SRI LANKA: 6 PLACES TO SEE IN COLOMBO

Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka and is full of skyscrapers, temples for all religions and about five million tuk tuk.

In Sri Lanka’s capital I would recommend staying two full days to give you time to explore, see how the locals live and see the nightlife.

In case you don’t have much time in Colombo, here are the spots you shouldn’t miss.

Sri Lanka: Six must-see places in Colombo

Galle Face

Galle Face is a very large green park in the heart of the city in front of the sea and next to huge skyscrapers. The Colombo Lotus Tower can be seen from the park, which you can read about below.

In the park you can walk around, buy ice cream and various kinds of street food from the canteens around, fly a kite – like many we saw around us, but also enjoy the sea.

I liked the fact that many families, groups and couples were laying out mats or towels and having picnics, listening to music, playing games and generally having a carefree time even very late at night and being safe. You can’t even imagine that in any neighborhood in Athens.

Independence Memorial Hall

Independence Memorial Hall is a national monument in Sri Lanka built to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule by restoring full governmental responsibility to a legislature elected by the Ceylonese on 4 February 1948.

Pettah Market

At Pettah Market you can see how the locals shop and do your own shopping.

You can find everything from clothes and toys, to kitchenware, tools and things for the home. If you want to buy something, make sure you bargain for a better price.

Jami Ul Alfar Mosque

An impressive mosque that you’ll find in a central location in Colombo. Tourists are not allowed to enter through the main entrance, only Muslims who want to pray enter from there.

The mosque stands out even though it is surrounded by dozens of buildings, as it is an imposing building with a crimson colour and special details. 

Gangaramaya Temple

One of the most impressive and famous temples in Sri Lanka is definitely the Buddhist temple, Gangaramaya Temple. 

The temple is surrounded by water and is full of golden Buddha statues. The view from there is magnificent. 

Be careful: To enter the temple you must take off your shoes and have your shoulders and knees covered. This applies to all Buddhist temples.

Colombo Lotus Tower

One of the most beautiful buildings in Colombo – and Sri Lanka in general – is the huge Colombo Lotus Tower.

At the top of the tower is the lotus, the national flower of Sri Lanka, and if you visit the tower at night you will see the flower changing colours. It is definitely worth a visit. 

Bonus tip. When in Colombo take a tuk tuk to walk around the city is a great experience, especially at night. Don’t forget to bargain for a better price!

What you need to know about Sri Lanka

• In Sri Lanka the time is 3:30 hours ahead of Greece.
• Mobile data from Greece does not work in Sri Lanka, so I suggest you buy an eSim to get mobile data and call minutes. You can buy an eSim card from Airalo app. Use the code ELENI4690 for 3€ off.
• In Sri Lanka it is too hot! We went in February and it averaged 33-35 degrees with humidity hovering around 60-90% every day.
• Make sure to bring Euros or Rupees (Sri Lankan currency) as many places only accept cash. And to do bargaining you also need cash.
• In Sri Lanka, drivers drive like crazy. The steering wheel is on the right and the roads are upside down, just like in England. So if you’re thinking of renting a car think twice. I personally don’t recommend it though.
• The best way to get around is by tuk tuk, local buses or a guide who has a schedule set up and takes you to a different place every day. 

If you want to see more of my trip to Sri Lanka, visit my Instagram profile.