Colombo, Sri Lanka: Best Things To Do
Colombo is one of South Asia's most underrated city breaks — a buzzing port capital where Dutch colonial architecture rubs shoulders with gleaming skyscrapers, and where you can eat an extraordinary meal for under three dollars. Whether you're stopping over en route to the beaches or making it your main destination, this city rewards curious travellers who are willing to dig a little deeper.
Overview
Sri Lanka's commercial capital sits on the western coast of the island and is home to around 750,000 people in the city proper, swelling to over two million across the greater metro area. The city is divided into numbered districts — locals still refer to these by number, so knowing that Colombo 3 (Kollupitiya) is the upmarket hub and Colombo 11 (Pettah) is the chaotic bazaar district will save you a lot of confusion.
The best time to visit is between November and April, when the southwest monsoon has passed and skies are reliably clear. The currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee, and one US dollar gets you roughly 300 LKR at the time of writing. English is widely spoken, tuk-tuks are everywhere, and the food scene has quietly become one of the best in the region. Simply put, Colombo punches well above its weight.
Top 10 Things To Do in Colombo
- Explore Galle Face Green: This wide oceanfront promenade is the city's social heartbeat at sunset. Join locals eating isso wade (prawn fritters) from street vendors — budget around $0.50 per snack — and watch the Indian Ocean light up orange.
- Lose yourself in Pettah Market: Colombo's oldest bazaar is sensory overload in the best possible way. Each street is dedicated to a different trade — spices, electronics, fabrics, dried fish. Go on a weekday morning before the crowds build.
- Visit the National Museum: Located in Cinnamon Gardens (Colombo 7), this colonial-era building houses royal regalia, ancient masks, and a fascinating collection of local art. Entry costs around $2 for foreign visitors.
- Climb Gangaramaya Temple: One of the most eclectic Buddhist temples you'll ever visit, filled with an extraordinary collection of donations from devotees worldwide — classic cars, Buddha statues, and ivory tusks sit side by side. Dress modestly and remove your shoes at the entrance.
- Shop and eat at Arcade Independence Square: A beautifully restored colonial arcade in the heart of Colombo 7, housing local boutiques, excellent coffee shops, and some of the city's best casual restaurants. Don't miss a proper iced coffee at Harpo's.
- Take a street food tour of Slave Island: Colombo 2 is where the city's Muslim, Tamil, and Sinhalese communities have traded and lived together for centuries. The biryani here — particularly from the lunch spots along Slave Island Road — is exceptional and costs under $2.
- Stroll through the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct: One of the oldest buildings in the Fort district (Colombo 1), this 17th-century colonial hospital is now a stylish dining and shopping complex. Great for sundowners at Ministry of Crab, if your budget stretches to it.
- Day trip to Kelaniya Temple: Just 30 minutes from the city centre by tuk-tuk (around $5 each way), this serene riverside temple is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka and is almost entirely crowd-free compared to the city's main attractions.
- Browse the Barefoot Gallery: Hidden on a quiet street in Colombo 3, this independent store and gallery sells gorgeous hand-woven textiles, books, and art. The courtyard café is perfect for a quiet afternoon break.
- Watch a cricket match at R. Premadasa Stadium: If you're visiting during a match, grab a ticket and join the passionate local crowd. Even if cricket isn't your thing, the atmosphere is unforgettable and tickets start from around $5.
Practical Tips
- Getting around by tuk-tuk is easy and cheap — always agree on a price before you get in, or use the PickMe app (Sri Lanka's answer to Uber) for transparent pricing.
- Tap water is not safe to drink. Bottled water is widely available and costs around $0.30.
- Dress respectfully when visiting temples — shoulders and knees should be covered. A lightweight scarf is useful to carry.
- The heat and humidity can be draining. Plan your outdoor activities for early morning and late afternoon, and rest during the midday heat.
- Most restaurants and guesthouses accept card payments, but carry some cash for markets and street food.
Getting There
Plan your trip to Colombo
Colombo is served by Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located about 30 kilometres north of the city centre in Katunayake. The airport has direct connections to major hubs including Dubai, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, London, and Doha. Airlines such as SriLankan Airlines, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Qatar Airways all operate regular services. From the airport, the Colombo Commuter Rail is the cheapest option into the city at around $0.50, while a taxi costs approximately $12 to $15 and takes 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.
Accommodation Options
- Budget ($15–$40/night): The Colombo City Hostel in Wellawatte and several guesthouses around Colombo 3 offer clean, well-located rooms at honest prices.
- Mid-range ($60–$120/night):