walking tour colombo

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Redefining Old  Colombo

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"Walking is man's best medicine" ~ Hippocrates

Meet Mark Forbes of Colombo City Walks – a curator, researcher, photographer, wildlife enthusiast and the man behind the brainchild ‘Colombo City Walks’, founded to introduce the hidden treasures of the commercial capital of Colombo to locals and foreign guests alike.

Meet at the Dutch Hospital Shopping precinct and enjoy three exciting hours as Mark takes you through the streets, alleyways, passageways, shops, hotels, churches and buildings of Fort and Pettah.

While on your walk you will find the oldest clock-tower in Asia, see the original colonial era emblem of HSBC and learn about the budget allocated and spent by the British government to build the Grand Oriental Hotel.

You will end your walking tour back at the Dutch Hospital where you may enjoy a beer (or two) reminiscing on the days’ events.

Colombo City Walks is a personalized city walk through the old city of Colombo, an unforgettable experience with your host as you walk through the picturesque streets of Fort and the mayhem of Pettah. It has been over 8 years now, since Mark Forbes, the man behind Colombo City Walks, started to share his love and knowledge enabling guests to spend an evening in beautiful colonial Colombo, submerged in the beauty within the city that just cannot be experienced by whizzing through in a vehicle. Continuous research goes into the areas you will visit and we truly believe that we learn something new every day.

When contacting us via phone or email, you will either speak with Mark or his wife Ruvi as we are a company that feel personalization is key, hence we have just three others Shenelle, Sri & Lakshmi who work with us.

Daily Walks

Colombo City Walks is a leisurely 2-3 hour walk that takes you through the city’s commercial heritage in terms of reflecting on the times and the ways of the Portuguese, Dutch and English, which in turn, gives these citizens a unique accent, a way of conducting their day-to-day business and unique palette. ... business and unique palette. he main focus however, to all of this is that this walk takes you through a myriad of buildings that date back from 17thcentury to the 90’s that were erected mainly during the Dutch & British rule (but we are tremendously lucky to still have a few of Dutch Architecture to gaze upon). Nothing of the Portuguese rule remains, sadly. With the dawn of the post-conflict times, we see the tremendous effort being put into this area to refurbish and bring these buildings to their hay-day wondrous state. It is an opportune time to visit the capital on foot, before some of these buildings are taken over by well recognized companies and are no longer in their shabby-chic comfort zone. You will hardly come across a person who is not willing for their picture to be taken… ‘The Pearl of the Indian Ocean’ is also being coined as a ‘Land of Many Smiles’ making one second guess if it is Sri Lanka or Taiwan that should get this nickname. Visiting Pettah with us is also an option during this walk. This market place is older than the buildings you will see; and as non-touristic as you will get. An area best explored with a local. We meet at the cement tables outside Colombo Fort Cafe/Ministry of Crab. These restaurants are situated within the Old Dutch Hospital Precinct in Fort. Read more

The main focus however, to all of this is that this walk takes you through a myriad of buildings that date back from 17th century to the 90’s that were erected mainly during the Dutch & British rule (but we are tremendously lucky to still have a few of Dutch Architecture to gaze upon). Nothing of the Portuguese rule remains, sadly. With the dawn of the post-conflict times, we see the tremendous effort being put into this area to refurbish and bring these buildings to their hay-day wondrous state.

It is an opportune time to visit the capital on foot, before some of these buildings are taken over by well recognized companies and are no longer in their shabby-chic comfort zone.

You will hardly come across a person who is not willing for their picture to be taken… ‘The Pearl of the Indian Ocean’ is also being coined as a ‘Land of Many Smiles’ making one second guess if it is Sri Lanka or Taiwan that should get this nickname.

Visiting Pettah with us is also an option during this walk. This market place is older than the buildings you will see and as non-touristic as you will get. An area best explored with a local.

We meet at the cement tables outside Colombo Fort Café / Ministry of Crab. These restaurants are situated within the Old Dutch Hospital Precinct in Fort.

Private Walks

The urban trail - dodgy bar tour of colombo, the urban trail – foodie tour, "in every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks" ~ john muir, happy walkers.

My family went on a Colombo City Walk with Shanelle. She was excellent! Not only was she informative, filled with interesting and knowledgeable information, but she was delightfully fun to be with! She explained the history of a building while playing entertaining games with my nine year old son. By the end of the tour we felt like she was a close family friend and we did not want to say goodbye! Highly recommend her tours!

Hawkins Biggins

Our travel agency arranged a walking tour in Colombo. We were not sure we were going to like it, but it was a very good surprise. Mark B. Forbes knows a lot about the old buildings in the area of fort. We is an enthusiast of architecture and loves his city. The walk was informative and fun and he even took us for a drink at the old Grand Hotel. He also knows people who work in the area and talks to everyone. We loved it and recommend it.

What a wonderful way to see the old parts of this City! With Mark's passion for preserving so much of these wonderful Colonial buildings, together with his photography background, I couldn't think of a better way for us to see this city than through his eyes, experience & detailed research, especially when you throw in his quirky sense of humour. A very entertaining afternoon, & Mark's certainly "up there" with the best tour guides we've had around the world.

PetalAustralia

We really enjoyed the city walk which we did last Tuesday afternoon with Mark, our very knowledgeable guide. As well as meeting other travellers in our group of 16 people we discovered much about the buildings in the Fort area, the history of the city as well as visiting the Pettah markets, with their hustle and bustle, via tuk tuk in the evening. The stop to taste some local food and the drink at the Grand Oriental Hotel made for an interesting rest point. We highly recommend.

Rosepetal Bunbury

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The Ultimate Guide to Free Walking Tours in Colombo

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Introduction

Colombo, the vibrant capital city of Sri Lanka, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning architecture. Exploring the city on foot is undoubtedly the best way to truly immerse yourself in its charm and authenticity. In this guide, we will dive into everything you need to know about free walking tours in Colombo, including the top tours, must-visit attractions, and practical tips for an unforgettable experience.

Why Choose a Free Walking Tour?

Free walking tours are a fantastic way to discover a city, especially if you are on a budget or want to explore the city at a leisurely pace. These tours are led by knowledgeable local guides who are passionate about sharing their love for the city. Not only are they informative, but they also offer an opportunity to explore hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations that are not usually covered by conventional tours.

Top Free Walking Tours in Colombo

1. colombo city walking tour.

The Colombo City Walking Tour is a must for anyone visiting the city. This tour takes you through the heart of Colombo, covering major landmarks such as the Galle Face Green, Dutch Hospital, Independence Square, and Pettah Market. The experienced guides share fascinating stories and historical insights as you stroll through the vibrant streets. The tour typically lasts around three hours and starts at the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct.

2. Fort District Walking Tour

If you’re interested in colonial architecture and Sri Lanka’s colonial past, the Fort District Walking Tour is perfect for you. This tour focuses on the historic fort area, showcasing beautiful buildings like the Old Dutch Hospital, the Grand Oriental Hotel, and the Cargills & Millers building. The knowledgeable guides narrate the stories behind these structures, giving you a glimpse into the city’s colonial heritage.

3. Pettah Market Walking Tour

Pettah Market is a bustling bazaar famous for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of goods. This walking tour takes you through the vibrant streets of Pettah, where you can explore the bustling markets, spice shops, and local food stalls. The tour allows you to witness the everyday life of the locals and experience the vibrant energy of the area.

Key Attractions to Visit

1. gangaramaya temple.

The Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Colombo. Its stunning architecture and intricate decorations make it a must-visit attraction. The temple also houses a fascinating museum with a collection of religious artifacts and cultural exhibits.

2. Viharamahadevi Park

Viharamahadevi Park is a peaceful oasis amidst the chaos of the city. It offers a tranquil setting with beautiful gardens, lush greenery, and a peaceful lake. Take a leisurely stroll or enjoy a picnic while admiring the scenic beauty.

3. Colombo National Museum

For history enthusiasts, the Colombo National Museum is a must-visit. It showcases a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, royal regalia, and traditional masks. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

Practical Tips for an Unforgettable Tour

Here are some practical tips to make the most of your free walking tour experience in Colombo:

• Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather as you will be doing a fair amount of walking.
• Carry a bottle of water and stay hydrated throughout the tour.
• Bring a camera to capture the beautiful sights and moments during the tour.
• Don’t forget to tip your guide if you enjoyed the tour. While the tour is free, guides rely on tips to support themselves.
• Join a group tour for a more social experience or opt for a private tour if you prefer a personalized experience.

Embarking on a free walking tour in Colombo is an excellent way to explore the city’s cultural heritage, experience its vibrant atmosphere, and gain valuable insights from local guides. So put on your walking shoes, get ready to immerse yourself in the charm of Colombo, and enjoy an unforgettable journey through its captivating streets!

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Colombo city walk

Revel in a fascinating walking tour through the city of colombo.

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A walking tour of Colombo

Enjoy this relaxed walk through a bustling and vibrant city punctuated with nuggets of Dutch history. Explore historical Old Colombo, known as Pettah, during a leisurely 3-4 hour guided walk that takes you through the city’s ancient heritage. Discover how the city grew under Portuguese, Dutch and English rule and how several traditions remain in how people conduct their day-to-day business. Discover stunning examples of Dutch architecture with buildings that date back to the 17th century. The Dutch ruled the Sri Lankan coast from about 1640, when they defeated the Portuguese, until 1796 when the British took over after Napoleon’s forces controlled the Netherlands.

Meet your guide and head off on foot through the busy trading centre of Pettah. The walk starts from Wolvendaal Church completed in 1758 with a belfry that called the faithful from the bottom of the hill to service. Stop at the Colombo Dutch Museum in the 17th century residence of a Dutch Governor on Prince Street and visit the country’s largest wholesale bazaar where you are encouraged to haggle and decide on a price before purchasing anything.

Have a drink in a local café and continue to York Street past British colonial buildings into the fort area. The tour ends with a visit to the Dutch Hospital, the oldest surviving Dutch building in Colombo believed to date back to at least 1681, where you can grab a drink or a meal at one of the many excellent restaurants.

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COLOMBO WALKS - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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Pride Month 2024: Your ultimate San Francisco event guide

I n many respects, San Francisco is synonymous with Pride. San Francisco was the first city in the world to fly a rainbow flag , and the first in the state to elect an openly gay city official. It’s the only city in the country with a drag laureate, and it may be the only place in the world where a group of queer and trans nuns can draw thousands to the LGBTQ+ friendly “hunky” Jesus costume contest.

In the 20th century, the city’s reputation of tolerance drew LGBTQ+ youths from across the country, who turned the Castro, SoMa and the Mission into hotspots of one of the world’s most vibrant queer subcultures. No surprise, then, that Pride month spills into nearly every corner of cultural life in San Francisco: galleries, nightclubs, coffee shops and even the public library system. To help you pack your calendar, we’ve curated a list of our top picks for the coming month.

Here’s our shortlist of the events to catch this month:

HUNGRY exhibition at Rosebud Gallery, June 6, 6 - 10 p.m.:

The queer- and trans-owned Tenderloin gallery will launch into Pride month with HUNGRY, packing the room with pieces from 23 Bay Area artists. In keeping with the “HUNGRY” title, there will be a taco truck. 

Pride Kickoff Party at the Tenderloin Museum, June 7, 6 - 9 p.m.:

The Tenderloin Museum’s Pride kickoff celebrates the history of the 1966 Compton’s Cafeteria Riot, when drag queens and trans women started a riot at an all-night diner in response to police harassment. Tickets are $25, but nobody will be turned away if they can’t pay.

Opening reception,  “Erotic Resistance” at GLBT museum, June 7, 6 - 8 p.m. 

“Erotic Resistance” lays out untold stories of San Francisco’s strip club workers and their roles in the city’s bohemian art scene and LGBTQ activism. Browse through art pieces and ephemera that trace the intertwined histories of performance and resistance. Tickets are $5-10, on a sliding scale.

DRIP at the Stud, June 7, 10 p.m. - 2 a.m.:

Stop by the historic (and newly revived ) queer bar for DRIP, a dance party that fuses acid house with trippy visuals and drag. Tickets are $15, but you can get in for $10 if you show up in “insect attire.” 

Pink Triangle Commemoration Ceremony, June 8, 10:30 a.m.: 

San Franciscans can’t terraform Mars, but they can turn the Twin Peaks hillside into a beacon of Pride. As part of the annual tradition, volunteers will unfurl a massive canvas pink triangle at the top of the hill, which will remain visible all month. 

Cumbia sin miedo : queer and trans cumbia night at El Rio, June 8, 9 p.m.:

Celebrate Latinx pride at one of SF’s most inclusive queer bars as DJs spin experimental takes on the cumbia genre. Early arrivals can get dance lessons. Tickets are $5 at the door.

Coming out storytime at Manny’s, June 9, 5 - 6:30 p.m.: 

Sip on evening cappuccinos and swap coming out stories in a warm, cozy environment.

Reparations at Oasis, June 14, 10 p.m.:

The LGBTQ+ nightclub’s all-Black drag night, Reparations, celebrates its four-year anniversary with drag hero Jaida Essence Hall. Tickets are $15 to $40.

Pride Family Festival at the Jewish Community Center, June 15, 3 - 5 p.m.:

Celebrate Pride at the Jewish Community Center with dance, crafts, a kid-friendly drag show and an indoor parade.

All We Need is Love with the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus and SF Symphony, June 18, 7:30 p.m.:

Feeling fancy? Join the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus and the San Francisco Symphony for All We Need is Love, a celebration of love songs on one of the city’s most formal stages. Tickets range from $20 to $139.

Monthly queer bowling night at Mission Bowling Club, June 19, 6 - 10 p.m.: 

If you have time to spare for a spare (or strike) hit the monthly queer bowling night at Mission Bowling Club. Between splits and gutterballs, you’ll be treated to DJ sets and drag. Bowling is free, but a $10 ticket guarantees entry.

LGBTQ walking tour of North Beach, June 22, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.: 

Long before the Castro became a magnet for the city’s LGBTQ+ community, queer-friendly nightlife had firm roots in the city’s red light district, in present-day North Beach. This walking tour, which roves the neighborhood from the San Francisco Historical Society to the site of a long-shuttered lesbian dinner club, traces lesser-known history. Tickets are $28 to $35.

San Francisco Trans March , 6 p.m.:  

On Friday of Pride weekend, the San Francisco Trans March will trek from Dolores Park to Turk and Taylor, the site of Compton’s Cafeteria Riot. Unlike the Pride Parade, anyone can join the march, although organizers ask participants to follow their guidelines.

QUEERBAIT with Azealia Banks at 1015 Folsom, June 28 at 10 p.m.: 

SF promoters Fake and Gay and Squish are bringing Azealia Banks to 1015 Folsom. Bring your earplugs! Tickets are $65, plus fees.

Juanita MORE! Pride party, 20th anniversary at 620 Jones, June 30, 12-7 p.m.:

This year, San Francisco’s most famous Pride party is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Join Juanita MORE! for a seven-hour bash. Tickets go on sale on May 17th.

Pride Parade, June 30, 10:30 a.m.: 

You know this one already! San Francisco’s annual Pride parade is the big event of the month. Expect bright colors , big floats and bigger personalities .