Colombo is a city in Western Province, Sri Lanka, with a mix of religious sites, museums, public spaces, markets and waterfront landmarks. Visitors can explore Buddhist temples such as Gangaramaya Temple and Seema Malaka, along with the Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque and other places of worship. The Colombo National Museum presents collections connected with Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural heritage, while Independence Square marks the country’s move to self-rule. Galle Face Green offers an ocean-side promenade, and Beira Lake adds a central water setting. Pettah Market suits travellers interested in local trade, food and jewellery, while the Colombo Lotus Tower provides an observation point and a recognisable city landmark. The city suits travellers who want to combine culture, museums, architecture, markets and urban walks in one visit. Its range of religious, civic and leisure sights also works well for a city-focused itinerary.
Known for: Buddhist temples, Museums, City landmarks, Markets, Religious sites
Top things to do in Colombo
Gangaramaya Temple: A Colombo temple on Beira Lake, combining modern architecture with cultural elements and offering a walk nearby.
Galle Face Green: An ocean-side urban park and promenade, suited to coastal walks, sunset views and local street food.
Colombo National Museum: Sri Lanka’s largest museum, with collections covering cultural and natural heritage, including Kandyan royal regalia.
Independence Square: A national monument and former ceremonial site, with the Independence Memorial Museum and space for walks.
Colombo Lotus Tower: A symbolic lotus-shaped landmark with communication, observation and leisure facilities.
Pettah Market: An open market known for trading, jewellery shops and the distinctive Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque.
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque: A historic mosque in Pettah and one of Colombo’s oldest mosques, attracting visitors as a popular city site.
Seema Malaka: A Buddhist temple on Beira Lake, mainly used for meditation and rest, and part of Gangaramaya Temple.
When is the best time to visit Colombo?
Best months: January to March
January to March is the usual time to visit, the driest months. May and October to November bring heavy rain, and June to August is the south-west monsoon.
January: 80 mm of rain, some rain (good time to go)
February: 77 mm of rain, some rain (good time to go)
March: 112 mm of rain, some rain (good time to go)
April: 219 mm of rain, rainy
May: 314 mm of rain, heavy rain
June: 144 mm of rain, some rain
July: 101 mm of rain, some rain
August: 134 mm of rain, some rain
September: 196 mm of rain, rainy
October: 321 mm of rain, heavy rain
November: 357 mm of rain, heavy rain
December: 192 mm of rain, rainy
How to reach Colombo
By air: Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (CMB), about 31 km from the centre of Colombo in a straight line
By train: Fort Railway Station, about 4 km from the centre of Colombo in a straight line