Colombo

Learn more about Colombo

Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, is a city opening up to the world and becoming cosmopolitan. An essential stop on your trip to Sri Lanka, Colombo boasts very popular galleries and museums as well as an intact colonial heritage. You will undoubtedly live a unique experience there.

During your stay in Colombo, we recommend visiting the Independence Memorial to understand the political history of the country, which gained its independence in 1948 after British rule. In the same spirit, the Colombo National Museum lets you discover the cultural history of the island and its strong Buddhist traditions.

Then continue to the Gangaramaya Buddhist temple, a sanctuary of this religion that houses the sacred Bodhi tree as well as dozens of representations of Buddha of all sizes. The Seema Malaka temple is also worth seeing. The entrance ticket is valid for both temples.

On your way out, you can take a relaxing break at Beira Lake. This lake in the middle of the city offers a very pleasant moment of respite before you set off sightseeing again, as does Viharamahadevi Park further south, which impresses with the size of its gigantic trees.

For local shopping, Pettah market is a must for unforgettable culinary and taste experiences. This bustling market is full of small shops and stalls selling fruit, vegetables and local specialities. You will find absolutely everything there, even Ayurvedic remedies.

Finally, end your stay with a walk along Galle Face Green near the port of Colombo, a peaceful spot overlooking the Indian Ocean. The port is also worth a detour to watch local fishermen at work while respecting the customs of old.

If you are on a touring trip in South Asia, also discover our hotels in India, such as the Best Western Ramachandra in Visakhapatnam, or the Best Western Yuvraj in Surat.