Colombo

Colombo (Sinhala: කොළඹ, Tamil: கொழும்பு) is the largest city and commercial capital of Sri Lanka. Former capital of the nation, Colombo is still perceived by many as the capital of the nation and is located just beyond the suburb of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, the official capital.

Due to it being on a strategic route in the Indian Ocean, Colombo hosts one of the busiest ports in South Asia, and was known to ancient traders 2,000 years ago. Today, the city is the central point of the country's activities and is home to the majority of country's restaurants and entertainment venues. Just like another typical South Asian big city, Colombo is congested, noisy, busy, and vibrant with a mixture of modern life and colonial buildings. It is the financial centre of the island and a popular tourist destination.

Colombo is the commercial and financial capital of Sri Lanka after the administrative capital was moved to Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, a suburb east of the city. "Colombo" could refer to either the city proper, or to Greater Colombo that includes the areas of Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte and Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia.

For the best weather, visit during the north-east monsoon season, including the driest months December to March. There's also a shorter dryer period in July and August.

• Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka, Lankamatha Road, Ragama suburb of Colombo (From Ragama Railway Station 2 km NE or bus to stop 'National Basilika Ave'. A Roman Catholic church with basilica status. The church is home to the venerated statue of Our Lady of Lanka.
• St Luke's Anglican Church, Borella district of Colombo-8. The church plays an important role within the history of the Church Missionary Society on the island.
• St Michael and All Angels Anglican Church, Polwatte (159, St Michael’s Road, Colombo 3) (Cameron Pl corner. East 100 m of Kollupitiya Jumma Mosque. It was dedicated on the 29 September 1887 and is a landmark in Kollupitiya, a suburb of Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. A magnificent building of stone, mortar and wood.
• St Andrew's Scots Kirk church, No. 73, Galle Road, Colombo 3 (Close to High Commission of India, Colombo. It was founded in the late 19th century, and prospered during the colonial and post-colonial periods, it was a centre for the Scots element in Colombo, the capital city of what was then Ceylon.
• St Lucia's Cathedral, St Benedict's Street and St Lucia Street, Kotahena (in the north east of Colombo. North 200 m of Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium. The seat of the archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Colombo in Sri Lanka.
• St Paul's Church (1853), Galle Rd, Milagiriya district (Dr Lester James Peries Mawatha Street corner. Take bus to stop 'Milagiriya'. It is one of the oldest churches in Sri Lanka. Built by the Portuguese as a Roman Catholic church, and was known as Nossa Senhora dos Milagres
• Buddha Jayanthi Chaithya stupa, Colombo Harbour. A Buddhist shrine, built with reinforced concrete.
• Gangaramaya Temple, 61, Sri Jinarathana Road, Colombo 2 (Hunupitiya Lake Rd corner, +94 11 2 435169. One of the most important temples in Colombo. The temple's architecture is an eclectic mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian and Chinese styles.
• Sri Bala Selva Vinayagar. Hindu temple in Colombo 10. Devoted to Shiva and Ganesh.
• Sri Muthumariamman. Hindu temple in Colombo 13
• Shiva Subramania Swami. Temple on Slave Island
• Sri Ponnambalam-Vaneswaram temple. In Koch-chikade, 3 km north of Fort.
• Kalani Raja Maha Viharaya.. Located about 9 km away from Colombo, the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. The temple had been built more than 2,000 years ago and contains images of reclining and preaching Buddha along with frescoes depicting incidents from his life.
• Memm Harnafi. Mosque founded by C.W.W. Kannangara Mawatha.
• Church of St Anthony. Situated beside the sea where Sea Street and St Anthony’s Mawatha meet.
• Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, Second Cross Street in Pettah. This historic mosque is a popular tourist site in the city. Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque was built in 1909 by the Pettah Muslim community to fulfill their required five-times-daily prayer and Jummah on Fridays. It is one of the oldest mosques in Colombo.
• Victoria Masonic Temple, Galle Face, Colombo 03. It is the meeting place for the Masonic Lodges. It was built in 1901 during British rule and designed by E. Skinner, an associate of the Royal Institute of British Architects, and built by the Colombo Commercial Company. The building was built in neo-Georgian style mixed with elements of Eastern architecture.
• Wolvendaal church, 363, Galle Road, Colombo 06. One of the oldest churches built during the Dutch era in 1749. The interior is decorated with Dutch furniture with the wooden carved pews, chairs, pulpit and lecterns.

Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka, Lankamatha Road, Ragama suburb of Colombo (From Ragama Railway Station 2 km NE or bus to stop 'National Basilika Ave'. A Roman Catholic church with basilica status. The church is home to the venerated statue of Our Lady of Lanka.

St Luke's Anglican Church, Borella district of Colombo-8. The church plays an important role within the history of the Church Missionary Society on the island.

St Michael and All Angels Anglican Church, Polwatte (159, St Michael’s Road, Colombo 3) (Cameron Pl corner. East 100 m of Kollupitiya Jumma Mosque. It was dedicated on the 29 September 1887 and is a landmark in Kollupitiya, a suburb of Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. A magnificent building of stone, mortar and wood.

St Andrew's Scots Kirk church, No. 73, Galle Road, Colombo 3 (Close to High Commission of India, Colombo. It was founded in the late 19th century, and prospered during the colonial and post-colonial periods, it was a centre for the Scots element in Colombo, the capital city of what was then Ceylon.

St Lucia's Cathedral, St Benedict's Street and St Lucia Street, Kotahena (in the north east of Colombo. North 200 m of Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium. The seat of the archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Colombo in Sri Lanka.

St Paul's Church (1853), Galle Rd, Milagiriya district (Dr Lester James Peries Mawatha Street corner. Take bus to stop 'Milagiriya'. It is one of the oldest churches in Sri Lanka. Built by the Portuguese as a Roman Catholic church, and was known as Nossa Senhora dos Milagres

Buddha Jayanthi Chaithya stupa, Colombo Harbour. A Buddhist shrine, built with reinforced concrete.

Gangaramaya Temple, 61, Sri Jinarathana Road, Colombo 2 (Hunupitiya Lake Rd corner, +94 11 2 435169. One of the most important temples in Colombo. The temple's architecture is an eclectic mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian and Chinese styles.

Sri Bala Selva Vinayagar. Hindu temple in Colombo 10. Devoted to Shiva and Ganesh.

Sri Muthumariamman. Hindu temple in Colombo 13

Shiva Subramania Swami. Temple on Slave Island

Sri Ponnambalam-Vaneswaram temple. In Koch-chikade, 3 km north of Fort.

Kalani Raja Maha Viharaya.. Located about 9 km away from Colombo, the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. The temple had been built more than 2,000 years ago and contains images of reclining and preaching Buddha along with frescoes depicting incidents from his life.

Memm Harnafi. Mosque founded by C.W.W. Kannangara Mawatha.

Church of St Anthony. Situated beside the sea where Sea Street and St Anthony’s Mawatha meet.

Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, Second Cross Street in Pettah. This historic mosque is a popular tourist site in the city. Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque was built in 1909 by the Pettah Muslim community to fulfill their required five-times-daily prayer and Jummah on Fridays. It is one of the oldest mosques in Colombo.

Victoria Masonic Temple, Galle Face, Colombo 03. It is the meeting place for the Masonic Lodges. It was built in 1901 during British rule and designed by E. Skinner, an associate of the Royal Institute of British Architects, and built by the Colombo Commercial Company. The building was built in neo-Georgian style mixed with elements of Eastern architecture.

Wolvendaal church, 363, Galle Road, Colombo 06. One of the oldest churches built during the Dutch era in 1749. The interior is decorated with Dutch furniture with the wooden carved pews, chairs, pulpit and lecterns.

• The National Museum of Colombo, Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo 7, +94 11 2 695366. Sa-Th 09:00-17:00. Department of National Museums. Also known as the Sri Lanka National Museum, it is the largest museum in Colombo. Among its exhibits, it contains regalia of the 17th century Kandyan Kings. Child Rs 300, adult Rs 500 (2013).
• The Natural History Museum, Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha, Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo 7, +94 11 269-1399. Sa-Th 09:00-17:00. Closed all public holidays. This museum features Sri Lanka's floral and fauna in dioramas. Child Rs 150, adult Rs 300.
• The Dutch Period Museum, 95 Prince Street, Colombo 01, +94 11 244-8466. Sat-Thu.: 09:00-17:00. Nice but very small museum documenting Dutch colonial rule in Sri Lanka. Houses Dutch-inspired artifacts. Child Rs 300, adult: Rs 500 (2013).
• Independence Memorial Hall, Independence Square (formerly Torrington Square) (Cinnamon Gardens. 09:00-17:00. is a national monument in Sri Lanka built for commemoration of the independence of Sri Lanka from the British rule with the establishment of Dominion of Ceylon on 4 February 1948. It also houses the Independence Memorial Museum. Child Rs 150, adult Rs 300 (2013).
• Central Bank Currency Museum, 58, Sri Jayawardhanapura Mawatha, Rajagiriya. M-F 08:30 to 16:00 except public and bank holidays. Established on 20 April 1982 at the Central Bank Head Office in Colombo Fort. The museum is open to the general public. - The Central Bank Currency Museum traces the history of the usage of coins and notes in Sri Lanka since 3 BC and has on display a large number of ancient coins and notes which were used in the country dating back to 3 BC. Foreign coins and notes received from other Central Banks are also on display at the museum. free.

The National Museum of Colombo, Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo 7, +94 11 2 695366. Sa-Th 09:00-17:00. Department of National Museums. Also known as the Sri Lanka National Museum, it is the largest museum in Colombo. Among its exhibits, it contains regalia of the 17th century Kandyan Kings. Child Rs 300, adult Rs 500 (2013).

The Natural History Museum, Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha, Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo 7, +94 11 269-1399. Sa-Th 09:00-17:00. Closed all public holidays. This museum features Sri Lanka's floral and fauna in dioramas. Child Rs 150, adult Rs 300.

The Dutch Period Museum, 95 Prince Street, Colombo 01, +94 11 244-8466. Sat-Thu.: 09:00-17:00. Nice but very small museum documenting Dutch colonial rule in Sri Lanka. Houses Dutch-inspired artifacts. Child Rs 300, adult: Rs 500 (2013).

Independence Memorial Hall, Independence Square (formerly Torrington Square) (Cinnamon Gardens. 09:00-17:00. is a national monument in Sri Lanka built for commemoration of the independence of Sri Lanka from the British rule with the establishment of Dominion of Ceylon on 4 February 1948. It also houses the Independence Memorial Museum. Child Rs 150, adult Rs 300 (2013).

Central Bank Currency Museum, 58, Sri Jayawardhanapura Mawatha, Rajagiriya. M-F 08:30 to 16:00 except public and bank holidays. Established on 20 April 1982 at the Central Bank Head Office in Colombo Fort. The museum is open to the general public. - The Central Bank Currency Museum traces the history of the usage of coins and notes in Sri Lanka since 3 BC and has on display a large number of ancient coins and notes which were used in the country dating back to 3 BC. Foreign coins and notes received from other Central Banks are also on display at the museum. free.

• The Sapumal Foundation, 32/4 Barnes Pl, +94 11 269-5731. Colombo 7. The Sapumal Foundation was once home to the late Harry Pieris. Visitors are able to see his studio and art materials that have been left undisturbed over the years. This gallery also contains 200 paintings that follow the development of Sri Lankan art. Special art classes are also available at the gallery.
• The Lionel Wendt Memorial Art Centre, 18 Guilford Crescent, Colombo 7, +94 11 269-5794. M-F 09:00-13:00 and 14:00-16:00. The Art Centre has exhibitions, art shows and stage events. Visitors also able to purchase various antiques as well as paintings and crafts by contemporary Sri Lankan artists.

The Sapumal Foundation, 32/4 Barnes Pl, +94 11 269-5731. Colombo 7. The Sapumal Foundation was once home to the late Harry Pieris. Visitors are able to see his studio and art materials that have been left undisturbed over the years. This gallery also contains 200 paintings that follow the development of Sri Lankan art. Special art classes are also available at the gallery.

The Lionel Wendt Memorial Art Centre, 18 Guilford Crescent, Colombo 7, +94 11 269-5794. M-F 09:00-13:00 and 14:00-16:00. The Art Centre has exhibitions, art shows and stage events. Visitors also able to purchase various antiques as well as paintings and crafts by contemporary Sri Lankan artists.

• Alfred House, Thurstan Rd.
• Clare House.
• India House. The official residence in Colombo for the Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka. Built in 1926-27 for the Imperial Bank of India and taken over by the Government of India in 1956. It is a colonial style villa/bungalow, with large gardens located along Thurstan Road. It is guarded by personnel from the Border Security Force.
• Jefferson House. The ambassadorial residence in Colombo for the Ambassador of the United States in Sri Lanka. It was built in 1914 in the Cinnamon Gardens a suburb of Colombo.
• Lakshmigiri Mansion. A bungalow at 102, Thurstan Road in Colombo.
• Modera House. A large bungalow. A 19th century stately home, located in Mutwal north of Colombo. Now it is part of the De La Salle College.
• Morven Mansion.
• Saravasti Mansion.
• Storm Lodge., 142 Galle Rd, Colombo-03. A mansion, owned by the Colombo Swimming Club.
• Rock House Colonial era Mansion.
• Sirimathipaya Mansion.
• The Lighthouse.. A large bungalow. Owned by the Sri Lankan Government and houses the Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute of International Relations and Strategic Studies. Located in the Cinnamon Gardens a suburb of Colombo, it was built by D. Peiris.
• Whist Bungalow. A large bungalow. A 19th century stately home modelled on Neoclassical style, located in Mutwal north of Colombo on the cost where the Kelani River used to meet the Indian Ocean. It is now used as a reception hall for weddings.
• Winyatts Mansion.

Alfred House, Thurstan Rd.

Clare House.

India House. The official residence in Colombo for the Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka. Built in 1926-27 for the Imperial Bank of India and taken over by the Government of India in 1956. It is a colonial style villa/bungalow, with large gardens located along Thurstan Road. It is guarded by personnel from the Border Security Force.

Jefferson House. The ambassadorial residence in Colombo for the Ambassador of the United States in Sri Lanka. It was built in 1914 in the Cinnamon Gardens a suburb of Colombo.

Lakshmigiri Mansion. A bungalow at 102, Thurstan Road in Colombo.

Modera House. A large bungalow. A 19th century stately home, located in Mutwal north of Colombo. Now it is part of the De La Salle College.

Morven Mansion.

Saravasti Mansion.

Storm Lodge., 142 Galle Rd, Colombo-03. A mansion, owned by the Colombo Swimming Club.

Rock House Colonial era Mansion.

Sirimathipaya Mansion.

The Lighthouse.. A large bungalow. Owned by the Sri Lankan Government and houses the Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute of International Relations and Strategic Studies. Located in the Cinnamon Gardens a suburb of Colombo, it was built by D. Peiris.

Whist Bungalow. A large bungalow. A 19th century stately home modelled on Neoclassical style, located in Mutwal north of Colombo on the cost where the Kelani River used to meet the Indian Ocean. It is now used as a reception hall for weddings.

Winyatts Mansion.

• Galle Face Green Promenade, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Visit at sundown for a spectacular view. The ½km long promenade stretches between Galle Road and the Indian Ocean; it tends to attract children, teenagers, vendors, lovers, kite flyers, merrymakers, and families. Usually on Saturday and Sunday evenings, the land is filled with day-trippers, food vendors, and people picnicking which make it very crowded. It is also the only largest open space in the city. Free.
• Colombo Zoological Gardens, Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Dehiwala (By Bus: From Colombo port, No. 101 stops at Dehiwala junction, and get the Bus No. 176 or 118. - By Train: get to Dehiwala station which near station to Colombo zoo and get Bus No. 176 or 118.. daily 08:30–18:00. Colombo's zoo has a wide variety of animals, birds, and reptiles from all over the world. See lion show, every day 16:00 – 16:15; elephant show, every day 16:30 – 16:55. For overseas visitors: adult - Rs 2000, child - Rs 1000, video cameras - Rs 500. Other fees: elephant ride, adult - Rs 200, child - Rs 100; pony ride for children under 12 - Rs 25.
• Casa Serena Art Gallery, 122 Havelock Roa, Colombo 5, +94 11 2587440. Tu-Sa 10:00-18:00 and 12:00-13:00 to 18:00. The gallery is a purpose built space, designed to exhibit a diverse array of art, photography, sculpture, video installations and craft. It focuses on contemporary and traditional arts and features the work of local and international artists.
• Viharamahadevi Park, Cinnamon Gardens. It is the largest, oldest and most colourful park situated in the heart of Colombo, just opposite the colonial style Town Hall building.
• Attidiya Bird Sanctuary. A beautiful marshland. The wet land is rich with natural biodiversity and is a resting place for many types of birds. The vegetation of this wetland is dominated by sedge and grasses including Rhyuchospora rubra and Panicum repens. Around 43 species of waterfowls live in the area. Most common among them are Indian Shag (Phalaerocorox fuscicollis), the Blue breasted Banded Rail (Rallus striatus) etc. If you are an enthusiastic bird watcher or an eco friend, then it is worthwhile to spend sometimes in the Attidiya bird sanctuary during one of your leisurely evenings during your stay in Colombo.
• Sri Lanka Planetarium, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7. Established in 1965. English shows on the last Saturday of the month at 14:00.
• Gordon Gardens. About 16,000 m². The Gardens have an amazing variety of trees.
• Colombo Racecourse, Cinnamon Gardens, Philip Gunewardena Mawatha, Colombo 07. In 2012 it was redeveloped as the Colombo Racecourse Sports Complex to become the first International Rugby Union ground in Sri Lanka to host all the national rugby union sides home macthes.
• Ceylonese Rugby & Football Club Grounds, Malalasekara Mawatha, Colombo 07.
• Royal College Sports Complex, 10, Sri Lanka Foundation Mawatha, Off Independence Avenue, Colombo 07.
• Royal Colombo Golf Club, 223, Model Farm Road, Colombo 08.
• Sugathadasa Stadium, Arthur de Silva Mawatha or Prince of Wales Ave, Colombo 14.
• Colombo Cricket Club Ground (CCCG; Sinhala: කොළඹ ක්‍රිකට් සමාජ ක්‍රීඩාංගනය, Tamil: கொலோம்போ கிரிக்கெட் கிளப் கிரௌண்ட்), Maitland Crescent.
• Nelum Pokuna Theatre, +94 11 2 669024. Performing Arts Theater

Galle Face Green Promenade, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Visit at sundown for a spectacular view. The ½km long promenade stretches between Galle Road and the Indian Ocean; it tends to attract children, teenagers, vendors, lovers, kite flyers, merrymakers, and families. Usually on Saturday and Sunday evenings, the land is filled with day-trippers, food vendors, and people picnicking which make it very crowded. It is also the only largest open space in the city. Free.

Colombo Zoological Gardens, Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Dehiwala (By Bus: From Colombo port, No. 101 stops at Dehiwala junction, and get the Bus No. 176 or 118. - By Train: get to Dehiwala station which near station to Colombo zoo and get Bus No. 176 or 118.. daily 08:30–18:00. Colombo's zoo has a wide variety of animals, birds, and reptiles from all over the world. See lion show, every day 16:00 – 16:15; elephant show, every day 16:30 – 16:55. For overseas visitors: adult - Rs 2000, child - Rs 1000, video cameras - Rs 500. Other fees: elephant ride, adult - Rs 200, child - Rs 100; pony ride for children under 12 - Rs 25.

Casa Serena Art Gallery, 122 Havelock Roa, Colombo 5, +94 11 2587440. Tu-Sa 10:00-18:00 and 12:00-13:00 to 18:00. The gallery is a purpose built space, designed to exhibit a diverse array of art, photography, sculpture, video installations and craft. It focuses on contemporary and traditional arts and features the work of local and international artists.

Viharamahadevi Park, Cinnamon Gardens. It is the largest, oldest and most colourful park situated in the heart of Colombo, just opposite the colonial style Town Hall building.

Attidiya Bird Sanctuary. A beautiful marshland. The wet land is rich with natural biodiversity and is a resting place for many types of birds. The vegetation of this wetland is dominated by sedge and grasses including Rhyuchospora rubra and Panicum repens. Around 43 species of waterfowls live in the area. Most common among them are Indian Shag (Phalaerocorox fuscicollis), the Blue breasted Banded Rail (Rallus striatus) etc. If you are an enthusiastic bird watcher or an eco friend, then it is worthwhile to spend sometimes in the Attidiya bird sanctuary during one of your leisurely evenings during your stay in Colombo.

Sri Lanka Planetarium, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7. Established in 1965. English shows on the last Saturday of the month at 14:00.

Gordon Gardens. About 16,000 m². The Gardens have an amazing variety of trees.

Colombo Racecourse, Cinnamon Gardens, Philip Gunewardena Mawatha, Colombo 07. In 2012 it was redeveloped as the Colombo Racecourse Sports Complex to become the first International Rugby Union ground in Sri Lanka to host all the national rugby union sides home macthes.

Ceylonese Rugby & Football Club Grounds, Malalasekara Mawatha, Colombo 07.

Royal College Sports Complex, 10, Sri Lanka Foundation Mawatha, Off Independence Avenue, Colombo 07.

Royal Colombo Golf Club, 223, Model Farm Road, Colombo 08.

Sugathadasa Stadium, Arthur de Silva Mawatha or Prince of Wales Ave, Colombo 14.

Colombo Cricket Club Ground (CCCG; Sinhala: කොළඹ ක්‍රිකට් සමාජ ක්‍රීඩාංගනය, Tamil: கொலோம்போ கிரிக்கெட் கிளப் கிரௌண்ட்), Maitland Crescent.

Nelum Pokuna Theatre, +94 11 2 669024. Performing Arts Theater

• Barefoot, 706 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Kollupitiya, +94 11 2589305. M-Sa 10:00-19:00, Su 11:00-17:00. This handicraft shop has a wide range of good quality souvenirs and handmade items: clothes, bags and children toys, from some of the most beautifully-coloured fabric you've ever seen. While the biggest outlet is at Galle Road, there is smaller outlets at the Dutch Hospital and 41 Pedlar Street.
• Crescat Boulevard, 89 Galle Rd. Colombo 3, Kollupitiya. An up-market shopping mall. Though it is fairly small, it contains a food court on the basement floor.
• Lakmedura, 113 Dharmapala Rd. Colombo 07, Cinnamon Gardens.
• Lakpahana, 14 Reid Ave. Colombo 07, Cinnamon Gardens. A non-profit organization run by the craftsman association of Sri Lanka with assistance from the government. Offers all handicrafts and gemstone jewellery. Unique metalware, wood carvings, silver jewellery, batik, textile products and other crafts.
• Liberty Plaza, RA de Mel Mawatha, Colombo 3, Kollupitiya. Similar to Majestic City but smaller. You can find various items such as clothing, CDs and DVDs.
• Majestic City. In Kollupitiya on Galle Road has a wide variety of clothing outlets- including a sub-branch of Odel- at very good prices, as well as various electrical goods and toy shops. It's pleasantly air-conditioned and includes a food court on the ground floor.
• Odel, No 5, Alexandra Place, Colombo 7, Cinnamon Gardens. A stylish department store, with its very own Delifrance outlet, clothing, houseware, sporting goods, books and movies, as well as Delight – for sweet indulgences from chocolates to exotic nuts.
• Paradise Road, 213, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 7, Cinnamon Gardens, +94 11 268 6043. 09:00-19:00. A shop with a small café in a British colonial style building where antiques, home décor items and art can be viewed or purchased.
• The Pettah Market. Fruits to clothes to electronics at wholesale prices. You have to bargain extensively and it is recommended that you take a local you trust along with you. Even if you don't buy anything, Pettah, or Colombo 11 is an experience in itself being a very typical, loud and crowded oriental market place full of all sorts of odds, ends and junk. Each street in the market has its own speciality, for example, in 1st Cross Street you can find electrical items, 2nd Cross Street has jewellery and so on. In the Pettah Market area, some street vendors actively ask passers-by, foreigners and locals to view products they are selling though polite refusal is generally accepted.
• Casa Serena boutique, 122 Havelock Road, Colombo 5, +94 11 2587440. Tu-Sa 10:00-18:00 and 12:00-13:00 to 18:00. The boutique showcases a wide range of traditional and modern creations to enhance the art of living. Some are practical, some are useful, and some are just beautiful souvenirs.

Barefoot, 706 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Kollupitiya, +94 11 2589305. M-Sa 10:00-19:00, Su 11:00-17:00. This handicraft shop has a wide range of good quality souvenirs and handmade items: clothes, bags and children toys, from some of the most beautifully-coloured fabric you've ever seen. While the biggest outlet is at Galle Road, there is smaller outlets at the Dutch Hospital and 41 Pedlar Street.

Crescat Boulevard, 89 Galle Rd. Colombo 3, Kollupitiya. An up-market shopping mall. Though it is fairly small, it contains a food court on the basement floor.

Lakmedura, 113 Dharmapala Rd. Colombo 07, Cinnamon Gardens.

Lakpahana, 14 Reid Ave. Colombo 07, Cinnamon Gardens. A non-profit organization run by the craftsman association of Sri Lanka with assistance from the government. Offers all handicrafts and gemstone jewellery. Unique metalware, wood carvings, silver jewellery, batik, textile products and other crafts.

Liberty Plaza, RA de Mel Mawatha, Colombo 3, Kollupitiya. Similar to Majestic City but smaller. You can find various items such as clothing, CDs and DVDs.

Majestic City. In Kollupitiya on Galle Road has a wide variety of clothing outlets- including a sub-branch of Odel- at very good prices, as well as various electrical goods and toy shops. It's pleasantly air-conditioned and includes a food court on the ground floor.

Odel, No 5, Alexandra Place, Colombo 7, Cinnamon Gardens. A stylish department store, with its very own Delifrance outlet, clothing, houseware, sporting goods, books and movies, as well as Delight – for sweet indulgences from chocolates to exotic nuts.

Paradise Road, 213, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 7, Cinnamon Gardens, +94 11 268 6043. 09:00-19:00. A shop with a small café in a British colonial style building where antiques, home décor items and art can be viewed or purchased.

The Pettah Market. Fruits to clothes to electronics at wholesale prices. You have to bargain extensively and it is recommended that you take a local you trust along with you. Even if you don't buy anything, Pettah, or Colombo 11 is an experience in itself being a very typical, loud and crowded oriental market place full of all sorts of odds, ends and junk. Each street in the market has its own speciality, for example, in 1st Cross Street you can find electrical items, 2nd Cross Street has jewellery and so on. In the Pettah Market area, some street vendors actively ask passers-by, foreigners and locals to view products they are selling though polite refusal is generally accepted.

Casa Serena boutique, 122 Havelock Road, Colombo 5, +94 11 2587440. Tu-Sa 10:00-18:00 and 12:00-13:00 to 18:00. The boutique showcases a wide range of traditional and modern creations to enhance the art of living. Some are practical, some are useful, and some are just beautiful souvenirs.

• Hansa Sri Lanka Speciality Coffee, 24 Fife Road, Colombo 5 (off Thimbirigasyaya Road,, +94 773116579. 09:00-20:00. An exceptional gourmet coffee, made from Sri Lanka coffee beans. The coffee can be purchased at several shops including supermarkets and is served in hotels and cafes throughout the island. Their retail outlet is at 24 Fife Road, Colombo 5, where they also serve several coffee drinks. Telephone: 0773116579.

• Available everywhere are small bakeries selling rotis (either flat or folded into triangles filled with egg, vegetable or fish), hoppers (bowl shaped pancakes made with coconut milk), and other "short eats" (bread based snacks or fried foods). The price of individual items range from Rs 50-100.
• A cup of coffee and some goodies for lunch at D'Cafe at No. 15A, Cambridge Place, Colombo 7.
• Buy a "lunch packet" from street stands practically anywhere in the city. Typically, it will be a filling meal of rice and vegetables for about Rs 180.
• The New Yarl Eat House is located in Station Road, Wellawatte, just off the Galle Road, on the sea side. It serves traditional Jaffna style rice and curries with excellent value for money crabs. A lunch for one including a full crab costs around Rs 400

• The Cricket Club Cafe, 34 Queens Rd. Kollupitiya, Colombo 03. This cafe is a must for any cricket lover. The walls are covered in autographed memorabilia and photos with sports (usually cricket) being screened on all the TVs scattered throughout the rooms. They serve authentic Aussie cuisine and a wide variety of drinks. The bar is named after Donald Bradman.
• The Gallery Cafe, 2 Alfred House Rd. Off Alfred House Gardens, Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. Wonderful atmosphere in beautiful building - designed by famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Large food menu featuring many international dishes, decadent desserts and extensive cocktail menu.
• The Lagoon, The Cinnamon Grand Hotel, 77 Galle Road, Kollupitiya, Colombo 03, +94 11 243-7437. 12:00-14:30, 19:00-00:30. This restaurant focuses primarily on seafood with colourful Sri Lankan flavours. The friendly, professional staff create an enjoyable dining experience. Full meal: Rs 4,000 per person.
• Mango Tree, 82 Dharmapala Mawatha, Kollupitiya, Colombo 03, +94 11 537-9790, +94 11 537-9791. daily 12:00–15:00; 19:00–23:00. One of the finest restaurants in the city. North Indian Cuisine, full of innovative dishes. Service is occasionally slow. Full meal: Rs 1,000 per person.
• The Palmyrah Restaurant, 328 Galle Rd. Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. Serves excellent Sri Lankan dishes and has an international menu.
• Roadhouse Cafe, 335 Galle Rd. Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. Serves Sri Lankan and Western food. Meals range from Rs 180 - 380. The food is excellent, but the service is a little slow. Try the mango milkshakes or one of their speciality coffees.
• 168 Seafood Palace. Just off Galle Road, near Hotel Renuka, Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. Serves excellent Chinese food and seafood dishes. Prices start at Rs 250. but some prices depend on weight (e.g. crabs). The service is very good.
• UK Urban Kitchen, 69 Hyde Park Corner, Union Place, Colombo 2 (Arpico Super Centre, +94 11 7219169. M-Th 10:00-22:00, F-Su 10:00-13:00. Serves Western, Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines at relatively reasonable prices. Also specializes in wood-fired pizzas and coffee. Next to Arpico supermarket.
• Thalis Restaurant, No 155 Park Road, Colombo-05., +94 112 507 788. Mon-Sun 11:00-23:00. Vegetarian restaurant, serves South Indian cuisine. Meal 400-700 Rs.

The Cricket Club Cafe, 34 Queens Rd. Kollupitiya, Colombo 03. This cafe is a must for any cricket lover. The walls are covered in autographed memorabilia and photos with sports (usually cricket) being screened on all the TVs scattered throughout the rooms. They serve authentic Aussie cuisine and a wide variety of drinks. The bar is named after Donald Bradman.

The Gallery Cafe, 2 Alfred House Rd. Off Alfred House Gardens, Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. Wonderful atmosphere in beautiful building - designed by famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Large food menu featuring many international dishes, decadent desserts and extensive cocktail menu.

The Lagoon, The Cinnamon Grand Hotel, 77 Galle Road, Kollupitiya, Colombo 03, +94 11 243-7437. 12:00-14:30, 19:00-00:30. This restaurant focuses primarily on seafood with colourful Sri Lankan flavours. The friendly, professional staff create an enjoyable dining experience. Full meal: Rs 4,000 per person.

Mango Tree, 82 Dharmapala Mawatha, Kollupitiya, Colombo 03, +94 11 537-9790, +94 11 537-9791. daily 12:00–15:00; 19:00–23:00. One of the finest restaurants in the city. North Indian Cuisine, full of innovative dishes. Service is occasionally slow. Full meal: Rs 1,000 per person.

The Palmyrah Restaurant, 328 Galle Rd. Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. Serves excellent Sri Lankan dishes and has an international menu.

Roadhouse Cafe, 335 Galle Rd. Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. Serves Sri Lankan and Western food. Meals range from Rs 180 - 380. The food is excellent, but the service is a little slow. Try the mango milkshakes or one of their speciality coffees.

168 Seafood Palace. Just off Galle Road, near Hotel Renuka, Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. Serves excellent Chinese food and seafood dishes. Prices start at Rs 250. but some prices depend on weight (e.g. crabs). The service is very good.

UK Urban Kitchen, 69 Hyde Park Corner, Union Place, Colombo 2 (Arpico Super Centre, +94 11 7219169. M-Th 10:00-22:00, F-Su 10:00-13:00. Serves Western, Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines at relatively reasonable prices. Also specializes in wood-fired pizzas and coffee. Next to Arpico supermarket.

Thalis Restaurant, No 155 Park Road, Colombo-05., +94 112 507 788. Mon-Sun 11:00-23:00. Vegetarian restaurant, serves South Indian cuisine. Meal 400-700 Rs.

• Nihonbashi Main Restaurant, 11 Galle Face Terrace, Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. There are three Nihonbashi outlets in Colombo. A Sushi Bar at ODEL and an outlet at the Hilton Colombo Residence are the other two. The main restaurant is an airy and spacious restaurant with a blend of modern and traditional in design consisting of 8 private dining rooms also a dine-in wine room. Nihonbashi is owned and run by Tokyo-born Dharshan Munidasa, a self-taught chef.
• Spoons. Colombo Hilton, Echelon Square, Fort, Colombo 1. Is the flagship restaurant of the Hilton Hotel. It has a show kitchen, and an impressive collection of wine and chocolates.
• Ginza Hohsen. Colombo Hilton, Echelon Square, Fort, Colombo 1. This is one of the Japanese restaurants in Colombo. They have a sushi bar, the tatami rooms and ever teppanyaki.
• Chesa Swiss, 3 Deal Pl. Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. Representing the best of Swiss cuisine, this restaurant has all your favourites from fresh garden snails to Chateaubriand for two to steak Café de Paris style. The wine list is exclusively Swiss.
• The London Grill. Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Galle Face, Colombo 3. As the name suggests this restaurant is very British. It probably has the best ambiance of all, and the food is just great.
• California Grill. Galadari Hotel, Fort, Colombo 01. This is a fine dining restaurant on the rooftop level of the hotel. It offers panoramic views of the Galle Face marina. The food, mostly US-style grills and premium seafood, is excellent too.
• Royal Thai, 115 Sir Chittampalam A. Gardiner Mawatha,Slave Island, Colombo 02. Located at the Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel (refurbished and rebranded September 2009), is an authentic Thai restaurant hosting the usual favourites, such as Tom Yam and Chicken Pandan leaves.
• The Ministry of Crab. Old Dutch Hospital, Colombo Fort. Located in the historic Dutch Hospital, The Ministry of Crab serves the best crabs in Sri Lanka. Crabs are priced by the size and a kilo of crab costs around Rs. 6500. They also serve their house speciality sweet tea with soda. One of the most expensive restaurants in Colombo, but it is definitely worth it.

Nihonbashi Main Restaurant, 11 Galle Face Terrace, Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. There are three Nihonbashi outlets in Colombo. A Sushi Bar at ODEL and an outlet at the Hilton Colombo Residence are the other two. The main restaurant is an airy and spacious restaurant with a blend of modern and traditional in design consisting of 8 private dining rooms also a dine-in wine room. Nihonbashi is owned and run by Tokyo-born Dharshan Munidasa, a self-taught chef.

Spoons. Colombo Hilton, Echelon Square, Fort, Colombo 1. Is the flagship restaurant of the Hilton Hotel. It has a show kitchen, and an impressive collection of wine and chocolates.

Ginza Hohsen. Colombo Hilton, Echelon Square, Fort, Colombo 1. This is one of the Japanese restaurants in Colombo. They have a sushi bar, the tatami rooms and ever teppanyaki.

Chesa Swiss, 3 Deal Pl. Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. Representing the best of Swiss cuisine, this restaurant has all your favourites from fresh garden snails to Chateaubriand for two to steak Café de Paris style. The wine list is exclusively Swiss.

The London Grill. Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Galle Face, Colombo 3. As the name suggests this restaurant is very British. It probably has the best ambiance of all, and the food is just great.

California Grill. Galadari Hotel, Fort, Colombo 01. This is a fine dining restaurant on the rooftop level of the hotel. It offers panoramic views of the Galle Face marina. The food, mostly US-style grills and premium seafood, is excellent too.

Royal Thai, 115 Sir Chittampalam A. Gardiner Mawatha,Slave Island, Colombo 02. Located at the Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel (refurbished and rebranded September 2009), is an authentic Thai restaurant hosting the usual favourites, such as Tom Yam and Chicken Pandan leaves.

The Ministry of Crab. Old Dutch Hospital, Colombo Fort. Located in the historic Dutch Hospital, The Ministry of Crab serves the best crabs in Sri Lanka. Crabs are priced by the size and a kilo of crab costs around Rs. 6500. They also serve their house speciality sweet tea with soda. One of the most expensive restaurants in Colombo, but it is definitely worth it.

Hansa Sri Lanka Speciality Coffee, 24 Fife Road, Colombo 5 (off Thimbirigasyaya Road,, +94 773116579. 09:00-20:00. An exceptional gourmet coffee, made from Sri Lanka coffee beans. The coffee can be purchased at several shops including supermarkets and is served in hotels and cafes throughout the island. Their retail outlet is at 24 Fife Road, Colombo 5, where they also serve several coffee drinks. Telephone: 0773116579.

• Thembili තැබිලි (Orange Coconut juice) is safe, since they cut it open in front of you (uncontaminated).
• Spring water with SLS certification are safe to drink.

Mount Lavinia is a great place to be. The beach and the friendly people always draw visitors there and keep them for a while. Unlike the South of the island, Mount Lavinia is about 20 minutes away from the city and entertains a good deal of nightlife. Along the beach are a variety of restaurants that serve liquor alcohol have great food catered to suit every budget. The variety of the beach spots themselves are interesting, from nice little coves for a quiet chat a and a drink to well lit, busy places with dance floors, music courtesy of a live DJ and well stocked bars. Try Jo Jo's, a quiet little place where they serve pretty decent food and drink and has a nice homey feel to it. The owner Mr Jo, Jo, (Mr Nihal) better know, is a nice person. Buba, on the other side of the Mount Lavinia Hotel which divides the public beach is also popular.

Mount Lavinia also serves as the gay district of Colombo. Although not home to any gay bars, it is a very gay friendly town and always plays host to Colombo's Gay Pride week in June. Do not be surprised if some bars have the rainbow flag flying on the beach.

For those night owl's Colombo's nightlife is on par with most other Asian destinations and feature a number of nightlife establishments, that offer decent music and drinks, served in a pleasant atmosphere. The major hot spots as of February 2013 include the Amuseum and My Kind of Place at the Taj Samudra, Kama (near the Ramada Hotel), Silk (near independence Square) and R&B on Duplication Road.

Expect the music to range from 80s retro to modern chart toppers as elegant partygoers dance the night away sipping the poison of their choice. Most clubs close around 04:00, R&B perhaps a little longer after.

Popular watering holes include Whitehorse (Nawam Mawatha), Inn on the Green (Galle Face Hotel), Rize Bar (Dharmapala Mawatha), Seven Degrees North (Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel) and Cheers (Cinnamon Grand Hotel)

Most nightclubs may charge admission and smart/casual dress is encouraged with longs/shoes a must.

After a night out, some people will end with a late night snack, try e.g., Hotel de Pilawoos along the Galle Road in Kollupitiya to enjoy a Chicken Roti (chicken and cheese wrapped in a roti) followed by an iced Milo (sweet chocolate and malt flavoured drink)

Thembili තැබිලි (Orange Coconut juice) is safe, since they cut it open in front of you (uncontaminated).

Spring water with SLS certification are safe to drink.

Colombo is like most other South Asian capitals. Although it is not as dangerous as one would think, tourists should be very vigilant. Many first time visitors to Colombo find themselves falling victim to scams and touts; however, seasoned visitors to Sri Lanka are rarely scammed and it is very simple to avoid being a victim of scammers as long as you take precautions such as:

• Being on guard for anybody trying to help you by giving you unsolicited directions or travel advice. Take any advice from taxi and auto drivers with a grain of salt, especially if they tell you the place you want to go to is closed, dangerous, non-existent etc. If you are unsure, check a map.
• Not engaging in business with people who have to actively approach you for business such as Tuk Tuk drivers, street vendors, etc. If people have to approach or make overtures to you for business without you seeking them on your own volition, then they shouldn't be considered for business dealings. Because, you will likely be overcharged, as you have been denied the option of shopping around for the best price.
• If you have been told your hotel is closed or full, give them a call. If you are a first time visitor to Sri Lanka, don't admit it as it will make you a target for the scam artists.

Once you are past the scammers, Colombo is a far more welcoming destination than other South Asian cities. Certainly single women, although not advised to explore every nook and cranny of the city on their own late at night, will not find the pestering attentions of leering men. Sri Lankan women are also very "western" in their dress sense, so it is very normal to wear skirts, tank tops, etc. You may get a few whistles and hellos from bored school boys, but they are more friendly and not meant to be threatening, so just ignore it and they will leave you alone.

The civil war that once raged is now long over, with much development occurring since. The country is now free from terrorism and tourists needn't be afraid of that aspect.

• Seemingly innocuous public displays of affection between lovers such as kissing and/or hugging are not culturally acceptable in Sri Lanka as it is considered to be secluded behaviour (this does not apply to private functions or establishments designated for adults such as nightclubs, casinos and beach parties). Much lenience is given to foreigners and holding hands and public affection between parents and their children is not frowned upon.
• In most buses, it is local etiquette to provide or give up the very front passenger seats to members of the clergy, such as monks or priests if they are present.
• Do not turn your back to (or be alongside) a Buddha statue when within a reasonable distance (observe what others are doing). This includes posing for photos. It's OK to photograph a statue, but all persons should be facing it.
• Public nudity is illegal in Sri Lanka. Nude/topless sunbathing and skinny dipping should be avoided at beaches, except in the few private beach resorts which allow it.

• AustraliaAustralia, 21, Gregory's Rd, Colombo 7, +94 11 246-3200.
• CanadaCanada, 33A, 5th Lane, Colpetty, Colombo -03, +94 11 522-6232.
• ChinaChina, 381-A Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7, +94 11 268-8610.
• France France, 89, Rosmead Place, Colombo 7, +94 11 2639400.
• Germany Germany, 40 Alfred House Avenue, Colombo 3, +94 11 2580431.
• Greece Greece, John Keells Holdings Plc, 130, Glennie St, Colombo 2, +94 11 230-6767.
• India India, 36-38, Galle Road, Colombo 3, +94 11 2327587, +94 11 2422788, +94 11 2421605. Tourist visas for India can be obtained there. The cost of a six-month visa depends on your nationality, and you’ll need to supply two photos. It takes at least five days to process a tourist visa, but only one day if you are a foreign resident in Sri Lanka. Lines tend to be very long. You can also obtain an Indian visa in Kandy at the Assistant High Commission of India (081-222 4563; ahciknd@mailandnews.com; Box 47, 31 Rajapihilla Mawatha). Kandy makes a good alternative to Colombo because it’s not as busy.
• Indonesia Indonesia, 400/50 Sarana Road, Off Budhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7, +94 11 267 43 37.
• Italy Italy, 55, Jawatta Road, Colombo 5, +94 11 2588388.
• Japan Japan, 20, Gregory's Road, Colombo 7, +94 11 2693831.
• Malaysia Malaysia, 33, Bagatalle Road, Colombo 3, +94 11 7557711, +94 11 7557712, +94 11 7557713.
• Maldives Maldives, 25, Melbourne Avenue, Colombo 4, +94 11-551-6302.
• Nepal Nepal, 153, Kynsey Road, Colombo 8., +94 11-268-9656.
• Netherlands The Netherlands, 25, Torrington Avenue, Colombo - 7, +94 11 2510200.
• Norway Norway, 34 Ward Place, Colombo 7, +94 11 2469611.
• Russia Russia, 62, Sir Ernest de Silva Mawatha, Colombo 7, +94 11 2573555, +94 11 2574959.
• Thailand Thailand, 46/46 Nawam Mawatha, 9th Floor, Green lanka Towers, Colombo 2, +94 11 2302500-3.
• United Kingdom United Kingdom, 389 Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo - 7, +94 11 5390639.
• United States United States, 210 Galle Road, Colombo 3, +94 11 249-8500.

AustraliaAustralia, 21, Gregory's Rd, Colombo 7, +94 11 246-3200.

CanadaCanada, 33A, 5th Lane, Colpetty, Colombo -03, +94 11 522-6232.

ChinaChina, 381-A Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7, +94 11 268-8610.

France France, 89, Rosmead Place, Colombo 7, +94 11 2639400.

Germany Germany, 40 Alfred House Avenue, Colombo 3, +94 11 2580431.

Greece Greece, John Keells Holdings Plc, 130, Glennie St, Colombo 2, +94 11 230-6767.

India India, 36-38, Galle Road, Colombo 3, +94 11 2327587, +94 11 2422788, +94 11 2421605. Tourist visas for India can be obtained there. The cost of a six-month visa depends on your nationality, and you’ll need to supply two photos. It takes at least five days to process a tourist visa, but only one day if you are a foreign resident in Sri Lanka. Lines tend to be very long. You can also obtain an Indian visa in [[Kandy]] at the Assistant High Commission of India (081-222 4563; ahciknd@mailandnews.com; Box 47, 31 Rajapihilla Mawatha). Kandy makes a good alternative to Colombo because it’s not as busy.

Indonesia Indonesia, 400/50 Sarana Road, Off Budhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7, +94 11 267 43 37.

Italy Italy, 55, Jawatta Road, Colombo 5, +94 11 2588388.

Japan Japan, 20, Gregory's Road, Colombo 7, +94 11 2693831.

Malaysia Malaysia, 33, Bagatalle Road, Colombo 3, +94 11 7557711, +94 11 7557712, +94 11 7557713.

Maldives Maldives, 25, Melbourne Avenue, Colombo 4, +94 11-551-6302.

Nepal Nepal, 153, Kynsey Road, Colombo 8., +94 11-268-9656.

Netherlands The Netherlands, 25, Torrington Avenue, Colombo - 7, +94 11 2510200.

Norway Norway, 34 Ward Place, Colombo 7, +94 11 2469611.

Russia Russia, 62, Sir Ernest de Silva Mawatha, Colombo 7, +94 11 2573555, +94 11 2574959.

Thailand Thailand, 46/46 Nawam Mawatha, 9th Floor, Green lanka Towers, Colombo 2, +94 11 2302500-3.

United Kingdom United Kingdom, 389 Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo - 7, +94 11 5390639.

United States United States, 210 Galle Road, Colombo 3, +94 11 249-8500.

SIM cards for unlocked phones may be purchased upon arrival at the international airport.

• Delhousie— town at the foot of Adam's Peak which is considered a place of worship and pilgrimage by many religions. The 2,224 metre peak, also known as Sri Pada, is home to a foot imprint on a rock at its summit. Depending on the faith, the foot print has been considered that of Buddha, the god Shiva, St Thomas, and even Adam, after he was expelled from the garden of Eden. The stairway to the top is believed to be one of the longest in the world. After reaching the top, climbers can ring the bell to mark the journey they just made. The panoramic view makes the journey well worth the effort. Reaching Delhousie from Colombo can be an adventure in itself, unless you are lucky enough to find a direct bus. The route is Colombo-Hatton-Maskeliya-Delhousie. The distance is quite short on the map but can take 6–8 hours.
• Kandy, Located 120 kilometres (less than 4 hours away) outside of Colombo, Kandy is a small, tranquil town that holds the sacred tooth of Buddha, a sacred relic of the Buddhist faith. According to the legend, the tooth was taken from the Buddha on his funeral pyre and was smuggled into Sri Lanka hidden in the hair of a princess in the 4th century. The Dalada Maligawa, or Temple of the Tooth, is a main attraction for pilgrimages. Each July and August, the tooth is carried in a procession. Although one cannot see the tooth, the festivities are a sight to see.
• Sigiriya, located 160 kilometres northeast of Colombo, is a very important Buddhist site in Sri Lanka. The remains of the ancient fortress and city date back to 477 AD. Legend has it, King Kasyapa built it in order to protect against attacks from his brother, whom he had stolen the throne from. The only way into the city is through the giant lion's jaws. The site is also famous for its 5th century frescos. Sigiriya is approximately 2–3 hours away from Colombo, and can be reached via train, bus, or car. It is open daily from 08:30 to 18:00. For foreign nationals the entrance fee is 2,000 rupees.
• Negombo

Delhousie— town at the foot of Adam's Peak which is considered a place of worship and pilgrimage by many religions. The 2,224 metre peak, also known as Sri Pada, is home to a foot imprint on a rock at its summit. Depending on the faith, the foot print has been considered that of Buddha, the god Shiva, St Thomas, and even Adam, after he was expelled from the garden of Eden. The stairway to the top is believed to be one of the longest in the world. After reaching the top, climbers can ring the bell to mark the journey they just made. The panoramic view makes the journey well worth the effort. Reaching Delhousie from Colombo can be an adventure in itself, unless you are lucky enough to find a direct bus. The route is Colombo-Hatton-Maskeliya-Delhousie. The distance is quite short on the map but can take 6–8 hours.

[[Kandy]], Located 120 kilometres (less than 4 hours away) outside of Colombo, [[Kandy]] is a small, tranquil town that holds the sacred tooth of Buddha, a sacred relic of the Buddhist faith. According to the legend, the tooth was taken from the Buddha on his funeral pyre and was smuggled into Sri Lanka hidden in the hair of a princess in the 4th century. The Dalada Maligawa, or Temple of the Tooth, is a main attraction for pilgrimages. Each July and August, the tooth is carried in a procession. Although one cannot see the tooth, the festivities are a sight to see.

[[Sigiriya]], located 160 kilometres northeast of Colombo, is a very important Buddhist site in Sri Lanka. The remains of the ancient fortress and city date back to 477 AD. Legend has it, King Kasyapa built it in order to protect against attacks from his brother, whom he had stolen the throne from. The only way into the city is through the giant lion's jaws. The site is also famous for its 5th century frescos. Sigiriya is approximately 2–3 hours away from Colombo, and can be reached via train, bus, or car. It is open daily from 08:30 to 18:00. For foreign nationals the entrance fee is 2,000 rupees.