Colombo
The island's commercial capital - markets, colonial quarters and an ocean promenade
Colombo is the largest city and commercial capital of Sri Lanka, and the administrative centre of the Western Province. It is where Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim and Burgher communities have lived alongside each other for centuries, and the architecture reads that history directly - Portuguese, Dutch and British layers under a skyline that has changed dramatically in the past decade. Most visitors pass through rather than stay, but a half day here is well spent.
What to see
Galle Face Green is a half-kilometre ocean-front lawn where the whole city turns out at sunset for kite flying and street food - isso wade (prawn fritters) is the thing to order. Gangaramaya Temple is an unusually eclectic working temple, its museum crammed with donated objects from across Asia.
Pettah is the old bazaar district: streets organised by trade, extremely busy, and the most interesting hour in the city if you like markets. The Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar) in its middle is one of the most photographed buildings in Sri Lanka.
The Lotus Tower, at 350 metres the tallest structure in South Asia, has an observation deck. The Old Dutch Hospital, restored into a courtyard of restaurants and shops, is the easiest place to eat well in the colonial quarter.
Colombo as a base
Bandaranaike International Airport is about 35 km north, closer to Negombo than to Colombo. If you land late or leave early, Negombo is the more sensible overnight stop - it is 10-15 minutes from the terminal against 45-60 minutes into the city.
Colombo works well as a half-day stop at the start or end of a tour rather than as a base for exploring - almost everything else on the island is at least three hours away.
Highlights of Colombo
- Galle Face Green at sunset
- Gangaramaya Temple and its museum
- Pettah bazaar and the Red Mosque
- Old Dutch Hospital shopping precinct
- Lotus Tower observation deck
Tours that visit Colombo
Cultural Heritage Explorer - 4 Days
Experience the ancient wonders and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka on this compact 4-day tour covering Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, and Kandy.
Complete Sri Lanka Explorer - 10 Days
Experience the best of Sri Lanka from ancient cities to wildlife safaris and hill country adventures on this comprehensive 10-day tour.
Ultimate Sri Lanka Discovery - 20 Days
Experience the most comprehensive Sri Lankan journey covering ancient cities, pristine beaches, wildlife, Adam's Peak pilgrimage, and cultural highlights.
Colombo - frequently asked questions
Bandaranaike International Airport is approximately 35 km north of Colombo, or 45-60 minutes by road using the expressway. Negombo is much closer at 10-15 minutes.
A half day is worthwhile for Pettah market, Gangaramaya Temple and Galle Face Green. It is not a base for touring - almost every other destination is three or more hours away.
Negombo, if your flight lands late or departs early - it is 10-15 minutes from the terminal versus 45-60 minutes into Colombo, and has a beach. Choose Colombo if you want the city itself, restaurants and shopping.