If you are a travel freak, you must know that Colombo is the gateway to Sri Lanka even though it is the prime city of this country. The official capital Sri Jayawardenepura Korte also belongs to the urban area of Colombo. Therefore many people reckon Colombo as the capital of Sri Lanka. The city is mainly famous for its colonial heritage and other attractions. The town includes several buildings from the colonial era, and most of the museums were even used by the colonial masters. From Beira Lake to Galle Face Green, there are so many attractions here in this city. Today, in this post, we will discuss the ten best things that you can do in Colombo.
The 10 BEST Things to Do in Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Offer Your Prayings at Gangaramaya Temple
- Explore The National Museum
- Try Playing Golf at the Royal Colombo Golf Club
- Go Hiking at Viharamahadevi Park
- Try Luck at Casino
- Experience Thrilling Rides at Leisure World Water Park
- Sightseeing Tour of Colombo in Air Plane
- Try Open Deck Sightseeing
- Swim or Party at Mount Lavinia Beach
- Enjoy the Cirque Lanka cultural show.
1. Offer Your Prayings at Gangaramaya Temple
In Colombo, even across Sri Lanka, this temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples. It is a notable instance of historical importance. When you enter the main Sanctorum, you will be genuinely amazed by witnessing the colossal Buddha figure. Besides, the miniature wall paintings are unique, and these pictures represent many stories of Buddhism. The idol of Lord Buddha depicts characteristic brilliance and serenity. The entire architecture makes the temple more worthy of visiting. Inside the temple premises also, you can see a museum that holds the architecture belonging to Myanmar, India, Thailand, and China.
Timings- 5:30 am to 10 pm.
2. Explore The National Museum
If you are confused about what to do in Colombo, you can explore The National Museum. While you are in Colombo, it is a must thing to do. The National Museum is one of the most famous cultural institutions. You will be welcomed by a laughing Buddha when you enter the museum. This smiling Buddha belongs to the 9th century. You can see galleries that collect artifacts, busts, pallets, swords, and relics in the museum. Also, here you can see other belongings from the colonial era. The best part is that you can see a cafeteria on the museum premises where you can enjoy your favorite cuppa. The overall relaxing ambiance will surely captivate you.
Timings- 9 am to 5 pm.
3. Try Playing Golf at the Royal Colombo Golf Club
If you are a sports lover, this destination is apt for you. Playing golf at the Royal Colombo Golf Club is one of the most luxurious activities in Colombo. This golf club is a site of colonial heritage in this country, and the British built this golf club for sports enthusiasts. The Royal Colombo Golf Club was established in 1880, and it is the oldest golf club in this country. Surely here you can make some new friends. The open convivial atmosphere of this golf club will surely draw you towards a small gathering or a dinner plan.
Timings: Club House opens from 6 am to pm, and the admin office opens from 8 am to 5 pm.
4. Go Hiking at Viharamahadevi Park
The locals call it the ‘garden city of the east. It is one of the famous spots in Sri Lanka. It is the oldest park in Colombo city. Previously this park was called Victoria Park after the name of Queen Victoria. This place has historical significance due to several historical events at this park. The paved pathways and the decorated turf look amazing and draw every visitor’s attention. Also, this destination is perfect for a morning walk as well.
Timings: 6 am to 8 pm.
5. Try Luck at Casino
If you are looking for some exciting activities in Colombo, you can surely try your luck at the casino. Indeed, it will be an adrenaline-charged activity for you. Here you can enjoy live music performances, and DJs and Sri Lankan artists perform at the casino. Surely this activity will boost your energy. When you visit any casino, don’t miss the chance to try the gourmet seafood they serve. Some popular casinos in Colombo are MGM Colombo, Stardust Casino, Bally’s Casino, etc.
Timings- The casinos remain open 24*7.
6. Experience Thrilling Rides at Leisure World Water Park
If you plan your Colombo trip with your family, you must explore the Leisure World Water Park. Here, you can experience several thrilling rides with your family members. Surely after exploring this water park, you will realize that it will be one of the best experiences you have in Colombo. You will see so many water slides and exciting activities in this water park. Indeed, you will have a blast with your family or friends. In this park, you will see many rides, pools, and other activities for adults. Kiddies Pool, Lazy River, Aqua Trail, and Boomerang Slide are some popular rides in this water park.
Timings- 9 am to 5 pm.
7. Sightseeing Tour of Colombo in Air Plane
For travel lovers, Sri Lanka is the perfect destination. In this country, you can explore its utmost natural beauty. You will get the opportunity of sightseeing by the Cinnamon Air Scenic Flights. Here you will get a flying session for 20 minutes. Indeed, it will be a blissful experience to view the Indian Ocean, the busy towns, and verdant hill ranges from the top. This flying trip starts from Water’s Edge at Colombo.
Timings: 1 pm to 5 pm.
8. Try Open Deck Sightseeing
When you are in Colombo, you must try open deck sightseeing. The sight from the open deck is truly amazing. Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority provides the open deck sightseeing transport in collaboration with Every Silva Holidays Private Limited. Here you will get three open deck tours: Heritage of Colombo, Glimpse of Colombo, and Colombo at Night.
Timings- Glimpse of Colombo (4 pm to 6: 30 pm) from Monday-Friday. On weekends Heritage of Colombo (8:30 am to 12 pm) and Colombo at Night (4:30 pm to 7: 30 pm) are available.
9. Swim or Party at Mount Lavinia Beach
Mount Lavinia Beach is the main swimming beach of Colombo. This destination is perfect for partying. If you want to party hard, surely you can head to this place. If you want to go to the beach for swimming purposes, avoid the weekends and on weekends the beach becomes too crowded.
Timings– 24*7 hours.
10. Enjoy the Cirque Lanka cultural show
This cultural show is held at the southeast corner of Viharamahadevi park. Viharamahadevi Open Air Theatre hosts an excellent cultural show. Up to 20 local performers perform at this show. Here you can see wild acrobats, traditional music, summersaults, and fire. The entire show is excellent. We can assure you that this cultural show is the perfect way to end your evening.
Conclusion
Overall we can say that Colombo is a city of heritage, natural beauty, and amusement. Undoubtedly here you won’t get bored for a single moment. You can plan the Colombo trip with your partner, family, or friends any time of the year. So book your tickets soon, explore the ten best things, and have a blast holiday.
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