Colonial History, Coastal Charm
Explore Colombo
Sri Lanka’s capital blends colonial heritage, Buddhist culture, oceanfront scenery, and modern city life. From historic landmarks to seaside railways, Colombo offers a different perspective before exploring the rest of the island.
Colombo was my starting and ending point for exploring Sri Lanka. While many visitors simply pass through on the way to the country’s famous cultural and natural attractions, spending an extra day here allowed me to appreciate a city filled with history, character, and everyday local life.
Check out my photography in Colombo Visual Stories
for more moments from Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital.
What I Enjoy About Colombo
My journey through Sri Lanka took me across several cities including Dambulla, Sigiriya, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya, with a day spent exploring the highlights of each. Every stop offered something different, from ancient temples and UNESCO heritage sites to breathtaking landscapes.
The journey reached its peak with the world-famous Esala Perahera Festival in Kandy, where centuries-old traditions came alive in one unforgettable celebration. Another memorable experience was visiting the tea plantations and staying at the iconic Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya, a place that reflects Sri Lanka’s rich heritage of hospitality.
After travelling across the island, I stayed an extra day in Colombo with my sister instead of simply passing through. That gave us time to explore the city at a slower pace and discover a side of Sri Lanka many visitors often miss.
What stood out most was Colombo’s nostalgic atmosphere. Many parts of the city still carry traces of its colonial past, with grand historic buildings standing alongside modern developments. Walking through the streets almost felt like stepping onto the set of an old movie, where history and everyday life continue to exist side by side.
One of my favourite sights was the coastline, where trains run just metres from the Indian Ocean. Watching the trains pass against the backdrop of crashing waves is one of those simple scenes that makes Colombo unforgettable.
As someone from Thailand, it was also fascinating to see how deeply Buddhism has become part of Sri Lankan culture. Although many people share similar features with those across India, the Buddhist traditions, temples, and way of life create a unique identity that feels both familiar and different at the same time.
Where to Visit in Colombo
Colombo offers a mix of colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, museums, bustling markets, seaside promenades, and modern shopping districts. While it may not be as famous as Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, spending at least a full day here reveals a city with plenty of character and stories waiting to be discovered.
Here are Colombo’s
Most Instagrammable Spots
- Gangaramaya Temple – One of Colombo’s most famous Buddhist temples, blending Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architectural influences.
- Seema Malaka Temple – A peaceful temple floating on Beira Lake, designed by Geoffrey Bawa.
- Galle Face Green – Colombo’s iconic oceanfront promenade, especially beautiful at sunset.
- Colombo Fort – Historic colonial district filled with grand buildings and hidden architectural gems.
- Old Parliament Building – An elegant colonial landmark overlooking the sea.
- Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque) – One of Colombo’s most photographed buildings with its striking red-and-white façade.
- Pettah Market – Colourful streets packed with local life, markets, and street photography opportunities.
- Lotus Tower – Sri Lanka’s tallest landmark offering panoramic views of the city.
- Independence Memorial Hall – A beautiful national monument surrounded by landscaped gardens.
- Dutch Hospital Precinct – A restored colonial complex filled with cafés, restaurants, and boutiques.
- Beira Lake – Calm waters reflecting the city skyline, especially during sunset.
- Coastal Railway Line – One of Colombo’s most iconic scenes, where trains travel alongside the Indian Ocean, creating postcard-worthy views.
