Authentic Sinhalese Cooking Class in Colombo with a Local Family
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Gain insider knowledge about Sri Lankan food, spices, and cooking methods. Ideal for travelers looking for a unique local activity to immerse themselves in Sri Lankan culture and cuisine. Whether traveling alone, as a couple, or in a group, this cooking class in Colombo is a fun and educational way to experience authentic Sri Lankan food and culture.
- Authentic Sri Lankan Cooking Experience in a Local home
- Learn to cook traditional Sri Lankan dishes in Colombo with a local family
- Enjoy a personal, intimate experience offering a glimpse into Sri Lankan hospitality and culture
- Master the art of cooking three authentic Sinhalese dishes, guided by a local expert, using traditional cooking techniques
- After cooking, sit down to share the delicious meal you’ve prepared in a relaxed, friendly setting
If you select the market tour option - explore a local market to select fresh ingredients, learning about local produce and spices used in Sri Lankan cuisine
Available options
Cooking + Dinner w/ Shasikala
Market + cooking + dinner
Market + cooking + lunch
Cooking + Lunch w/ Shasikala
What's included
If you choose the market tour option, you will visit a local neighborhood market
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Non-alcoholic beverages
Gratuities
Private cooking class and meal with your host Shasikala
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
7 reviews
5★
6
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Menu may vary depending on the season
If any travelers in your party have any allergies, dietary restrictions or cooking preferences please advise at time of booking
Shasikala can offer vegetarian, vegan and halal meals on request, please advise at time of booking if required
Please note, this is not a commercial cooking class, rather this experience is a visit into a local's home to meet a local who is an expert cook, and share Sri Lankan culture and cuisine together
Meeting point
Please meet your host Shasikala at her home in Bellanthara, Dehiwala. Exact address can be found in your ticket upon booking confirmation. Above is just neighborhood details, please check the 'before you go' section on your voucher for the exact address and host contact details.
Important notes
Local contact information: If you need assistance, please contact your host Shasikala:
Host Name: Shasikala Samuel
Host Phone: +94 770 586 959
Host Email: shasikala_samuel@live.com
Host Address: 46/4/1, Mayura Mawatha, Bellanthara, Dehiwala, Colombo, Sri Lanka - 10350
Meeting Instructions: Meet Shasikala at her home in Bellanthara, Dehiwala. Please call her for directions (+94 770 586 959).
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Traveling Spoon is a supplier of Viator and TripAdvisor. We offer travelers authentic food experiences with personally vetted locals in their homes. Founded by two travelers and food lovers, Traveling Spoon helps others make meaningful cultural connections through food. For specific questions related to your booking please contact your host directly with the contact information provided above.
We hope you are looking forward to your in-home culinary experience with a local!
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
