilst wearing his lawyer’s robes and wig. After scarcely a year he threw in his legal career and went to Italy, where he planned to buy a villa and settle down.

Fortunately for Sri Lanka, the Italian villa didn’t work out, and Bawa returned, staying with his brother Bevis at the latter’s estate at Brief Garden. Inspired by his brother’s example, Bawa decided to do something similar himself, purchasing the nearby house and gardens which he christened Lunuganga, and beginning to enthusiastically remodel the estate’s buildings and grounds. The architectural bug having finally bitten, Bawa returned to England to train as a professional architect, finally qualifiying at the advanced age of 38, after which he returned to Colombo and flung himself into his new career.

Bawa’s early leanings were modernist, encouraged by his training in London and by his close working relationship with the Danish architect Ulrik Plesner, a keen student of functional Scandinavian design. The style of his early buildings is often described as “Tropical Modernism”, but local conditions gradually changed Bawa’s architectural philosophy. The pure white surfaces favoured by European modernists weathered badly in the tropics, while their flat rooflines were unsuitable in monsoonal climates – and in any case, shortages of imported materials like steel and glass encouraged Bawa to look for traditional local materials and indigenous solutions to age-old architectural conundrums.

The result was a style in which the strong and simple forms of modernism were softened and enriched by local influences, materials and landscapes. Bawa revived the huge overhanging tiled roofs traditionally used by colonial architects in the tropics, whose broad eaves and spacious verandas offered protection against both sun and rain, while buildings were designed to blend harmoniously with their surrounding landscape (Bawa often and famously designed buildings to fit around existing trees, for example, rather than just cutting them down). In addition, the use of open, interconnecting spaces avoided the need for air-conditioning as well as blurring the distinction between interior and exterior spaces, allowing architecture and landscape to merge seamlessly into one.

The arrival of package tourism in the 1960s brought with it the need for modern hotels, a genre with which Bawa became inextricably associated – see Basics for a list of his principal hotels. His first major effort, the Bentota Beach Hotel, established a style which many hotels across the island would subsequently follow. The main wooden pavilion, topped by a hipped roof, used natural local materials throughout and paid distant homage to traditional Kandyan architecture in its overall shape and conception; at its centre lay a beautifully rustic courtyard and pond set within a cluster of frangipani trees, giving the sense of nature not only being around the building, but also within.

Around a dozen other hotels followed – most notably the Kandalama in Dambulla and the Lighthouse in Galle – as well as major public commissions including the mammoth new Sri Lankan Parliament building in Kotte. Bawa’s architectural practice became the largest on the island during the 1970s, and most of Sri Lanka’s finest young architects started their careers working for him. Many took his influence with them when they left, and buildings (hotels especially) all over the island continue to show the trappings of the Bawa style, executed with varying degrees of competence and imagination.

As well as kolam and devil dances, the south is also home to a range of populist folk dances – though nowadays you’re more likely to see them performed in one of Kandy’s nightly cultural shows (see Kandyan dancing and drumming) than anywhere in the south itself. Popular dances include the stick dance (leekeli), harvest dance (kulu), pot dance (kalageldi) and the ever-popular raban dance, during which small raban drums (they actually look more like thick wooden plates than musical instruments) are spun on the fingers or on sticks balanced on the hands or head – an experienced performer can keep as many as eight rabans twirling simultaneously from various parts of his or her body.

Turtle hatcheries

A familiar sight along the Galle Road between Bentota and Hikkaduwa, particularly in Kosgoda, are the numerous battered signs for an ever-growing multitude of turtle hatcheries set up in recent years in response to the rapidly declining numbers of turtles visiting Sri Lanka’s beaches. Staffed by volunteers, and funded by tourist donations, the hatcheries buy the turtles’ eggs (at above market value) from local fishermen and rebury them in safe locations; once hatched, the babies are kept in concrete tubs for a few days before being released into the sea. Despite the hatcheries’ (mostly) laudable aims however, questions have long been raised over their effectiveness – it is almost impossible to replicate the turtles’ natural incubation and hatching conditions, and as a consequence the overwhelming majority succumb to disease or predators – and there is little evidence that they have helped to reverse the turtles’ declining fortunes.

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Travel Guide to Colombo, Sri Lanka [with Sample Itinerary]

Read our Colombo travel guide to help you have an idea with your next journey to this wonderful capital in the country of Sri Lanka.

• List of the Best Budget to Mid-Range Hotels in Sri Lanka
• 7 Ways to Fully Experience and Enjoy Central Sri Lanka
• My stay at Cinnamon’s Hotels in Sri Lanka – Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo & Cinnamon Citadel Kandy

Table of Contents

Colombo Travel Guide: Places to Visit in Colombo, Sri Lanka

1. gangaramaya (vihara) buddhist temple.

Suggested Tour:  Colombo: Half-Day City Tour

2. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

3. Colombo National Museum

Suggested Tour: Full-day Sightseeing Tour of Colombo, Sri Lanka

4. Viharamahadevi Park

5. Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque

6. Galle Face Green

Galle Face Green is a must in Colombo, here you can meet in the evening, you can see families, fly kites, many food stalls with delicious dishes of all kinds, and feel the breeze from the sea. If you are looking for contact with locals, you can have a drink in the small restaurants and socialize!

7. Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil

From the outside, the temple is more than impressive. A beautiful temple with many figures and great colors, you can take your time to study the figures carefully. It is easy to reach and offers a nice insight into the temple culture of Sri Lanka.

Colombo Travel Guide: Sample Weekend Itinerary to Colombo, Sri Lanka

Day 1 – weekend guide to colombo, sri lanka.

Colombo National Museum Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil

Day 2 – Weekend Guide to Colombo, Sri Lanka

Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque Galle Face Green

Day 3 – Weekend Guide to Colombo, Sri Lanka

Viharamahadevi Park

Colombo Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Colombo, Sri Lanka

*All prices are subject to change.

Where to Stay in Colombo, Sri Lanka if you’re a Backpacker

Anula Inn  

Anula Inn offers accommodation with a shared lounge and as well as free private parking for guests who drive. Arcade Independence Square is 2.8 km from the hostel, while Alliance Française is 3.7 km from the property. The nearest airport is Ratmalana Airport, 14 km from Anula Inn.

Price: Starts at $3 per night for 4-Bed Male Dormitory Room, includes taxes and charges, and it offers a free cancellation.

Haven Fort Hostel 

Haven Fort Hostel features rooms with city views and free WiFi. At the hostel, all rooms are fitted with a desk. The hostel provides complimentary tea/coffee to guests. A buffet or Asian breakfast is available daily at the property.

Price: Starts at $4 per night for Bunk Bed in Mixed Dormitory Room, includes taxes and charges, and it’s non-refundable.

Udara’s Colombo Residences 

Udara’s Colombo Residences offers accommodation with a garden and free WiFi as well as free private parking for guests who drive. The nearest airport is Ratmalana, 17 km from Udara’s Colombo Residences, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

Price: Starts at $11 per night for Double Room with Private Bathroom, includes taxes and charges, and it offers a free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Colombo, Sri Lanka if you’re on a Budget

Hostel At Galle Face

Hostel at Galle Face is a beachfront hostel that features free WiFi throughout the property. Grocery delivery is available. Common areas include a shared kitchen and a terrace at the property. Bandaranaike Airport is 28 km away.

Price: Starts at $8 per night for Bed in 4-Bed Female Dormitory Room, includes taxes and charges,  add $3 for breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

Colombo Hotel by Colombo Village

This 4-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms. The rooms include a microwave, a coffee machine, a bath or shower, free toiletries, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a DVD Player. All rooms are equipped with a seating area. Full English/Irish breakfast can be enjoyed in the breakfast area.

Price: Starts at $14 per night for Economy Double Room, includes taxes and charges, and it offers a free cancellation.

Steps Backpackers Hostel

Steps Backpackers Hostel offers accommodation with a shared lounge and free WiFi throughout the property as well as free private parking for guests who drive. The units at the hostel come with a seating area. At Steps Backpackers Hostel all rooms are equipped with a shared bathroom with a shower. The accommodation also offers a continental or Asian breakfast.

Where to Stay in Colombo, Sri Lanka if you want Luxury

Shangri-La Hotel Colombo

Shangri-La Hotel Colombo offers the various collection of guestrooms with stunning views of the Indian Ocean, Beira Lake, or cityscape. There is a Pool Bar overlooking the Indian Ocean and it is perfect for light refreshments. The hotel also offers direct access to the most extensive international shopping mall in Sri Lanka, Shangri-La’s own One Galle Face Mall. Daily buffet breakfast and dinner are served at either Capital Bar & Grill or Kaema Sutra.

Price: Starts at $150 per night for Deluxe Lake View King, add $30 for taxes and charges, $20 for breakfast, but it offers a free cancellation.

Jetwing Colombo Seven

Jetwing Colombo Seven boasts a year-round rooftop pool. The hotel has a sun terrace and spa center, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or a drink at the bar. Each room at this hotel is air-conditioned and comes with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. All rooms have a seating area where you can relax. Tea/coffee making facilities can be found in the room. Guests will also find a 24-hour front desk at the property.

Price: Starts at $203 per night for Deluxe Double Room, add $22 for taxes and charges, $15 for breakfast, but it offers a free cancellation.

Plantation Villa

You can read Kach’s Experience with Plantation Villa , here! It’s our recommended hotel!

Price: Starts at $154 per night for a Single Room, add $60 for taxes and charges .

Colombo Travel Guide: List of restaurants that you can try while in Colombo, Sri Lanka

1. King of the Mambo

Operating hours: 5:00 PM – 02:00 AM (Mon-Fri) / 12:00 PM – 02:00 AM (Sat-Sun) Address:  Galle Face Hotel, Colombo Sri Lanka

2. Noodles Restaurant

Operating hours: 6:30 PM – 11:30 PM (Sun-Sat) Address: Galle Road A2 Cinnamon Grand Colombo, Colombo Sri Lanka

3. Nuga Gama

Address: 77 Galle Road, Colombo Sri Lanka

Address:  117 Sir Chittampalam A Gardiner Mawatha Cinnamon Grand Colombo, Colombo 00100 Sri Lanka

5. Chutneys At Cinnamon Grand Colombo

Operating hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Sun-Sat) Address: 77 Galle Road, Colombo 00300 Sri Lanka

And that’s our Colombo travel guide for you! We hope we’re able to give you enough insights about this city. Have you been here? Or are you planning to go here? Share with us your experience!

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Thank you for the valuable post! I really enjoyed the way you’re writing, it’s very helpful for who is planning to travel or enjoy the vacation Sri Lanka.

Hey! Just wanna say that this is a great blog, I get some really useful tips in here. Thank you for taking the time to put it together! I have planned this year to visit a friend there and he’s going to show me around, so I have the perks of a native tour guide.

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23 things you need to know before going to Sri Lanka

Oct 14, 2023 • 11 min read

Get to grips with Sri Lanka's complex culture with these top tips on health, safety and etiquette © Cavan Images / Getty Images

Floating in tropical waters off the southern tip of India, Sri Lanka is defined by its gentle Buddhist culture, friendly people and laid-back way of life despite its troubled recent history.

A little knowledge goes a long way when it comes to having an easy trip to this Indian Ocean island. For such a small nation, Sri Lanka is hugely diverse. Surf-pounded coastlines rise to forested national parks , temple-studded plains and jungle-covered highlands - with the added perk that nowhere is that far from a  beach .

Most visitors start on the coast and duck inland to tea gardens, ancient cities and national parks, but navigating Sri Lanka 's frenetic public transport system and cultural sensitivities can be confusing for new arrivals. To help you out, here are some of the things you need to know before traveling to Sri Lanka.

1. Apply for a visa in advance

As a first step, check the latest visa requirements for Sri Lanka. Most nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in advance of travel, but fortunately, they're not hard to get.

2. Check your travel vaccinations

Sri Lanka is a tropical destination, so check with your doctor to make sure you're up to date with your travel vaccinations. Recommended vaccinations for Sri Lanka include diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and polio. Long stayers might also consider getting vaccinated against typhoid and rabies (although rare, rabies can be fatal, and it's carried by dogs, cats and monkeys in Sri Lanka).

3. Plan your trip according to the monsoons

Between May and September , the south coast and west coast of Sri Lanka are lashed by the southwest monsoon, which brings plenty of rainfall and choppy seas, while northern and eastern parts of the island are fine and dry. When the northeast monsoon hits Sri Lanka between November and March, the south and west are at their best, and it's the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka that see the showers.

In fact, monsoon rainfall in Sri Lanka is quite sporadic – expect short, sharp downpours interspersed with long, hot sunny spells. Traveling to different parts of Sri Lanka during their rainy "off-seasons" has its rewards – visitor numbers fall and hotel rates drop quite significantly.

4. There's no alcohol for sale on full moon days and religious events

Sri Lanka has a huge number of bank holidays, and almost half of these are poya days, marking the arrival of the full moon, an auspicious event in Sri Lankan Buddhism. All poya days are dry days – alcohol is not sold in shops, restaurants or bars (though you can still access your hotel room’s minibar). The ban on alcohol also extends to other religious events such as the Buddhist festival of Vesak in May.

5. Carry cash: the currency is the Sri Lankan rupee

Stock up on rupees on arrival in Sri Lanka, not before, and don't change more than you need. Sri Lankan rupees are hard to exchange outside of Sri Lanka. ATMs are widespread all over the country – stick to Bank of Ceylon ATMs where possible as they don't charge a fee. Card machines are common in larger hotels, restaurants and tourist-oriented shops.

Try to build up a stash of lower denomination notes wherever possible (for example, withdraw LKR5900 rather than LKR6000). You'll need small bills to pay for tuk-tuks and buy things from local shops and markets and for tipping. Carrying some cash in dollars, euros or pounds sterling is also useful – all are widely accepted in tourist areas.

6. Be realistic about how much ground you can cover

It takes a surprising amount of time to travel around Sri Lanka thanks to winding routes and the limited number of roads crossing the interior of the island. Traffic also has to navigate a variety of hazards including badly surfaced roads and roaming wildlife (buffaloes, cows, feral dogs and even elephants). To do the island justice, don’t rush. You’ll need at least a month for a circuit of the island with detours to national parks, ancient cities and tea plantations inland.

Thanks to Sri Lanka’s improving expressway network, road travel from Colombo to southern towns such as Galle ,  Matara and  Tangalla is fairly rapid. With its twisting, congested roads, the  Hill Country is the most time-consuming region to navigate (consider taking trains to explore instead).

7. Pack the right gear for Sri Lanka’s hills and religious sites

Sri Lanka’s mountains reach elevations of over 2,000m (6,560ft) and temperatures are lower in the highlands than on the coast. Pack a light jumper for cooler nights and early morning starts (particularly between December and March). Also bring a sarong – you can use it as a beach blanket or towel, as a shawl or skirt to cover your shoulders or knees when visiting temples, and as a warm layer when traveling on air-conditioned buses or for pre-dawn safari jeep drives.

8. Plan ahead for the hill country trains

Sri Lanka Railways runs the nation's trains, including services on the spectacular Main Line, which slices east from Colombo  through the island’s highest mountains, cloud forests and tea estates. It’s a stunning journey and hugely popular with tourists and locals alike, particularly the section between Kandy and Ella .

Book tickets in air-conditioned first class or fan-cooled second class well ahead to guarantee a seat, either in person at stations or online via booking sights such as 12GoAsia . Tickets are released 10 days prior and sell out quickly.

9. Swimwear is for the beach only

For the most part, Sri Lankans are socially conservative and deeply religious. Swimwear is fine for the beach, but not when wandering about town. Going nude or topless is not permitted on any Sri Lankan beaches.

10. Avoid public affection and disruptive behavior

Public displays of affection are frowned on, as is loud or brash behavior, and losing your temper in public (keep this in mind when haggling – this should never be an angry process).

11. Dress respectfully when visiting temples

When making trips to religious sites, wear clothing that covers the legs and upper arms and shoulders. Remove your shoes and headwear before entering any Buddhist or Hindu temple or mosque, even if the site is a historic ruin. Socks are allowed (and you'll need them on scorching hot sunny days).

Tourists are less common in  Jaffna and the north where a distinct Sri Lankan Tamil Hindu culture predominates. Respect local etiquette when visiting Hindu temples – ask for permission before entering as non-Hindus are barred from entering some shrines. Some temples also require men to remove shirts and enter bare-chested (for example, Jaffna’s vast Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil ).

12. Show respect to Buddha images

Sri Lankan Buddhists take depictions of the Buddha very seriously and these should always be treated with respect. People have been deported from Sri Lanka for displaying "disrespectful" Buddha images, so avoid wearing clothing with Buddha images and if you have tattoos of Buddhist iconography, keep these covered. The same rules apply to statues – posing for selfies with a Buddha statue is a definite no-no, as is turning your back toward a Buddha image.

13. Be considerate when taking photographs

When photographing people, always ask for permission first. Note that if you photograph the famous stilt fishers at Koggala, you may be asked for payment (genuine stilt fishers are a rare breed nowadays). Flash photography isn’t allowed in temples (nor in the vicinity of military sites) and taking photos may be banned entirely at some Hindu sites. If you are photographing temples, be careful not to stand with your back toward a Buddha statue while you are snapping.

14. Use your right hand to eat

Traditionally, Sri Lankans eat with their right hand, using the tips of their fingers to mix rice and curry into little balls, and their thumb to gently push the food into their mouths. You may be encouraged to try this if you are invited into a local home for a meal, but always wash your hands first for hygiene reasons. Avoid eating (or shaking hands) with your left hand as it is used for less sanitary tasks such as personal ablutions.

15. Tipping is customary

Tipping is a way of life in Sri Lanka and many restaurant workers rely on the extra income this practice brings. Most larger hotels and restaurants add a 10% tip as standard; use this as a guide for how much to tip in places that don’t. 

16. Give wildlife space

In 2017, a British journalist died after being snatched by a crocodile at a lagoon near  Arugam Bay . Such attacks are rare, but they happen so be vigilant in rivers and lagoons. Dangerous sharks are not a problem in Sri Lanka, but poisonous snakes are found in waterlogged areas on land such as paddy fields. 

Keep a keen lookout for elephants on roads leading to national parks or when walking or driving in the hills. If you see one, keep your distance and be ready to back away. Never feed a wild elephant – this habituates elephants to associate humans with food and act aggressively.

17. Take standard safety precautions

Sri Lanka is one of the safest countries in Asia when it comes to petty crime. Violence against tourists is very rare, and theft and robberies are uncommon, though they do happen occasionally. As a precaution, wear a money belt and use your hotel safe.

Female travelers should avoid traveling alone at night, particularly on public transport, and take care walking alone on empty beaches. Given Sri Lanka’s conservative culture, long sleeves and dresses are culturally appropriate and will reduce the chance of being harassed.

18. Do not drink the tap water

Sri Lanka's tap water could theoretically be used for brushing your teeth but we don't recommend it, and it's certainly not safe for drinking. Bottled water is plentiful and better hotels provide clean drinking water for guests. If you do buy bottled water, check that the seal is intact and look for the Sri Lanka standards certification mark. Always dispose of empty bottles responsibly – filling your own drinking water bottle from a large bottle is better than buying lots of small plastic bottles.

19. Beware of scams and pickpockets

Scammers are active in  Galle Fort , Kandy and Colombo’s Galle Face Green , looking for tourists to cheat or charm out of money. Never buy gems hawked on the street – they will almost certainly be convincing fakes made from colored glass – and be dubious of any shop trying to sell you gems to "sell at a profit back home." Seek out information from official tourist offices and directly from operators rather than trusting agents, particularly if they seek you out first.   

Keep your money and valuables out of sight when on busy trains and buses, and when exploring crowded areas streets such as Colombo’s Pettah market district . Tuk-tuks have a habit of overcharging tourists – ask drivers to use the meter (and take another tuk-tuk if they refuse), or order a ride via Uber or local app,  PickMe .

20. Protect yourself against mosquitoes

Mosquito bites are one of the biggest health concerns in Sri Lanka. Although malaria has been eliminated, mosquitoes can carry debilitating dengue fever, a painful illness that can have serious side effects. No vaccinations are available for dengue and treatment can only reduce symptoms. Protect yourself by covering up at dawn and dusk, sleeping under a mosquito net and wearing strong repellent containing high levels of DEET ( diethyltoluamide ).

21. Be road-safe in Sri Lanka

Traffic is one of the biggest dangers facing visitors to Sri Lanka. Accidents involving motorcycles and lorries are common, and bus collisions – often involving pedestrians – are also a problem. Common causes of accidents include dangerous overtaking, overloading and pulling in suddenly to pick up passengers on the roadside.

Private bus company drivers tend to drive more recklessly than their government-run, SLTB counterparts. Don’t expect vehicles to stop at pedestrian crossings and keep your wits about you when walking beside any roads (sidewalks are rare in Sri Lanka).

22. Never underestimate the ocean

Sri Lanka's beaches may be idyllic, but there are few lifeguards and strong currents are a danger (particularly during the monsoon seasons). Many beaches shelve steeply and drowning is the second most common cause of death among tourists after road accidents. Seek local advice before swimming in unfamiliar water.

23. Natural disasters are a risk

Sri Lanka was one of the countries worst affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which swept away more than 35,000 people and devastated many coastal areas. Following the disaster, early warning systems have been put in place in major towns and resorts, but not in rural, isolated areas, so be alert to signs of earthquakes and tsunamis.

The most common natural disaster in Sri Lanka is localized flooding during the southwest and northeast monsoons, which can cause landslides in highland areas. Sri Lanka is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones and periods of drought. For up-to-date weather warnings and situation reports, bookmark the country’s Disaster Management Center website .

This article was first published Mar 7, 2022 and updated Oct 14, 2023.

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"The Heart of Sri Lanka"

Colombo tourism.

Discovered initially by traders two millennia ago, Colombo is Sri Lanka's largest economic corridor and tourist destination. As the island nation's capital city, Colombo is a cosmopolitan gateway to the wonders of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial heritage, splendid tropical landscapes and delectable cuisines. The city is well connected to other places in Sri Lanka by rail and road.

It is in Colombo that you can find it all; from the Lotus Tower, South Asia's tallest freestanding structure, world-class casinos like Bellagio and Ballys, and cinnamon plantation hiking trails. The city identifies with the classic form of urban tourism and offers a great experience of sightseeing, shopping and nightlife. Taking an open deck bus tour is the best way to sightsee around the city on a day of pleasant weather.  Against the ocean at Galle Face Green Promenade, Galle Fort and Lighthouse showcase astonishing Victorian relics in a snazzy neighbourhood with cafes. Pettah Market, acclaimed as a shopaholic's abode by tourists and locals, features vibrant oriental themes and colourful shops. Also, be sure to visit Mount Lavinia Beach and enjoy a beautiful day with the sunset at the end too. The Snow World Theme Park and Viharamahadevi Park are great places if you are travelling with kids. For the adventure enthusiast in you, indulge in some scuba diving in Chief Dragon and The Sierra. Colombo seamlessly blends adventure, luxury, culture, and history from regalia of 17th-century Kandyan Kings, colossal Buddha figures and Thambili-coconut drinks to amusement parks, malls and bustling bazaars.

Must Know Before You Travel to Colombo

• Where to Stay: -Galle Face Green area is known for its upscale hotels with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. It's a popular choice for those seeking luxury accommodations. -The Fort area is the central business district and offers a mix of upscale hotels and business-friendly accommodations. -Bambalapitiya and Wellawatte areas are close to shopping districts, restaurants, and the beach, making it a convenient choice for a lively stay
• Getting Around Colombo is easy with plenty of tuk-tuks available which costs around LKR 100 for the first km, then around LKR 80 or 90 for every subsequent km
• Casinos: Gambling is legal in Sri Lanka. However, choose to visit an upscale larger casino for a better experience

Places To Visit In Colombo

Gangaramaya Temple

Galle Face Green

Viharamahadevi Park

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

Pettah Floating Market

Colombo Dehiwala Zoo

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Currency in colombo, exchanging money in colombo.

• Most of the banks are authorised currency changers and usually give the best rate.
• Many finance companies are authorised as well, along with a few other limited liability companies.
• You can check the full list at 'ecd. lk'

Daily Budget for Colombo

Do's and don'ts in colombo.

• It is advisable to dress appropriately when touring the city, especially in formal institutions and religious sites. 
• Public displays of affection are also looked down upon.
• When taking photographs, be sure to ask about what is allowed to be photographed and what is not.
• It is considered extremely rude to face your back towards a statue by the Buddhists, so even if you click a picture, make sure you're facing the statue.
• Incomes in Sri Lanka are fairly low, so you should try and tip wherever you can.

History of Colombo

Nightlife in colombo.

From trancing bars, cafes, and themed pubs to night bazaars, glam casinos and discos, the nightlife in Colombo turns your weekdays into weekends with a plethora of luxurious as well as pocket-friendly spots to enjoy at. Roulette rolling, splendid themed buffets, grilled street food, chic beach parties, traditional clothes and apparel up for a bargain, trendy live bands, gaming arcades and enthusiastic crowds - you name it, and this city has it.

Here are the top five nightlife destinations in Colombo: -

• Bally’s Casino 
• Galle Face Green Night Market
• Bellagio Casino
• ON14 Rooftop Bar

Shopping in Colombo

Colombo is known worldwide for its stunning Sri Lankan handlooms, batiks, Ceylon tea, gems, bazaars and Ayurvedic therapies. Learn about the best ways to enjoy shopping in Colombo: -  

• Buy traditional handicrafts, linen, trinkets and sarongs at Paradise Road, Barefoot Garden Cafe, the oceanfront Galle Face Green Night Market and Kala Pola Art Market.
• Colombo City Centre and Lakarcade Mall are malls offering chic urban and ethnic clothing, arcade games and spas. 
• Dutch Gallery features colonial antiques, while Majestic City is the place to go for sapphires, homeware and books. 
• Enjoy a unique shopping spree at the Pettah Floating Market, boasting hundreds of over-water kiosks, delicious street food and farmers’ markets. 
• As prices are quoted many folds higher for tourists, humble bargaining goes a long way.
• Check authenticity before buying gems and valuables.
• Always carry cash while shopping in Colombo.

Read more about Shopping in Colombo .

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Exploring Colombo, Sri Lanka: Complete Itinerary And Travel Guide

I was quite thrilled about my first vacation to Sri Lanka, especially my two days in Colombo. As I looked up things to do in the capital city, this joy gave way to a few small worries. I started to wonder if two days in Colombo were enough to discover all the places and try new local foods and other activities within the time frame. Here is what I discovered and my detailed guide for two days in Colombo—what to see, do, and eat with a detailed itinerary.

First Impression

Colombo, also known as the port city, has become a must-visit location as a result of its rich colonial legacy and an artistic blending of diverse races, religions, and civilizations. Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, has a lot to charm a visitor with its blend of modern and ancient architecture, traffic, and craziness. There are numerous activities one can engage in in Colombo, from shopping on a crowded street to spending a relaxing evening at a posh colonial-style hotel overlooking the Indian Ocean.

The nation’s capital, which offers a variety of tourist experiences, has established itself as one of the top destinations for both luxurious vacations and backpacking trips. Whether you are a history buff or a shopaholic, Colombo will never let you down. Colombo has it all, whether you want to learn about Indian culture or just unwind through a cooking session with skilled chefs against an amazing sea-facing backdrop.

About Colombo

It is believed that the old Sinhala phrase Kolon Thota, which means "port on the river Kelani," is where the word "Colombo," first used by the Portuguese in 1505, got its start.

According to a different idea, the name Kola-amba-Thota, which means "harbour with leafy/green mango trees" in Sinhala, is where it came from.

What To See in Colombo (Best places for 2 days)

- Lotus Tower

- Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque)

- Radio Ceylon

- Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

- National Museum

- Galle Face Green Promenade

Here’s an ode to the beautiful capital of Sri Lanka as we discover a little something about the history, culture, people, and connection between India and Sri Lanka (very important). Here I am going to focus on the places mentioned in the Ramayan, where Buddha and Samrat Ashoka’s son visited, and how they spread Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Also, I am sharing best places to stay, eat , shop in Colombo and many other important tips one needs to know before visiting the place.

For more travel stories and information follow me on YouTube

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• Attractions

30 Places to Visit in Colombo

Colombo has become a popular visitor hotspot endeavouring various social, historical also nightlife attractions. Colombo is one of the Major cities of Sri Lanka and a diversely populated city on the island. Frequently, Colombo was well-known for its natural harbour. The town was placed on a port beside the early East-West sea trade routes. The Portuguese first arrived in Colombo in 1505; similarly, the city became a centre of East-West social impacts. The British colonial authorities made Colombo Sri Lanka’s capital in 1815. Later, Sri Lanka’s administrative centre shifted to Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, a nearby neighbourhood city, though Colombo resumed the business and commercial capital. Prepare your sightseeing in this lovely city with our checklist of the finest places to visit in Colombo.

1. Colombo Lotus Tower

The lotus tower will rise like a colourful art from the centre of the Colombo capital on the waterfront of the scenic Beira Lake as the tallest tower in South Asia and the 19th highest tower globally. Its elegant design, stimulated by the lotus flower, which has solid symbolic relations with Sri Lankan society, will bridge the gap between its built fabric and rich cultural heritage.

The Lotus Tower, also called the Colombo Lotus Tower, is 350 m found in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Sinhala Name is ‘ Nelum Kuluna “. The 350-metre-tall 17-storey Lotus Tower includes a television tower, a hotel, a telecommunications museum, eateries, an auditorium, an observation deck, a shopping mall and a convention centre.

Visitors are now permitted to visit the tower by buying a ticket for Rs. 500 or Rs. 2,000 for Sri Lankans, and a ticket for foreign travellers is priced at USD 20. Those who purchase a ticket for Rs. 2,000 will be permitted to enter the premises without standing in a queue and climb to the tower’s top several times during a single visit. Meanwhile, those who buy Rs. Five hundred tickets will be permitted to visit the top of the building at once.

Those visiting the  Lotus Tower  can experience bars, renowned restaurants and souvenir stores on the ground floor.

The third floor consists of a conference arena that can accommodate up to 400 people. Meanwhile, the open floor has been planned for diverse entertainment activities.

2. Galle Face Green – Colombo

It may only be a tiny spot of Green, but it’s one of the countless iconic locations in Colombo. Galle Face Green, an oblong grass space along the Galle Road in Colombo’s Fort zone, is the city’s most famous recreational space. While its beginnings are drawn after the 19th Century, the Galle Face Green — similar to the town it is part of — has undergone many development stages. But it has never misplaced its charm or its energetic soul.

The Galle Face Green is a sunny spot. Ask any Colombo citizen what you should do when visiting Colombo, and a walk along the Galle Face Green will be a wonderful experience. It’s one of the most appropriate places in the city, where all ethnicities, backgrounds and social groups mix in a spirit of fun and entertainment. There’s no entrance fee, and it nevermore closes.

Although initially a much larger space, the Green now officially spans a five-hectare strip, joined on one flank by the gorgeous Indian Ocean and by the bustling Galle Road on the opposite. More Details and Map

3. Independence Memorial Museum

Independence Memorial Museum is located in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It has a collection from the origin of Sri Lankan civilization till the current of about 25 centuries; the service the Sri Lankans provide to uplift and sustain their political, economic, social, cultural and human freedom is limitless. The difficulties they courageously faced on such occurrences present an instance and treasure to the future generation.

The aims and purposes of this exhibition constitute the rekindling of our pride and remind us of the excellent efforts conducted over the centuries until 1972 when we retrieved in winnings independence, on our national protagonists also their bio-sketches, for the privilege of the future generations. More Details and Map

4. Viharamahadevi Park

The Viharamahadevi Park, formerly Victoria Park, is located in Colombo, next to the National Museum in Sri Lanka. It is the most beloved and magnificent park in the city of Colombo. Located in front of the colonial-era Town Hall building, the park is named after Queen Viharamahadevi, the mother of King Dutugamunu. The park was built on land granted to Colombo city by Charles Henry de Soysa when the British rule Sri Lanka and used to be named “Victoria Park” after Queen Victoria. However, the British Army attacked it with the Australian 17th Brigade based at Victoria Park. The park was renovated and opened to the public after the war in 1951. More Details and Map

5. Arcade Independence Square – Colombo

Arcade Independence Square was established in Colombo 7. Several such refurbishments have been offered in Sri Lanka, especially Colombo, yet innovative culture to the country. For instance, the Auditor General’s Office buildings have been transformed into one of the best places to relax, shop, and dine in Colombo.

The Arcade is, without uncertainty, elegant. Although the parking areas tend to get filled up quickly, especially at night, there are enough parking spaces. The lion statue is nicely done, and so is the aquarium. The plants and pathways connect to the class of Arcade, which delivers a place much more eternal than a place for shopping. More Details and Map

6. Pettah Floating Markets – Colombo

Pettah Floating Markets is located at Bastian Mawatha in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Behind the bustling main streets of Colombo Pettah, this is a place where travellers can experience tranquillity and peaceful water. The floating market assists as a visitor attraction, trading local products and local craftsmanship. It consists of 92 stalls and many stands on the Beira Lake boats.

The Urban Development Authority developed and beautified the floating market, and the Sri Lanka Army’s engineering units transformed Bastian Street, Pettah Central Bus Stand, and Colombo Fort Railway Station into a greener ecosystem. More Details and Map

7. Beddegana Wetland Park – Colombo

Beddegana wetland park can be found in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte. The park’s location within the revealed “Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte Bird Sanctuary” and highly urban built environment sets the stage for its paradigm importance. This 18-hectare area is home to many aquatic birds and other faunal species, such as butterflies, dragonflies, and mammals endemic to Sri Lankan and Asian wetlands. Apart from that, this marsh area is a popular stopover for migratory birds. During the migratory season, one can catch sight of the diverse flocks of shorebirds or waders, including plovers and sandpipers.

It has been reported that 50 species of birds, 20 species of fish, and 119 species of butterflies make this wetland their habitat, and endangered mammals included in the I.U.C.N. red list, such as a fishing cat, are with the resident species of mammals. More Details and Map

8. Diyatha Uyana – Colombo

Diyatha Uyana is a delightful difference for Colombo city residents and tourists. These premises are just next to the Waters Edge Hotel. It is ideal for a stroll in the evening or even jogging, as there are jogging paths. You might also spot a charming duck or two waddling along the trail. More Details and Map

9. Mount Lavinia beach – Colombo

Dehiwala beach, also recognized as Mount Lavinia beach, is near Colombo, one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka. It is a perfect destination for a relaxing and fantastic beach holiday. And also, this golden sand beach is ideal for morning yoga, meditation, and evening relaxation. The beach is immaculate. Furthermore, it is proper for swimming, and you can visit the cafes with live music and artists performing, enjoying the marvellous beauty of the beach. So you can spend a perfect musical night here. The views during the sunset are magical and spectacular. Mount Lavinia beach is best for travelling to unwind your body and soul. More Details and Map

10. Kelani Rajamaha Viharaya

Kelani Rajamaha Viharaya is one of the several revered, well-known Buddhist temples of the Orient in the Colombo region. Set on the summit of a bit of hill lapped by the streams of the river Kelani, this magnificent shrine presents one of the most scenic views ever offered to the tourist.

Amongst the many Buddhist temples of Sri Lanka, the Kelani Viharaya is one of the most graceful examples of the sculptor’s art. Its story runs back more than 2500 years. In the days of yore, it always assumed full royal patronage, and to this day, it has been highly respected by the island’s people. Furthermore, its significance as a place of Buddhist worship is apparent in the island’s traditions. More Details and Map

11. Independence Square

Independence Square is a majestic stone edifice celebrating Sri Lanka’s liberation from the British Empire in 1948. The specific place is where Prince Henry, the Duke of Gloucester, presented Sri Lanka’s first Parliament on a particular podium, ending almost five centuries of colonial control and marking the beginning of Sri Lanka’s self-rule. Initially, the Independence Memorial Hall treated important diplomatic guests and ceremonial parts of the two houses of the Parliament.

Each architectural square inch of this column abounds with unique symbols of the island’s rich history and administrative freedom. On the way to the building is an impressive statue of D.S. Senanayake, Sri Lanka’s first prime minister, which four stone lions enclose with protruding eyes. More Details and Map

12. Gangaramaya Temple – Colombo

Gangaramaya is one of Colombo’s most beloved Buddhist temples, started by the famous scholar-monk Hikkaduwa Sri Sumangala Maha Nayaka Thero in the late 19th Century.

After the Venerable Sri Sumangala, his chief pupil Devundera Sri Jinaratana Nayake Thera took on the Temple’s administration. He laid the organization to convert the little Temple into an institute of global reckoning. More Details and Map

13. Dehiwala National Zoo – Colombo

Dehiwala National Zoo, which has an exceptional display of indigenous fauna, is one of the most aged zoos in Asia. The Zoo in Sri Lanka is generally known as Dehiwala Zoo worldwide.

Dehiwala Zoo currently houses 72 Mammals, 65 birds, 31 varieties of reptiles, 89 species of fish, 03 species of amphibians and 30 species of Butterflies. The total number of animals varies from 2500-3000 due to breeding and free-living colonies of birds. Dehiwala Zoo has become famous among visitors for collecting local and exotic animals and landscaping with lush greeneries. Furthermore, the Zoo supports and promotes conservation by breeding certain rare and endangered species through proper animal welfare. More Details and Map

14. Red Masjid

This historical place of prayer known as JAMIUL ALFAR JUMMAH MASJID is called SAMMAN KOTTU PALLI in Tamil, RATHU PALLIYA in Sinhala, and RED MASJID in English is located in the Muslim-intensive business area of PETTAH (PURAOKOTTAI – Second Cross Street) Colombo.

If the obligation is the mother of invention, so be it with the establishment of this MASJID. The devoted Muslims needed a place to pray five times a day; they began constructing a commonplace of worship in 1908; the travelling business Muslims, our forefathers from India, recognized the need and came forward to fulfil this by building the MASJID in the city. It is essential not to forget our forefather’s dedication and contribution towards building a place of worship that has only expanded the number of fellow Muslims in the city and the spirit of Islam, essentially making a stamp of our religion in the city. We pray to Allah to accept our ancestors’ pioneers within the heavenly aboard Aameen, Aameen Ya Rabbal Aalameen. More Details and Map

15. Colombo National Museum

The Colombo Museum, as it was initially declared, was established on January 1, 1877. Its patron was Sir William Henry Gregory, the British Governor of Ceylon (Sri Lanka).

The Royal Asiatic Society (C.B.) finally brought to Gregory’s statement on his nomination as Governor in 1872 the request for a public museum; with much trouble, the permission of the legislative council was received in a year. J.G. Smither(The Architect of the Public Works Department) made a new structure with Italian architectural characteristics. The construction was finished in 1876, and the Museum commenced its functions the following year. More Details and Map

16. Bellanwila Temple

Bellanwilla Temple is located on the outskirts of Colombo, in the village of Bellanwila, just a few kilometres from the city limits. It has a long and sacred history, and its great sanctity is due to its holy Bodhi tree. In the temple-studded idyll island of Sri Lanka, Bellanwila Rajamaha Vihara occupies a special place. This Temple is so sacred that there is a long-cherished belief that a child who treads the ground under the shade of its sacred Bodhi tree will never fail in life. 

17. Sri Kaileswaram Temple

Sri Kaileswaram Temple, built over two centuries ago and devoted to Lord Shiva and Ganesha, is an old Hindu temple in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It is one of the most popular marital places in the region.

18. Sri Kailasanathar Swami Devasthanam

Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil, Colombo, is one of the tourist’s most visited Colombo attractions. Entry tickets are NOT required to visit this place. It is better to call this Hindu temple in the morning and to return by noon. You can get a blessing by watching the poojas at this Temple. This area is an excellent place to meditate as it is peaceful and calm. You can witness Hindu Tamil weddings in this Temple if you are lucky. On any auspicious day, Tamil marriages used to take place here. If you are visiting there with a tuk-tuk, keep it with you for your return trip. Indian Hindu Travellers come to this Temple to participate in the temple Poojas and get the blessing from the Temple Preachers.

19. Minarets of the Dewatagaha Mosque

Minarets of the Dewatagaha mosque is one of the more renowned mosques in Colombo – its attractive exterior is virtually an iconic element of the architecture close to Town Hall. It is also partly a shrine to a Saint from the 19th Century – Shaikh Usman Waliyullah – and Muslims and non-Muslims visit to pay their respects.

20. Beira Lake

The Beira Lake is a renowned landmark in Colombo, the heart of the capital. The Beira Lake is home to draws such as the Seema Malakaya Meditation Centre, a Gangaramaya Temple wing that floats atop the lake’s waters. For those so inclined, a jogging track can be a great place to get away from the stresses of the city, and the popular swan boat rides, where two people can rent a manually-powered swan-shaped boat to paddle across the lake. More Details

21. Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct Colombo

The Dutch hospital in Colombo Fort, one of the centuries-old buildings recently converted into a dining and shopping precinct. This place got this name because it was a hospital in the Dutch era. Then it lodged the police and a pharmacy. Eventually, this was converted into a shopping precinct with cafes, restaurants and upmarket shops in 2011. Since then, this has become a popular tourist hotspot for food and beverages.

22. Crow Island Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches situated on the shores of the Indian Ocean of Colombo, the Crow Island Beach Park is a public recreational area that opened in 2016. The beach park is also a fine place to witness the sunset with a children’s play area, walking tracks, a mangrove forest, a lake, a vast playground, and kite-flying prospects.

23. Bolgoda Lake

Bolgoda Lake is one the most prosperous biodiversity lakes in Sri Lanka. It is situated in the southwest of Sri Lanka, 19 kilometres from Colombo. The boat ride is a great experience around the large river, and many tourists curious about watersports and fishing come to spend their day. Unfortunately, only a few local boat owners can arrange boat rides.

24. Scuba Dive

Colombo dive location is the finest site in Sri Lanka for wreck diving. You can dive a dozen wrecks varying from 30 to 57 Meters, from a World War I Armed Merchant Ship to a ship recently sunk in 2009. Not only does the best array of shipwrecks in Sri Lanka but there are also some excellent reefs. For example, try the Gorgonian Gardens, a unique dive site found nowhere else in Sri Lanka or the distant Taprobane Reefs!

25. Air Force Museum 

Air Force Museum  is Sri Lanka’s only national Museum committed to the field of aviation as well as the history of the Sri Lanka Air Force (S.L.A.F.). A visit to this establishment will undoubtedly be a unique experience for aviation enthusiasts of all ages. The Museum offers a unique insight into the history of the S.L.A.F. and a comprehensive picture of aviation in general, including the basics of aviation technology.

From the Royal Air Force (R.A.F.) operations during World War II to the combat operations of the S.L.A.F. in the recent past, the Museum offers a detailed depiction of the evolution that has shaped the S.L.A.F. into the highly successful fighting force it is today.

26. Colombo Planetarium

Sri Lanka Planetarium  is one the largest Planetarium in the world in Colombo. The Planetarium was inaugurated on February 1, 1965. The Planetarium offers educational and other astronomical shows for science enthusiasts. Up to 500 people can visit one of the tours. This place is ideal for students exploring science and learning about the interplanetary system.

27. Excel World Colombo

It is the most extravagant, sought-after entertainment hotspot in  Excel World Entertainment Park and holds the title “The only twelve-lane cosmic bowling alley” in Sri Lanka. With ten magnificent lanes for a ten-pin bowling competition for grownups and two bumper bowling lanes for kids who are intolerant to knocking some pins down. Shotz Pool Lounge is found guilty of attracting a swarm of crowds to Excel World Entertainment Park. Game Zone is the largest token game centre in Sri Lanka, and it magnetically attracts many crowds.

While the game continues spiritedly, you may refresh at the restaurant, conveniently located inside Strikes, offering visitors an A la carte menu.

28. Panadura Beach 

Panadura Beach has located 27km away from Colombo CBD. , this beach is accessible from Pandura town via Galle Road. A long stretch of the sea has its bordered coasts shrouded with golden sand. Like Panadura, its beach also speaks of refinement, heat and simplicity. More Details

29. Kotte Rajamaha Viharaya

Kotte Rajamaha Viharaya is far from the hustle and bustle of Nugegoda town. A 20-minute drive towards the Pita-Kotte junction leads to Kotte Raja Maha Vihara, one of the city’s archaic temples. The tranquillity of the Temple invited us on a journey towards a life full of peace and happiness. Since it was nearly twilight, the Temple stood filled with considerable worshipers. The oil lamps’ light and the incense sticks’ smell took us to an unexpected planet. More Details

30.Colombo Lighthouse

Renowned for its historical and cultural significance, the Colombo Lighthouse is a noteworthy marine landmark in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This 29-meter-tall lighthouse, situated at Galbokka Point, south of the Port of Colombo, was built in 1952 to replace the previous one, which was rendered inoperable by neighbouring structures. It was notably inaugurated by D. S. Senanayake, the first prime minister of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka).

Four statues of lions stand out at the base of the lighthouse, which is 12 metres high and symbolises power and alertness. It is a well-known landmark in the city and provides a fantastic panoramic view of the Indian Ocean. Due to its placement in a high-security area close to the Naval Headquarters and the Port of Colombo, access to the lighthouse has been restricted. More Details  

Suggested Read : Places to visit in Kandy 

Ambuluwawa Tower

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Travel Advisory September 5, 2023

Sri lanka - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with updates to protest information. 

Exercise increased caution in Sri Lanka due to civil unrest , and terrorism.

Country Summary: Protests over the economic and political situation in Sri Lanka could erupt at any time. In some instances, police have used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, that could turn violent with little or no warning.

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Sri Lanka, with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, hospitals, and other public areas.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote areas. 

 Read the  country information page . 

 If you decide to travel to Sri Lanka: 

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues. 
• Follow the instructions of local authorities. 
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information. 
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Crime and Safety Report  for Sri Lanka. 
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for six months from expected date of departure from Sri Lanka.

One page required for entry stamp. 

Yellow fever vaccine is required for individuals above nine months of age who are traveling to Sri Lanka from a country designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to have a risk of yellow fever transmission, including transit more than 12 hours in an airport located in such a country. For more information, please refer to WHO .

Foreign currency over USD 15,000 must be declared.

If exiting with foreign currency over USD 5,000, the full amount brought in or acquired in Sri Lanka must be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy colombo.

210 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka Telephone: +(94) (11) 202-8500 Fax: +(94) (11) 202-7345 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Sri Lanka for information on U.S.- Sri Lanka relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens visiting Sri Lanka must have either an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a visa to enter Sri Lanka. 

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for purposes of tourism or transit require an approval notice from Sri Lanka’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System), onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. The ETA system is available online or at the port of entry; however, visitors are strongly urged to use the online system to avoid lengthy delays at the port of entry. This travel authorization allows entry for up to 30 days.  

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for short-term business activities such as participating in business meetings, engaging in business negotiations, or attending conferences and workshops are required to obtain a business ETA. Business ETAs are not available online. Business travelers must obtain travel authorization either from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka, or at the port of entry in Sri Lanka.

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for religious or volunteer work or for local employment must obtain entry visas from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka. These visas are not available at the port of entry or through the online system.

All visitors staying beyond the expiration date of their visa must obtain a visa extension from the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo and pay the relevant visa fees.

Specific inquiries regarding entry and exit requirements should be addressed to the  Embassy of Sri Lanka , 3025 Whitehaven Street NW, Washington DC 20008, telephone (202) 483-4025, fax (202) 232- 2329. Contact the Sri Lankan Embassy by  e-mail ; the Sri Lankan Consulate General in Los Angeles at 3250 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 2180, Los Angeles, CA 90010, telephone (213) 387-0210; or the  Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations  in New York City, 820 Second Avenue, 2 nd Floor, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 986-7040, fax (212) 986 1838. There are several honorary Sri Lankan consuls general and consuls in the United States. Visit the  Embassy of Sri Lanka website  for current visa information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Sri Lanka. 

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The last terrorist attack in Sri Lanka occurred on April 19, 2019, when terrorists carried out coordinated bombings of hotels and churches in Colombo and Batticaloa, killing more than 250 people and injuring more than 500 more. The terrorists were Sri Lankan nationals associated with the Islamic groups National Thowheeth Jama’ath Millathu Ibraheem. Authorities believe the perpetrators of the attack are dead or have been captured. Many hotels and shopping areas increased their physical security presence in response to the bombings and security screenings of guests and bags has become standard in many locations.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Most crimes against U.S. citizens continue to be petty crime and crimes of opportunity (e.g., pickpocketing, hotel room thefts, and fraud). There is some organized criminal activity, which can involve drug-related crimes and gang-on-gang violence, but these events do not tend to involve foreign travelers.

There are occasional reports of credit card fraud. Authorities have arrested foreign nationals and organized groups for complicity in financial crimes. Avoid situations where your card is removed from your view. There have been reports of employees at reputable businesses (e.g., restaurants or chain grocery stores) wearing data skimming devices in their clothing and scanning a victim’s credit card or using other methods to steal credit card information. ATM skimming is also a threat. If you use an ATM, be on the lookout for skimming devices. Cover keypads with your hand.

Street hustlers are common around popular hotels, shopping areas, and other tourist sites. There are occasional reports of snatch and grab theft of purses or jewelry owned by tourists, but no recent reports of armed robberies.  Beware of tuk-tuk or taxi drivers offering “special” tours or access to festivals or gem shops. This common scam often results in tourists being heavily pressured to buy “gems” that are either cut glass or are worth much less than the price being asked.

Likely due to Sri Lanka’s economic situation, there is a scam in which a tuk-tuk driver charges your ride using an app on their phone, claiming the meter is broken. When you get close to the destination, the phone either slips down or the app closes, and they charge a much higher amount than the routine cost. If a tuk-tuk does not have a meter, agree on a price before beginning the ride, and try to have the correct amount of cash so you do not need change.

Surf schools are known to run scams where they claim renters damaged their boards and demand exorbitant prices to repair the damage. Examine and take pictures of your surfboard before taking it into the water.

Sexual harassment is pervasive. Both foreigners and locals, more commonly women, report instances of cat calls and physical harassment (grabbing of body parts) while in crowded areas and/or public transportation.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent. Police may deploy water cannons and/or tear gas in response to violent protests.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

In general, demonstrations in Sri Lanka are peaceful, resulting only in traffic congestion. However, some have ended in violence between the protestors and police or opposition groups. Demonstrations can involve confrontations with police, resulting in the use of water cannons and tear gas to disperse crowds. Large political rallies are common. These rallies are generally peaceful but can disrupt traffic.

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams occasionally occur in Sri Lanka. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited text messages and WhatsApp messages. Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating 
• Contracts with promises of large commissions 
• Work permits/job offers

Tips to avoid scammers:

• Look for red flags like their location is far away, their profile was recently created or seems too good to be true, the pace of the relationship is moving too quickly, or they ask for money.
• Set up a phone call/video chat in the initial stages.
• Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.
• If they ask for help, you should refer them to the closest U.S embassy or consulate so we can assist them.

Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and do not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated, and use virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact both the tourist police (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500) for assistance. Report crimes to both the tourist police and the U.S. Embassy. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care ;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation  and following its conclusion;
• Provide a list of local attorneys ;
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. ;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help arrange flights home; and
• Replace a stolen or lost passport .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. If you break local laws in Sri Lanka, your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know what is legal and what is not where you travel. 

In places like military checkpoints, you may be taken in for questioning if you do not have your passport with you. When arriving in Sri Lanka, ensure your luggage does not contain prohibited or restricted items, such as weapons, ammunition, explosives, gold, narcotics, and pornography. In some places, it is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Sri Lanka are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Under the Cultural Prosperity Act and the Antiques Ordinance, the unlicensed export of antiques from the country is considered a criminal act.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries and they may be illegal according to the local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Special Circumstance : Sri Lanka recognizes limited  dual nationality . For further information, please contact the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington, D.C., the Consulate General in Los Angeles, or the Sri Lankan Mission to the United Nations in New York City.

The Sri Lankan police and military maintain several checkpoints throughout the country. U.S. citizens are advised to always carry identification such as their passports with them while in Sri Lanka. Photography is prohibited in designated high security zones and near many government facilities such as offices and military installations.

U.S. citizens who arrive by yacht or private boat should be aware that all marine harbors are high security zones. Travelers arriving by sea should be prepared for Sri Lankan Navy officials to inspect their vessels and should always wait for radio clearance before coming into port. 

Religious Laws: Tourists should be mindful of restrictions and observances when planning to visit any religious establishment, whether Buddhist or Hindu temples, mosques, churches, or other locations considered sacred by the local population. Posing for a photograph with your back to a statue of Buddha is a serious offense in Sri Lanka, punishable by a fine or arrest. Travelers should also be cognizant of displaying religious imagery, including tattoos of Buddha, while traveling to and transiting within the country, as foreign nationals have been arrested or denied entry to Sri Lanka due to such tattoos.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports

International Volunteers:

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Women Travelers: If you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, you are encouraged to call the tourist police immediately (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and follow up with a call to the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500). We can sometimes connect you with a non-governmental organization in Sri Lanka that may be able to provide assistance.  If you are victimized overseas, you may be entitled to receive compensation for counseling and/or other services such as relocation back to the United States. For further information, visit the U.S. Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women .

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes committed in Sri Lanka. See our tips for  Women Travelers .

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

LGBTQI+ Travelers : See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Sri Lanka, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. The Sri Lankan Supreme Court has directed that steps be taken to provide easy access for persons with disabilities to public buildings. Although there are regulations on accessibility in place, lack of wheelchair access in most buildings limits access for people with disabilities. Potholes and sidewalks in poor repair can make movement very difficult. The road network in Sri Lanka is improving, but many roads remain in medium to poor condition. Sidewalks and road crossings in most major towns tend to be congested with vendors, stray dogs, and groups of people loitering on street corners. 

Ambulance Services: For ambulance services in the Sri Lanka, dial 1990.

Ambulance services are widely available, but response times vary, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Ambulances are typically not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little medical equipment. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Sri Lanka. 

• Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.  
• Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)  
• Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)  
• General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)  

The Department of State, U.S. embassies, and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medical Facilities: There are six large hospitals in the Colombo area, including four facilities with emergency medical and trauma service: Asiri Surgical Hospital; Lanka Hospital; Asiri Central Hospital; and the government-run National Hospital of Sri Lanka. Medical facilities outside Colombo are limited. Hospitals and doctors typically require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. The availability of medical supplies is uneven; therefore, travelers should always carry any prescription medications with them. Serious medical conditions can require evacuation to the United States or to a nearby country with more advanced medical facilities, such as Thailand or Singapore. Neither Thailand nor Singapore require U.S. citizens to have entry visas.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescriptions in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Please visit U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Sri Lanka's Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Sri Lanka.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Water Quality: In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Infectious Diseases: Several mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue fever, Chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis are present in Sri Lanka. Dengue fever, in particular, is widespread in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, where the capital Colombo is located. Adequate mosquito protection is strongly advised to prevent this serious illness.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommended vaccines that are specific to this region include Japanese encephalitis and typhoid (and rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis for some travelers).

For additional health information about Sri Lanka, please visit:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: While in Sri Lanka, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Vehicular traffic in Sri Lanka moves on the left (British style). Traffic in Colombo can be congested. Narrow two-lane highways, overloaded with trucks, poorly driven buses, and a variety of conveyances on the road, ranging from ox carts and bicycles to new four-wheel-drive vehicles, make driving dangerous. Unexpected roadblocks and one-way streets are common and may not be clearly marked. Many visitors hire cars and drivers for long trips through the country. Individuals who choose to hire three-wheeled vehicles (“tuks” or “three wheelers”) should use metered vehicles or negotiate prices beforehand to avoid confrontations upon arrival. If you are renting a vehicle, you should specifically request one with working seatbelts.

Heavy rains sometimes cause flooding which can make roads inaccessible for several days and bring with them the risk of landslides.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. The GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety considerations.

Public Transportation: While public buses are readily available, the U.S. Embassy does not recommend using them due to safety concerns.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Sri Lanka’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Sri Lanka, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Sri Lanka’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Sri Lanka should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For Additional Travel Information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Tourism Study Programs - University of Colombo

About the University

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The oldest University in Sri Lanka, the University of Colombo is a sprawling complex located in the heart of the capital city of Colombo. In keeping with its motto “Buddhi Sarvathra Bhrajate”, Sanskrit for “Wisdom Enlightens”, the University of Colombo strives to maintain academic excellence in all areas of study. The University of Colombo has 7 Faculties with 43 Academic Departments, a Campus, a School, 7 Institutes and several Centres and Units. Many undergraduate and postgraduate study courses in the fields of Arts, Science, Medicine, Management, Finance, Law, Education, IT, Aesthetic Studies. Molecular Biology etc are conducted by the University. The University also offers several other services, such as library services, career guidance, and services for differently-abled students. Student life is enhanced by a plethora of extra-curricular activities offered on campus. The beautiful playground and the modern gymnasium offer sportsmen and women the opportunity to exploit and develop their abilities to the fullest. The New Arts Theatre is often the arena for spotlighting the dramatic/ musical talents of our student population. Today, the University of Colombo with a proud history of over 115 years continues in its endeavour to meet the challenge of maintaining its position as the “Metropolitan University, Modern and International in Outlook and Character”. The location of the University affords the student population all the advantages of a “metropolitan university”, with easy access to international information/ resource centres, libraries, theatres, sports complexes etc. Its central location within the City of Colombo provides easy access to a wide range of cultural, entertainment and business facilities. The University of Colombo has a multi-cultural multi-ethnic student and staff population, fostering social harmony, cultural diversity, equal opportunity and unity.

Vision 2 Voice

This magazine is an outlet to share pertinent information with all the tourism industry experts, academics, and students who have a thirst to quench the tourism industry in Sri Lanka. Also, it is a platform generated for all the students to obtain knowledge and for the upcoming writers to show up their creativity, writing skills and potential outside the classroom. This magazine is surely an eye-opener for students and industry experts who are eager to collect new knowledge about the industry. For this debut issue, several interviews and articles covering the theme of “Rethinking Tourism” are included. Contact the Editorial Team [email protected] or 0768044440. Advertise in Vision 2 Voice Submit an article

Message from Dr. D.A.C. Suranga Silva

When we take this into consideration in tourism education, universities need to develop study programs and on occasion tailor- made programs rather than ready made ones to address the industry human capital requirements. This is our goal right now.

• Take Creative decisions
• Use Innovative Management Techniques
• Create effective Marketing campaigns
• Show Responsible Leadership

I believe that this can only be achieved through the industry professionals and decision makers who can combine their industry expertise with scientific and academic wisdom. Participants of this academic program are 90% from the tourism industry. These programs provide the students with application-oriented industry interactive, evidence based analytical knowledge. Our students also discuss the future prospects and the potential for the future development of Sri Lanka Tourism. We have made efforts through this program to inculcate among our students the need for research-oriented sensitivity in handling contemporary issues and challenges for sustainable development in Sri Lanka. Designing quality tourism services and competitive products has become more important than ever if we want to position Sri Lanka as one of the best destination in the World.

Choosing a career path should be driven by the desire of what one really wants to do, and tourism is such a versatile industry, learning is life long so why not choose to ‘Learn what you Love’! I know that studying at the DTTEHM Program will be exciting, interesting, colourful and challenging, yet also a very rewarding experience. I encourage you to now take the next step in ‘creating your tomorrow’.

Faithfully, Dr. D.A.C. Suranga Silva, Course Co-ordinator University of Colombo

Why Choose Us

Introduction.

The Economics Department of the University of Colombo offers multi-disciplinary programmes in Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Management from Diploma to Masters level. They are especially designed to respond to the increasing demand for multi-skilled practitioners and professionals who are able to take responsibility for a wide range of complex industry processes to contribute towards the growth ad sustainability of the industry. These programmes prepare them to improve their knowledge through an interactive and application-oriented approach to meet the present challenges of global trends in the travel and tourism industry. The programmes provide practical and analytical competence in socio-economic, ecological, marketing, managerial, accounting, information technological and legal aspects of the travel and tourism industry. Read More

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Sri Lanka Railway Tours

• Train Tours

Scenic Train Tours in Sri Lanka

Train travel is one of the cheapest and most convenient ways to see the country. You get to enjoy the most spectacular scenery while still having the opportunity to grab some food, talk to locals and meet fellow travelers. You can also get off at any station you like and get as adventures as possible.

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country that’s ideal for train trips. The route from Ella to Kandy is considered the most picturesque in the whole country so if you want to enjoy some train travel – this is the perfect way to do it. It is quite a tourist attraction so be prepared to make lots of new friends along the way. Enjoy local treats like mango with cinnamon, freshly cut pineapple and crispy papadums, rice and curry, corn with butter and many-many more. Another beautiful route is Pollonaruwa – Colombo, which offers a wide range of gorgeous sceneries along the way. The British built the Railway System in Sri Lanka back in 1864 for coffee and tea transportation between Colombo and Hill Country. Railway connects the biggest cities in Sri Lanka and offers several classes for all kinds of travelers: 3rd class seats are pretty crowdy and are available in all trains; 2nd class seats can be found on inter-city trains; 1st class air-con seats are available on some inner-city routes; 1st class observation car can be fund mostly on the Main Line; 1st class sleeper can be found in overnight trains.

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Train tours best hotels / accommodations.

Best hotels to stay for easy access to train tours.

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Have you ever dreamed of being in the perfect place for emotions? You’ll get amazed about train tours and its beauty once you start watching these videos. You’ll also feel like capturing the exact scene lively as you come across these spectacular videos.

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Trincomalee Beach

Sigiriya Ancient City

Nuwara Eliya Nature

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Polonnaruwa Ancient City

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Tailor-made private tours.

Our private tour packages can be tailored or built completely from scratch to suit your needs.

Quality and service

We closely monitor client satisfaction and are consistently seeking new ways to exceed our clients’ expectations.

Save time and effort

Researching and organizing your own holiday tour package can be a stressful task. Let us do the work for you as the top travel agent in Sri Lanka!

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Be your best self

Get acquainted with all the etiquette and manners that need to create the first impression of the customers.

Pioneers in the Hospitality Industry

Our courses are curated to achieve high standards in the fields food & beverage industry

Preparing you to advance in the industry

If you aspire to become a professional in the industry of hospitality, experience in housekeeping is vital.

Empower yourself!

Acquire essential skills & training to open up career opportunities in the tourism industry.

Welcome to SLITHM

Open up career prospects locally and globally with internationally recognized hotel& hospitality programs.

Established in 1964, the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management ( SLITHM) is the only government-approved premier Institute in Sri Lanka. The purpose of this establishment was to train young men and women to advance further into the hospitality and travel industry. SLITHM is managed by the Ministry of Tourism. Further, in order to facilitate students island-wide, provincial schools have been set up in Anuradhapura, Bandarawela, Kandy, Koggala, Ratnapura, Kurunegala, Jaffna and Batticaloa.

At SLITHM we aspire to provide our students with the best experience in their relevant fields catering towards the advancement of their knowledge.

Apprenticeship Courses

Our Apprenticeship Courses are designed to offer hands-on experience within an array of specialized areas for the students, in order to advance their skills further. Enroll in our short courses and expand your horizons!

Hotel & Hospitality

This widening field is much sought after on an international level and includes a plethora of skills that need to be handled efficiently and with care. At SLITHM we aspire to bring students a glimpse of this experience so that they may widen their skills and needs.

Travel and Tourism

As Sri Lanka is a tourism hotspot this industry is a widely sought-after field as it holds many perspectives in terms of career. Engaging in any one of our travel and tourism courses will indefinitely give students an opportunity to put their best step forward!

Facilities at SLITHM

SLITHM seeks to offer many extra facilities to the students enabling them to experience a holistic education whilst developing both their soft skills as well as their hard skills.

Training Kitchen

A fully equipped and state-of-the-art kitchen for students to use.

Training Restaurants

Preparing the students for the real experience through our curriculum

Samudra Training School

Training done by professionals in the field to advance knowledge.

A well-read and researched library is on offer for our students.

Our students are given the opportunity to take care of their physical health too.

Our IT library provides students with much-needed IT-related material.

Why Choose Us

At SLITHM our priority is to ensure that every student who passes through our doors is a well-versed and wholesome individual. Our institute looks into our students' productivity by training them with essential life skills and helping them to reach new heights. We provide equal opportunities for our students to learn in an equitable and hospitable environment that will help them in many ways and ensure sustainable growth in the tourism and hospitality industry and create inter-connected networks while building partnerships.

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News & Events

Closing Ceremony of Short Term Program

The Closing Ceremony – Short Term Program held @ SLITHM – COLOMBO with the participation of ADB representatives, SLITHM Management & other Distinguished Guests for the event

National Bartenders Competition – Hotel Schools Category

The National Bartenders Competition – Hotel Schools Category competition was held with 35 students participating from all Hotel Schools including William Anglis on 7th of June at SLITHM Auditorium.

Medicine Donation to Apeksha Hospital

SLITHM donated essential medicines to the Apeksha Hospital as part of its activities to comemorate the Vesak Festival.

Event Calander

Step into a rewarding career with career-oriented hotel and hospitality programs

Learn essential skills such as knife skills and life skills to everything in between from our carefully curated courses that will enable you to understand everything that you love about hospitality and tourism. 

Announcements

New recruitment.

Paper Advertisement – Lecturer, Assistant Lecturer (English) https://www.slithm.edu.lk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lecturer-Assistant-Lecturer-SLITHM-En-www.gazette.lk_.pdf

Paper Advertisement – Lecturer, Assistant Lecturer (Sinhala) https://www.slithm.edu.lk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lecturer-Assistant-Lecturer-SLITHM-Si-www.gazette.lk_.pdf

Paper Advertisement – Management Assistant, Director (Finance), Assistant Director (Maintenance) (English) https://www.slithm.edu.lk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Management-Assistant-Director-Assistant-Director-SLITHM-En-www.gazette.lk_.pdf

Paper Advertisement – Management Assistant, Director (Finance), Assistant Director (Maintenance) (Sinhala) https://www.slithm.edu.lk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Management-Assistant-Director-Assistant-Director-SLITHM-Si-www.gazette.lk_.pdf

Published on 2024. 19. 4

Full Scholarship for a new Diploma Course

Dear Past Students,

As a former student of the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism & Hotel Management (SLITHM), I am pleased to inform all graduates of the 2022 and 2023 academic years of an exciting opportunity for further academic advancement: a new diploma course offered by the Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management in Salzburg, Austria, on a full scholarship basis for one student.

However, please note that candidates are required to commit to joining SLITHM for a minimum period of 10 years upon completion of the diploma course, subject to specific conditions.

To apply for this opportunity, interested individuals must submit their applications to SLITHM before the specified closing date of 01st April , 2024, to the Registrar by Hand (Hard Copy) prior to the application deadline.

Published on 2024. 26. 3

New Recruitment – Visiting Lecturer

Paper Advertisement – English https://www.slithm.edu.lk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Visiting-Lecturers.pdf

Appication Form https://www.slithm.edu.lk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/APPLICATION-FORM-FOR-THE-POST-OF-SLITHM.pdf

Visiting Lecturer Requirement https://www.slithm.edu.lk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Summary-of-visiting-lecturer-requirement-3.pdf

Published on 2024. 12. 2

Our Partners

We are committed to creating strong academic partnerships with recognized world-leading institutions. We are proud to announce that we have partnered with a wide range of institutions that underpins our excellence. Find the list of our partners below.

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Sl becomes a fastest growing travel destination earning us$1.25 billion revenue, us ambassador nominee to sri lanka commits to counter chinese investments, government to attract over us$ 3 billion in foreign investments this year, sri lanka original narrative summary: 13/05.

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By: Staff Writer

May 13, Colombo (LNW): Currently, Sri Lanka is the 5th fastest-growing tourism destination in the world and is all set to achieve even greater and more sustained success in 2024 with tourist arrivals expected to reach dizzying heights.

As per data released via www.travelofpath.com , Sri Lanka ranks behind Tunisia, Mexico, Morocco and the Dominican Republic as the 5th fastest growing tourism destination and on the back of such a milestone, more can be expected from the tiny island nation which has had its fair share of ups and downs in recent times.

Crucially, stakeholders within Sri Lanka’s tourism industry are of the opinion that as many as 4 million tourists will visit the country which will have a significant impact on the local economy.

Furthermore, a huge chunk of the credit must be given to the Ministry of Tourism and the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority for their combined efforts taken to enhance the appeal of Sri Lanka towards the latter half of 2023..

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has demonstrated a remarkable resurgence, raking in over $ 1.25 billion in revenue during the first four months of 2024, marking a staggering 92% surge compared to the same period last year.

This robust performance not only signals a strong recovery but also highlights the industry’s potential for growth and resilience in the face of adversity.

The acceleration in revenue generation during the first four months is particularly noteworthy, considering that achieving such a milestone took the country seven months in the previous year.

April earnings amounted to $ 225.7 million, reflecting 52.3% increase year-on-year (YoY).

Although, on a month-on-month basis, April earnings experienced a 33% decline, indicative of the industry’s seasonal fluctuations, it remains the highest monthly earnings recorded since 2020.

Despite grappling with challenges stemming from the Easter Sunday attacks in 2019, Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has not only weathered many storms but emerged stronger. The resilience has instilled fresh confidence in the sector’s ability to bounce back and thrive.

Buoyed by ongoing promotional efforts and a renewed focus on safety and visitor satisfaction, Sri Lanka is poised to reclaim its position as a top tourist destination globally. The surge in arrivals, totalling an impressive 784,651 in the first four months of 2024, underscores this optimistic outlook, representing a significant increase from the previous year.

Looking ahead, Sri Lanka Tourism aims to attract 2.3 million visitors and generate over $ 4 billion in income for 2024. As tourism remains a crucial source of foreign exchange earnings for the country, efforts are underway to attract high-end tourists, with plans to increase the average spending per visitor to $ 4,000.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) is targeting 2.5 million visitors to spend over $ 500 per day, with a focus on attracting high-spending travelers, who currently constitute a significant portion of tourists visiting the country.

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Emirates Inks Strategic Tourism Agreements with Hong Kong, Seychelles and Sri Lanka

DUBAI, UAE, 7 May 2024: Underscoring Emirates’ commitment to boost tourism inflows across its network, the airline has reaffirmed its strategic cooperation with Tourism Seychelles and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and has forged a new partnership with the Hong Kong Tourism Board.

Emirates has pledged its renewed commitment with Tourism Seychelles, supporting the island’s efforts to promoting tourism and trade to the country. The MoU was signed by Ahmed Khoory, Emirates’ SVP Commercial - West Asia & Indian Ocean, and Sherin Francis, Principal Secretary Tourism Department, Tourism Seychelles, in the presence of Nabil Sultan, Emirates’ Executive Vice President, Passenger Sales and Country Management.

Commenting on the airline’s commitment to promoting Seychelles to its customer base, Ahmed Khoory, said: “Seychelles is a key leisure destination in our network that we have proudly been operating in since 2005. Our partnership aimed at promoting tourism to the nation goes back to 2013 and we remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting its tourism industry. Seychelles is a tourist destination which is highly popular amongst travellers from key markets in our network and we are proud to play a role in driving traffic flows to the island through our efforts.”

Under the agreement Emirates has committed to supporting travel agents and tour operators in key strategic markets in their efforts to promote Seychelles as a leisure destination. This includes the development of special holiday packages and providing other incentives, marketing support and organising familiarisation trips designed to highlight its appeal to global customers.

Emirates also reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to promoting tourism to Sri Lanka.

The MoU was signed by Ahmed Khoory, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Commercial West Asia & Indian Ocean, and Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, in the presence of Honourable Harin Fernando, Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs of Sri Lanka and Nabil Sultan, Emirates’ Executive Vice President, Passenger Sales and Country Management.

Now in its 38th year of operating in Sri Lanka, Emirates will continue its efforts to support the island nation’s tourism agenda through the development of special packages designed to appeal to a broader set of audiences and familiarisation trips from key feeder markets.  As part of its wider efforts to support the Indian Ocean nation, Emirates will also engage closely with travel agents and tour operators in key strategic markets to help showcase the destination’s offerings to customers across its global network.

Ahmed Khoory said: “Sri Lanka is one of the very first destinations Emirates launched operations to so our 38-year relationship with the country is one we take special pride in.  We remain committed to deepening our relationship and playing a key role in promoting Sri Lanka as a key leisure destination in our network and contributing to the tourism and trade sectors through our passenger and cargo services.”

Emirates launched its services to Sri Lanka in 1986 and currently operates two direct daily flights to Colombo utilising the Boeing 777-300ER as well as an additional daily service via Male. It is the only international carrier to serve the country with First Class services – offering passengers world-class products and superior comfort in air and on-ground.

Emirates and the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will work together with the aim to boost inbound tourism into Hong Kong from key target markets in the Middle East and Europe.

The MoU was signed by Orhan Abbas, Senior Vice President Commercial Operations Far East and Becky IP, Deputy Executive Director of Hong Kong Tourism Board. The agreement not only reaffirms Emirates' commitment to supporting Hong Kong's rebounding travel and tourism industry, but also sets out key joint initiatives shared by both organisations to drive trade and tourism into the city.

Orhan Abbas commented: "We are delighted to establish this strategic partnership with the HKTB to spur growth in the local travel and tourism industry. The city has always been popular among our global customers and it continues to attract visitors all year round thanks to its unique cosmopolitan attractions. Through our extensive global network, we will work closely with the HKTB to introduce travellers from key Middle East and GCC markets to the vibrant culture, Michelin-starred culinary scene and dynamic attractions that Hong Kong has to offer."

The MoU seeks to pursue various joint activities including familiarisation trips, a comprehensive promotional plan, and targeted advertising campaigns.

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Emirates airline.

The Emirates story started in 1985 when we launched operations with just two aircraft.

Today, we fly the world’s biggest fleets of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, offering our customers the comforts of the latest and most efficient wide-body aircraft in the skies.

We inspire travelers around the world with our growing network of worldwide destinations, industry leading inflight entertainment, regionally inspired cuisine, and world-class service. Read on to find out more.

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Is Sri Lanka the new luxury hospitality getaway for Israelis?

W ith Israel’s Foreign Ministry’s recent travel warning against visiting the Maldives “due to the heightened anti-Israel atmosphere, including public comments by officials,” I wondered what might be the Asian luxury alternative in 2024. It was somewhat surprising to hear this winter that Arkia Airlines announced its first-ever direct flights to Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, and I was definitely intrigued. Is this island the alternative?

Since childhood, Sri Lanka , formerly named Ceylon, has been associated in my mind with tea. It’s a mysterious island in the Indian Ocean, close to India’s southern coast. I must admit that aiming east to explore Thailand and Vietnam was always more appealing. A couple of years ago, when my son’s teenage girlfriend vanished there for almost a month to surf in the ocean in a mysterious village named Weligama, I became curious.

I decided to visit this island country for ten days, so I booked a flight via Dubai , and after a long (and rather expensive) trip, my spouse and I landed at the Negombo airport, near Colombo. I was curious to reveal the mystery of how the country survived four years of endless misfortune and moved on to focus on reboosting tourism. The arrival of travelers dropped drastically in Easter 2019 after the ISIS bombings of luxury hotels and churches that killed more than 250 people. COVID hit Sri Lanka before it had a chance to recover. In 2022, the country experienced economic and political turmoil.

What are the chances of starting over? In 2023, Sri Lanka welcomed 1,487,000 tourists, an increase of more than 100% from 2022. Optimism permeated the air as I met drivers, hotel receptionists, restaurant managers, and tour guides at the start of 2024.

Exploring the wonders of Sri Lanka’s inlands was a marvel. Tea plantations in the inlands contribute significantly to the economy. Tea plantations in the inlands contribute significantly to the economy. The early 19th century saw plantations terraced into the mountainsides, accompanied by adjacent factories. Between Kandy and Ella, visitors will enjoy the product most associated with this island.

DAMBULLA’S FAMED rock cave temple houses some of the finest works of Buddhist art in Sri Lanka. The dozens of Buddha statues and his disciples left us speechless. Climbing the endless steps accompanied by jumping monkeys was surrealistic.

The massive Sigiriya Lion Rock column in the middle of the jungle is a powerful creation of nature. For my money, it is the highlight of the Sri Lanka visit. Climbing 1,270 steps is a challenging effort. While heat and humidity are important considerations, the adventure is truly unforgettable. The fortress at the very top dates back to the 5th century, when King Kasyapa chose this site as his new capital.

By the ocean, Negombo’s fish scenery is a must visit. Unfamiliar fish are presented here. Most of them are laid out on enormous mats made of coconut fiber, an age-old method of open-air drying.

We were also eager to discover nature in the southern part of the island, at the most famous national park here, Yala. This gigantic area of light forest, grassy plains, and brackish lagoons is very rich in wildlife. It was exciting to encounter deer, buffaloes, and rare bird species. Although this is not an African safari, we certainly enjoyed the experience. Elephants attracted us the most; however, the main tracks and viewing spots were crowded, especially when a leopard was in sight. It is not a common sight for the visitors that flock to this park by the numbers.

Galle is yet another city to visit. Known for its fort, this fortified old city is surrounded by impressive sea walls; it is the largest remaining colonial-era fortress in all of Asia. Its narrow streets reflect the rich history of Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule.

IN THE capital city Colombo, a bustling, lively metropolitan, we visited the marvelous Gangaramaya Temple and paid tribute to Sri Lanka’s independence at the city center national monument. Tourism experts in this capital faced the challenge of increasing the number of tourists, particularly high-end travelers, this year. To achieve this, the country launched its first global tourism marketing campaign in 16 years under the slogan, “You Will Come Back For More.” Israel was not included.

Does Sri Lanka offer luxury resorts by the ocean to attract the wealthy tourists from India, China, Russia, Britain, and even Israel?

Apparently, the leading unofficial ambassador for Sri Lanka’s luxury hospitality in Israel is Tamir Kobrin, the general manager of the King David Hotel in Jerusalem. Kobrin was in charge of opening Anantara hotels and resort properties in Sri Lanka more than a decade ago. Most Israelis are familiar with Asian Six Senses hotels and resorts due to the opening of a hotel in Shaharut in the Negev. Anantara Hotels & Resorts is the flagship luxury brand for Thai conglomerate Minor Hotels. This brand combines the hospitality of its homeland with the modern, global luxury hotel industry and what today’s traveler wants.

“My main goal in opening these hotels, the first international brand outside the capital Colombo, was to combine luxury with local Sri Lankan heritage and tradition. This is what high-end travelers look for today”, said Kobrin. “In India and the Maldives I have experienced the success of the local atmosphere incorporated with luxury. In Sri Lanka, we revived that concept. Guests were welcomed and departed with dancers demonstrating their village folklore or religious blessings. Cooking classes and workshops for home-made food were on the agenda, and the entire atmosphere was local. That certainly paved the path for the curiosity of the high-end market.”

Kobrin’s first hotel in Sri Lanka was in Tangalle, a southern fishing port situated on a bay protected from the ocean by an enclosing reef – an important anchorage during Dutch and British rule. It is well reputed for its beautiful and virtually untouched coastline, which is favored by those seeking a romantic beach getaway or the perfect honeymoon destination.

Kobrin is apparently a legend among the local veteran employees in this Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle retreat. The resort sits on a rocky outcrop near a golden-hued beach fringed by pampering lagoons and coconut palms that overlook the roaring Indian Ocean. It is certainly a place that makes guests feel miles away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. One can sit for hours at this point or on the nearby top of the cliff and endlessly observe the ocean landscape. The resort offers 152 rooms with 32 pool villas, and it’s surrounded by 21 beautiful acres of natural animal sanctuary.

Closer to Colombo, the Anantara Kalutara Resort is another monumental and friendly hotel, inspired by the impressive architecture of Geoffrey Bawa, the late reputed genius of Sri Lanka. Bawa is the father of Tropical Modernist architecture. One cannot ignore the main structure, which is rarely seen in any resort on the worldwide.

It is the hub for arriving guests, who are welcomed by young folk dancers. It is home for check-in and check-out procedures, the bar, the lounge, and the main dining room – impressive multifunctional planning, utilizing winds and fresh air. With an extraordinary, secluded beachfront setting on the picturesque southwest coast, where the Kalu Ganga River meets the Indian Ocean, this resort, with 142 rooms and villas and a unique Ayurvedic spa, offers an authentic local leisure experience for the upmarket.

“What are the challenges?” I asked Anantara Hotels and Resorts Country Director Keith Tomkies.

“We need to expand to new markets. There is a constant need by the local Ministry of Tourism to find ways to encourage new visitors. A major challenge is the increase in the number of flights arriving here,” Tomkies said. He acknowledged that I was the first Israeli he has ever met. “I am thrilled with the direct flight from Tel Aviv. Tourists from the Holy Land are most welcome. 

Kalutara is around 90 minutes from the airport. Visitors will surely enjoy the rich history and culture that Sri Lanka presents, together with the many experiences the resorts offer,” he promises.

Although Israelis might find the airfare costs high, staying in Sri Lanka’s luxury resorts on the island is much more affordable than staying in leisure hotels in any place in Israel or Europe. You can be sure to visit a country that showcases a rich local heritage and remains unaffected by heavy tourism, unlike popular Asian countries. It’s a destination to explore.

The writer is the Travel Flash Tips publisher.