Colombo, Sri Lanka is a vibrant, bustling city that is often referred to as the “Garden City of the East”. Located on the west coast of the island nation, Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka with a population of about two million. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and stunning natural beauty.
Colombo is a great place to visit for its world-class restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. The city also offers plenty of historic and cultural attractions, ranging from colonial architecture to ancient temples. Visitors can explore the city’s charming streets, visit its famous markets, or take in its breathtaking sunsets.
The city has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from mid-20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit) in the winter to mid-30s Celsius (mid-90s Fahrenheit) in the summer. The monsoon season runs from May to October and it is best to avoid visiting during this time.
No matter what your interests are, Colombo is sure to have something to offer you. From its culinary delights to its stunning beaches, this vibrant city is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Colombo City Centre: The city centre of Colombo is a bustling area with many tourist attractions, restaurants, hotels, markets, and shops. It is the main business hub of the country.
2. Kollupitiya: Kollupitiya is a vibrant and stylish area located in the heart of the city. It is known for its local and international restaurants, luxury hotels, and upscale shops and boutiques.
3. Mount Lavinia: This beachfront area is popular among tourists due to its majestic views of the Indian Ocean, and proximity to Colombo. It offers a variety of resorts, restaurants, and shops.
4. Wellawatte: Wellawatte is a residential area located near the beach. It is known for its colonial-style architecture and low-key atmosphere.
5. Bambalapitiya: Bambalapitiya is a vibrant and trendy neighbourhood in Colombo. It is known for its lively nightlife, and local restaurants and cafes.
1. Gangaramaya Temple - Located in the heart of Colombo, this is a Buddhist temple complex that features stunning architecture, shrines, and a museum dedicated to Buddhism.
2. Galle Face Green - This is a large open space on the coast of Colombo that is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Here you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, fly a kite, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Indian Ocean.
3. National Museum - This museum is home to a large collection of artifacts from Sri Lanka's history, including paintings, sculptures, and clothing.
4. Colombo Zoo - This is a great place to visit for families, as it offers an opportunity to see a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, and leopards.
5. Independence Square - This is a beautiful park located in the center of Colombo that is home to a variety of monuments, monuments that commemorate the country's independence from Britain in 1948.
1. Kottu: Kottu is a popular Sri Lankan street food made with chopped roti, veggies, eggs, and meat. It's served with a spicy sauce and is usually eaten for breakfast or lunch.
2. Hoppers: Hoppers are a type of bowl-shaped pancake made with rice flour and coconut milk. They are usually served with a variety of accompaniments like curries, chutneys, and sambols.
3. Lamprais: Lamprais is a Dutch-influenced dish made with rice, meat, and vegetables wrapped in a banana leaf and then steamed.
4. Kukul Mas Curry: Kukul Mas Curry is a traditional Sri Lankan curry made with chicken and spices. It's usually served with rice and is a popular dish in Colombo.
5. String Hoppers: String hoppers are steamed vermicelli noodles made from rice flour and served with a variety of accompaniments like curries, chutneys, and sambols.