Colombo is often dismissed as a transit city, but Sri Lanka's capital rewards at least a day or two of exploration. Here are the top 15 things to do.
1. Visit the Gangaramaya Temple — A fascinating mix of modern and traditional Buddhist architecture.
2. Explore the Colombo National Museum — A great introduction to Sri Lankan history and culture.
3. Wander through the Pettah — A chaotic, colorful bazaar district.
4. Walk along Galle Face Green — A seafront promenade famous for sunset, street food, and kite-flying.
5. Visit the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara — A sacred Buddhist temple just outside the city.
6. Shop at Barefoot and Paradise Road — Two of Colombo's most loved lifestyle stores.
7. Dine at Ministry of Crab or Nihonbashi — Two of Asia's top restaurants.
8. Take a tuk-tuk tour of Fort and Pettah.
9. Visit the Independence Square.
10. Explore the Dutch Hospital shopping precinct — A 17th-century building now housing restaurants and shops.
11. Take in the view from the Lotus Tower — The tallest building in South Asia.
12. Visit the Mount Lavinia Beach — A 20-minute drive south of the city.
13. Have high tea at the Galle Face Hotel — A colonial landmark.
14. Explore the Colombo Port City — A new waterfront development.
15. Day trip to Negombo (20 minutes north) — For beaches and the famous fish market.
Most of Colombo's highlights are clustered in the Fort, Cinnamon Gardens, and Kollupitiya areas, all easy to explore by tuk-tuk or on foot.
