Colombo Captured A Vibrant Journey Through Time and Culture

Colombo , Sri Lanka

Colombo Captured A Vibrant Journey Through Time and Culture

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About this experience

Embark on “Colombo Captured” a half-day tour to explore the rich tapestry of Colombo’s historical landmarks, cultural sites, and bustling markets. From the architectural elegance of the Old Parliament Building to the serene waters of Beira Lake and the colorful streets of Pettah, this tour offers a snapshot of Colombo’s diverse charms. Visit key religious sites like the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque and Gangaramaya Temple, shop and dine in converted colonial buildings at the Dutch Hospital, and discover the unique Floating Market. Cap off your exploration with a visit to Premadasa Jewellers, a testament to Sri Lanka’s renowned gem trade. This tour is perfect for those looking to experience the best of Colombo’s culture and history, in just half a day.

Please note: The availability and accessibility of attractions may vary based on time of day and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

Available options

Colombo Captured A Vibrant Journey Through Time and Culture

Pickup included

What's included

Professional local tour guide

Transportation

Detailed itinerary

Start with hotel pick-up for a hassle-free experience.

We will pass the Old Parliament Building, a striking example of Neo-Baroque architecture, which now serves as the Presidential Secretariat. (Outside Visit)

Witness Beira Lake, a serene body of water in the heart of Colombo, offering peaceful and picturesque views.(Outside Visit)

Explore the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, one of Colombo’s architectural landmarks. Its striking red and white candy-striped exterior makes it a photogenic site in the Pettah district.

Stop 5

Discover Gangaramaya Temple, a mix of modern architecture and cultural essence. This Buddhist temple complex includes a museum and is an active place of worship.

Wander through Pettah, a bustling neighborhood known for its markets and vibrant street life. It's the place to experience the lively side of Colombo commerce.

Enjoy a stroll in the Dutch Hospital, one of the oldest buildings in the Colombo Fort area, now beautifully restored as a dining and shopping precinct.

Visit the Floating Market in Pettah, where vendors sell local crafts, food, and fashion items on beautifully arranged boats and waterfront stalls.

Experience the vibrant Hindu culture at New Kathiresan Kovil, dedicated to the war god Skanda and known for its colorful festivals.

View St. Lucia's Cathedral, the largest church in Sri Lanka, showcasing magnificent architecture and serving as the seat of the Archbishop of Colombo.

Visit Premadasa & Co. Jewellers, a renowned spot for exquisite gemstones and fine jewelry, showcasing Sri Lanka's rich gem industry.

End your tour with a visit to Old Kathiresan Temple, another significant Hindu temple in Pettah, dedicated to Lord Murugan and noted for its annual chariot festival.

End with a drop-off at your hotel, completing the journey.

What's not included

Gangaramaya Temple Entrance Fee - $4

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.

Top Attractions

Galle Face Green

A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

National Museum of Colombo

Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

Museum 2-3 hours LKR 1,000 (foreigners)

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Beira Lake

A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.

Shopping 1-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.

Main Dish Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.

Dinner/Snack Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.

Main Dish Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Popular Activities

Hiking Water sports Wildlife safaris Beach activities Spa treatments Yoga Temple visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo

By train

Colombo Fort Station

By bus

Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colombo Fort Cinnamon Gardens Galle Face Pettah

Day trips

Kandy

115 km • Full day

Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.

Galle

120 km • Full day

Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

Negombo

35 km • Half day

Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.

Festivals

Vesak • May (full moon day) Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day) Christmas • December 25

Pro tips

Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat