This lovely island off the Southern Indian shores has a reputation for being one of the best tropical island paradises for supreme beauty, tranquillity and calm.

Colombo

Gangaramaya Temple
Prominent Buddhist Temple The Gangaramaya Temple is one of Colombo’s most significant and iconic religious sites. The temple complex features a mix of modern architecture and traditional design, with an eclectic collection of Buddha statues, relics, and artefacts from various countries. It’s also a key centre for Buddhist learning and cultural events.

Galle Face Green
Seaside Promenade Galle Face Green is a popular urban park that stretches along the coast, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

National Museum of Colombo
Cultural and Historical Museum The National Museum of Colombo is the largest and oldest museum in Sri Lanka. It houses an extensive collection of artefacts that reflect the country’s rich history and cultural heritage, including ancient statues, royal regalia, traditional masks, and colonial-era relics.

Independence Memorial Hall
Historic Monument Located in Independence Square, this monument was built to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule in 1948. The hall is surrounded by a beautiful park and features a statue of the first Prime Minister, D. S. Senanayake. The site is significant for its historical importance and is often used for national celebrations and events.

Beira Lake
Urban Lake Beira Lake is a tranquil body of water in the heart of Colombo, surrounded by the city’s bustling commercial areas. The Seema Malaka Temple, designed by the renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, is located on the lake and offers a peaceful retreat for meditation and reflection. The lake is also popular for boating and leisurely strolls along its banks.

Viharamahadevi Park
Largest Public Park Viharamahadevi Park, formerly known as Victoria Park, is Colombo’s largest and oldest public park. It features wide lawns, shaded walkways, and a variety of flowering trees and fountains. The park is home to the Colombo Public Library, the Colombo Town Hall, and several statues, including one of Queen Victoria.

Pettah Market
Vibrant Bazaar Pettah Market is one of the busiest and most colourful markets in Colombo. It’s a chaotic yet fascinating place where you can find everything from fresh produce, textiles, and electronics to spices, jewellery, and street food. Exploring Pettah is a sensory experience and offers insight into local life.

Old Dutch Hospital
Historic Building The Old Dutch Hospital, one of the oldest buildings in Colombo, has been transformed into a stylish shopping and dining precinct. The beautifully restored colonial-era complex now houses cafes, restaurants, and boutique stores, offering a blend of history and modern luxury.

Mount Lavinia Beach
Popular Beach Just a short drive from central Colombo, Mount Lavinia Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists to unwind by the sea. The beach offers golden sands, gentle waves, and a range of beachfront restaurants and bars. The historic Mount Lavinia Hotel, with its colonial charm, overlooks the beach.

Colombo Fort and Lighthouse
Historic District Colombo Fort is the city’s historic district, once a fortified area during the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial periods. Today, it’s a commercial hub with a mix of old and new buildings. The Colombo Lighthouse, located nearby, is an iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the harbour and the city.

St. Anthony’s Shrine
Catholic Church St. Anthony’s Shrine is a revered Catholic church in Colombo, known for its miraculous history and beautiful architecture. It attracts devotees from various religious backgrounds and is a significant place of worship in the city.

Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque)
Striking Architecture Located in the Pettah district, the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Colombo. It’s striking red-and-white striped design makes it a standout building, and it’s a key religious site for the city’s Muslim community.

Colombo Lotus Tower
Modern Landmark Colombo Lotus Tower is the tallest structure in South Asia and a new symbol of modern Colombo. The tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Indian Ocean from its observation deck. It also features restaurants, a telecommunications museum, and a conference centre.

Wolvendaal Church
Dutch Reformed Church Built in 1749, Wolvendaal Church is one of the oldest Protestant churches in Sri Lanka. It features Dutch colonial architecture and houses many historical artefacts, including old tombstones and memorial tablets.

Kandy
East of Colombo is Kandy a city situated in the hills and in the Kandy plateau. This is an area of tropical plantations.