Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Hiring a car
Local costs

Colombo travel guide

Colombo Tourism | Colombo Guide

You're Going to Love Colombo

Colombo is the largest city and capital of Sri Lanka, offering a heady blend of tropical environment, colonial villas, and modern cityscape. It dates from 800 AD and there is history to explore around every corner. You can wander through the many temples and sample some delicious food while soaking up the atmosphere.

Article

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Colombo

1. The Sunsets

The sunsets in Colombo are truly breathtaking. Head to Galle Face Green Promenade to watch this spectacular show as you wander among food stalls, street vendors, and picnicking locals.

2. The Nightlife

The beachfront of Mount Lavinia is a popular area for nightclubs and bars with visitors and locals alike. The party goes on until dawn.

3. Learn about Sri Lankan History

The Colombo National Museum and Dutch Period Museum tell the story of the city's fascinating history, right back to Arab rule in the 900 AD.

4. The Food

The city is a great place for street food, with stalls everywhere selling little packets of vegetables and rice. Bakers sell vegetable, fish, and egg rotis and the seafood restaurants are excellent.

5. Elephants

The elephant show at the National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka takes place every day at 5:15 pm and is a must-see Colombo event.

1. The Sunsets

The sunsets in Colombo are truly breathtaking. Head to Galle Face Green Promenade to watch this spectacular show as you wander among food stalls, street vendors, and picnicking locals.

2. The Nightlife

The beachfront of Mount Lavinia is a popular area for nightclubs and bars with visitors and locals alike. The party goes on until dawn.

3. Learn about Sri Lankan History

The Colombo National Museum and Dutch Period Museum tell the story of the city's fascinating history, right back to Arab rule in the 900 AD.

4. The Food

The city is a great place for street food, with stalls everywhere selling little packets of vegetables and rice. Bakers sell vegetable, fish, and egg rotis and the seafood restaurants are excellent.

5. Elephants

The elephant show at the National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka takes place every day at 5:15 pm and is a must-see Colombo event.

What to do in Colombo

1. Viharamahadevi Park: Have a Relaxing Picnic

Between the plethora of fountains, playgrounds, and carefully manicured lawns this park attracts hundreds of visitors every day. The center of the park features a large gold Buddha Statue, paying homage to Sri Lanka's spiritual roots. On special occasions, elephants can be seen wandering through the courtyard waiting for their turn in the spotlight of the next cultural ceremony. The park is surrounded by restaurants and cafes, complimenting the calm and peaceful atmosphere of Viharamahdevi Park.

2. Gangaramaya Temple: Tap into the Spiritual Energy

It's hard to miss an opportunity to pay homage to the spiritual guru Buddha while traveling in Colombo. The Gangaramaya Temple is a healthy blend of modern architecture and true cultural spirit with an overarching message of meditation, self-reflection, and material non-attachment. But the Gangaramaya Temple is more than just a passive spiritual experience. Here you can get involved in one of many service projects aimed at helping the local community and strengthening interpersonal bonds in Colombo. Some of these opportunities open to the public include vocational training, "Tree Bank" ecological conservation efforts, and a Center of Indigenous Medicine.

3. Galle Face Green: Join the Throngs of Locals Along the Coastline

Located along Colombo's eastern coastline, Galle Face Green has been used as a cultural gathering point and urban park since it's inception by the Dutch in 1859. The narrow strip of beach is ripe with sunbathers, swimmers, and sports enthusiasts who travel outside of the city center for some fresh air and community spirit. There are also many food carts selling Sri Lankan specialties like Isso vadei, a lentil paddy topped with spicy prawns. If you're one for large open spaces and meandering promenades, it's hard to beat a day out at Galle Face Green when traveling around Colombo!

4. Mount Lavinia Beach: Enjoy the Best Beach in Colombo

With the humid tropical temperatures in Sri Lanka, finding a place where you can cool down and relax is a real treat. Just outside of the city center is the Mount Lavinia Beach, famous with locals and tourists alike for it's close proximity to downtown and many modern amenities. The area is known for its "golden mile" of beaches, clubs, and restaurants catering to the energetic urban lifestyle of Colombo. Travel tip: the beach can get very crowded on the weekends, however the Mount Lavinia Hotel offers a private beach for a small fee which also includes access to the pool and a buffet meal.

5. Dutch Hospital: Buy Some Souvenirs at the...Hospital?

Hospital, police station, apothecary - this building has served many different purposes over the years. The Dutch Hospital is considered one of the oldest building in Colombo's history of Dutch-occupation with an estimated date of construction leading back to the 17th century. In 2011, this historic building was converted once more into a shopping center with dining opportunities, retaining it's original architecture while also modernizing it's purpose to suit the local community's needs.

1. Viharamahadevi Park: Have a Relaxing Picnic

Between the plethora of fountains, playgrounds, and carefully manicured lawns this park attracts hundreds of visitors every day. The center of the park features a large gold Buddha Statue, paying homage to Sri Lanka's spiritual roots. On special occasions, elephants can be seen wandering through the courtyard waiting for their turn in the spotlight of the next cultural ceremony. The park is surrounded by restaurants and cafes, complimenting the calm and peaceful atmosphere of Viharamahdevi Park.

2. Gangaramaya Temple: Tap into the Spiritual Energy

It's hard to miss an opportunity to pay homage to the spiritual guru Buddha while traveling in Colombo. The Gangaramaya Temple is a healthy blend of modern architecture and true cultural spirit with an overarching message of meditation, self-reflection, and material non-attachment. But the Gangaramaya Temple is more than just a passive spiritual experience. Here you can get involved in one of many service projects aimed at helping the local community and strengthening interpersonal bonds in Colombo. Some of these opportunities open to the public include vocational training, "Tree Bank" ecological conservation efforts, and a Center of Indigenous Medicine.

3. Galle Face Green: Join the Throngs of Locals Along the Coastline

Located along Colombo's eastern coastline, Galle Face Green has been used as a cultural gathering point and urban park since it's inception by the Dutch in 1859. The narrow strip of beach is ripe with sunbathers, swimmers, and sports enthusiasts who travel outside of the city center for some fresh air and community spirit. There are also many food carts selling Sri Lankan specialties like Isso vadei, a lentil paddy topped with spicy prawns. If you're one for large open spaces and meandering promenades, it's hard to beat a day out at Galle Face Green when traveling around Colombo!

4. Mount Lavinia Beach: Enjoy the Best Beach in Colombo

With the humid tropical temperatures in Sri Lanka, finding a place where you can cool down and relax is a real treat. Just outside of the city center is the Mount Lavinia Beach, famous with locals and tourists alike for it's close proximity to downtown and many modern amenities. The area is known for its "golden mile" of beaches, clubs, and restaurants catering to the energetic urban lifestyle of Colombo. Travel tip: the beach can get very crowded on the weekends, however the Mount Lavinia Hotel offers a private beach for a small fee which also includes access to the pool and a buffet meal.

5. Dutch Hospital: Buy Some Souvenirs at the...Hospital?

Hospital, police station, apothecary - this building has served many different purposes over the years. The Dutch Hospital is considered one of the oldest building in Colombo's history of Dutch-occupation with an estimated date of construction leading back to the 17th century. In 2011, this historic building was converted once more into a shopping center with dining opportunities, retaining it's original architecture while also modernizing it's purpose to suit the local community's needs.

1. Viharamahadevi Park: Have a Relaxing Picnic

Between the plethora of fountains, playgrounds, and carefully manicured lawns this park attracts hundreds of visitors every day. The center of the park features a large gold Buddha Statue, paying homage to Sri Lanka's spiritual roots. On special occasions, elephants can be seen wandering through the courtyard waiting for their turn in the spotlight of the next cultural ceremony. The park is surrounded by restaurants and cafes, complimenting the calm and peaceful atmosphere of Viharamahdevi Park.

2. Gangaramaya Temple: Tap into the Spiritual Energy

It's hard to miss an opportunity to pay homage to the spiritual guru Buddha while traveling in Colombo. The Gangaramaya Temple is a healthy blend of modern architecture and true cultural spirit with an overarching message of meditation, self-reflection, and material non-attachment. But the Gangaramaya Temple is more than just a passive spiritual experience. Here you can get involved in one of many service projects aimed at helping the local community and strengthening interpersonal bonds in Colombo. Some of these opportunities open to the public include vocational training, "Tree Bank" ecological conservation efforts, and a Center of Indigenous Medicine.

3. Galle Face Green: Join the Throngs of Locals Along the Coastline

Located along Colombo's eastern coastline, Galle Face Green has been used as a cultural gathering point and urban park since it's inception by the Dutch in 1859. The narrow strip of beach is ripe with sunbathers, swimmers, and sports enthusiasts who travel outside of the city center for some fresh air and community spirit. There are also many food carts selling Sri Lankan specialties like Isso vadei, a lentil paddy topped with spicy prawns. If you're one for large open spaces and meandering promenades, it's hard to beat a day out at Galle Face Green when traveling around Colombo!

4. Mount Lavinia Beach: Enjoy the Best Beach in Colombo

With the humid tropical temperatures in Sri Lanka, finding a place where you can cool down and relax is a real treat. Just outside of the city center is the Mount Lavinia Beach, famous with locals and tourists alike for it's close proximity to downtown and many modern amenities. The area is known for its "golden mile" of beaches, clubs, and restaurants catering to the energetic urban lifestyle of Colombo. Travel tip: the beach can get very crowded on the weekends, however the Mount Lavinia Hotel offers a private beach for a small fee which also includes access to the pool and a buffet meal.

5. Dutch Hospital: Buy Some Souvenirs at the...Hospital?

Hospital, police station, apothecary - this building has served many different purposes over the years. The Dutch Hospital is considered one of the oldest building in Colombo's history of Dutch-occupation with an estimated date of construction leading back to the 17th century. In 2011, this historic building was converted once more into a shopping center with dining opportunities, retaining it's original architecture while also modernizing it's purpose to suit the local community's needs.

Where to Eat in Colombo

Try a 'lunch packet' of rice and vegetables from one of the street stalls from around Rs120. Raja Bojun is a good place to try local dishes, with an excellent Sri Lankan buffet costing Rs1,800.

When to visit Colombo

Colombo in November
Estimated hotel price
$18
1 night at 3-star hotel
Colombo in November
Estimated hotel price
$18
1 night at 3-star hotel

Colombo has a tropical climate and is warm to hot throughout the year. Monsoon season is June to September, which is best avoided.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Colombo

Plane

Colombo's main airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), 22 miles north of the city at Katunayake. A taxi will take you into the city in around 30 minutes for a fare of Rs3,000, while the bus will cost just Rs110.

Train

There are infrequent trains to other major Sri Lankan cities. A fare to Katunayake costs Rs30.

Car

Driving in Sri Lanka is not recommended. Roads are in poor repair and often crowded with livestock and pedestrians.

Bus

Buses are the principal transport network in Sri Lanka and services are frequent. Fares from neighboring cities are as low as Rs100.

Plane

Colombo's main airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), 22 miles north of the city at Katunayake. A taxi will take you into the city in around 30 minutes for a fare of Rs3,000, while the bus will cost just Rs110.

Train

There are infrequent trains to other major Sri Lankan cities. A fare to Katunayake costs Rs30.

Car

Driving in Sri Lanka is not recommended. Roads are in poor repair and often crowded with livestock and pedestrians.

Bus

Buses are the principal transport network in Sri Lanka and services are frequent. Fares from neighboring cities are as low as Rs100.

Airports near Colombo

CMBColombo Bandaranaike Intl
DWOColombo Diyawanna Oya Seaplane Base
NUFHatton Castlereigh Reservoir

Airlines serving Colombo

Lufthansa
Good (7,188 reviews)
KLM
Good (1,365 reviews)
British Airways
Good (7,065 reviews)
SWISS
Good (1,647 reviews)
Turkish Airlines
Good (3,876 reviews)
Iberia
Good (2,802 reviews)
Air France
Good (1,470 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (3,595 reviews)
Emirates
Excellent (3,274 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (9,632 reviews)
Scandinavian Airlines
Good (1,410 reviews)
Alaska Airlines
Excellent (10,295 reviews)
Finnair
Good (1,298 reviews)
Etihad Airways
Good (1,221 reviews)
Singapore Airlines
Excellent (1,315 reviews)
Cathay Pacific
Good (909 reviews)
ITA Airways
Good (996 reviews)
Ethiopian Air
Good (785 reviews)
JetBlue
Good (2,922 reviews)
Malaysia Airlines
Good (263 reviews)
Show more

Where to stay in Colombo

Mount Lavinia - this is Colombo's main tourist area, with great beaches and lots of bars and restaurants. It has great nightlife and lots of accommodation options.

Popular Neighborhoods in Colombo

Kollupitiya - this is an upscale neighborhood with a good choice of restaurants and some of the city's best hotels.

Bambalapitiya - Bambalapitiya is a bustling suburb. It has lots of eateries and is home to the Majestic City mall. There are also casinos and cinemas.

Kollupitiya - this is an upscale neighborhood with a good choice of restaurants and some of the city's best hotels.
Bambalapitiya - Bambalapitiya is a bustling suburb. It has lots of eateries and is home to the Majestic City mall. There are also casinos and cinemas.

Where to stay in popular areas of Colombo

Most booked hotels in Colombo

See all
Sentido Heritance Negombo
5 stars
Excellent (8.9, Excellent reviews)
$165+
View
Galle Face Hotel
5 stars
Excellent (8.5, Excellent reviews)
$130+
View
The Kingsbury Colombo
5 stars
Excellent (8.4, Excellent reviews)
$152+
View
Jetwing Blue
5 stars
Excellent (8.1, Excellent reviews)
$173+
View
Camelot Beach Hotel
3 stars
Good (7.9, Good reviews)
$190+
View
Jetwing Sea
4 stars
Good (7.7, Good reviews)
$105+
View

How to Get Around Colombo

Public Transportation

The local bus network is good but it's best to find out which number you require before your journey. Fares are Rs100 or less.

Taxi

The traditional local taxi is the three-wheeler tuk-tuk. The initial fare is Rs50 and then you pay around Rs75 per mile. Standard taxis are available but are more expensive and slower in the busy traffic.

Car

Driving in Colombo is not for the faint-hearted and probably best left to the local bus and tuk-tuk drivers. If you do decide to drive, local rental companies include Malkey Rent A Car and prices start at Rs1,400.

Public Transportation

The local bus network is good but it's best to find out which number you require before your journey. Fares are Rs100 or less.

Taxi

The traditional local taxi is the three-wheeler tuk-tuk. The initial fare is Rs50 and then you pay around Rs75 per mile. Standard taxis are available but are more expensive and slower in the busy traffic.

Car

Driving in Colombo is not for the faint-hearted and probably best left to the local bus and tuk-tuk drivers. If you do decide to drive, local rental companies include Malkey Rent A Car and prices start at Rs1,400.

Find car hire in Colombo

The Cost of Living in Colombo

Shopping Streets

Major malls include Liberty Plaza and Majestic City, while Odel is a good department store. The Pettah Market is the place to negotiate for all manner of goods.

Groceries and Other

A quart of milk costs around Rs185 and a dozen eggs Rs200. Keells Super markets are dotted throughout town.

Cheap meal
$2.78
A pair of jeans
$80.43
Single public transport ticket
$0.20
Cappuccino
$3.93

Everything you need to know for your stay in Colombo

Other popular cities in Sri Lanka

Galle

Colombo Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Colombo city guide for the best Colombo travel tips. To help you organise your Colombo trip ideas, this Colombo visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.