Colombo is the commercial capital and most populated city of Sri Lanka. As the country’s financial hub, the city is constantly attracting crowds of locals and tourists alike, bustling with activity. If you are in Colombo for the first time or visiting the city again, here are some must-do things when in the capital!
Gangaramaya Temple
Located on Beira Lake, this is one of the most important temples in Colombo. The Gangaramaya temple is famous because of its blend of architectural styles such as Sri Lankan, Thai and Chinese. Completed in the late 19th century by Hikkaduwa Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera, the temple is both a place of worship and learning with over 7,000 students. In the main sanctuary, there is a huge Buddha Statue and ceilings with paintings that depict Buddha’s story.
The temple is open daily from 6 am to 8 pm!
Independence Memorial Hall
Before being known as Independence Memorial Hall, this national monument was known as Torrington Square in the early days. The hall is based on the architecture of the audience hall located in Kandy. Statues of lions are placed around the building and the column and pillars are decorated with native traditional designs.
There is even a museum in the basement of the hall which many aren’t aware of. The museum displays statues of the national heroes who contributed to the fight for independence. Surrounding the Independence Memorial Hall is a magnificent garden, where you can relax and unwind. It’s a popular exercise area with many joggers and people taking a walk and you might even find the president himself taking a walk!
Red Mosque
Known to be an architectural wonder, the Red Mosque is an unmissable attraction. Its distinct red and white pattern has served as a landmark for sailors approaching the port since 1908. Located in Pettah district, one of the oldest parts of Colombo, the mosque is reminiscent of the Jamek Mosque in Kuala Lumpur. The mosque has an Indi-Saracenic architecture with pomegranate shaped domes.
Do remember to dress modestly in order to enter the mosque and to enjoy this delightful wonder!
Pettah Market
If you do visit the Red Mosque, check out the Pettah Market in the same district. This is Colombo’s most hectic shopping district, selling everything from fresh produce to electronics and clothes. Visiting the local markets is always the best way to experience first-hand how the locals live and go about their everyday lives.
Mount Lavinia Beach
Mount Lavinia Beach is the main sea-bathing spot in the city. The waves are deemed to be safe and swimmable depending on the season. Regardless, you will see many locals and tourists around this beach as there are many things to do. You can sunbathe, or try out some local snacks from the many cart vendors. Otherwise, you can dine at one of the higher-end restaurants and enjoy a view of the ocean at the same time. We’d highly suggest staying for the sunset as you can see the sun setting along the Western Indian Ocean.
Lotus Tower
On the seventh floor of this 350-metre tall building, you can see the outskirts of Colombo from the observation gallery. The Lotus Tower is the tallest completed tower in South Asia and the 19th tallest in the world. Interestingly, the tower was funded by China. It functions as a single transmission hub for telecommunications, digital TV and radio, reducing the carbon footprint in the city. Apart from this, the tower also comprises a hotel, conference centre and shopping mall. We’d suggest visiting the tower during sunset as only then will you catch the LED lighting light up the tower’s iconic lotus petals.
