Top Things to Do in Colombo

About the City

Colombo, Sri Lanka, is a bustling metropolis with a charming blend of old and new. This vibrant city acts as a kaleidoscope of colorful streets, where tuk-tuks zip through traffic and street markets burst with life and fragrant spices. Colombo serves both as the commercial heartbeat of the island and a cultural melting pot, offering visitors a chance to experience Sri Lankan hospitality at its finest. Historical landmarks like the Gangaramaya Temple stand proudly alongside contemporary skyscrapers, creating a skyline that tells a story of a city that respects its past while racing towards the future. The Galle Face Green provides a breezy respite by the sea, where families and friends gather to enjoy spicy street food, and flying kites is a common sight. However, it's not all sunshine; the city's rapid development means traffic snarls are a daily frustration, and the tropical humidity can leave even the most enthusiastic explorer longing for an air-conditioned escape. While Colombo's embrace of progress has led to an array of dining and shopping experiences, the struggle to preserve its cultural identity is palpable amidst the hubbub of its growth. Overall, Colombo is an urban adventure waiting to unfold, with hidden gems and surprises tucked around every corner.

Things to Do in Colombo

Chomp on String Hoppers

Food & Drink

Embark on a culinary adventure with a plateful of string hoppers! These delicate nests of rice flour noodles are a breakfast staple, often paired with a fiery curry or a soothing coconut sambol. They'...

Kite-flying Frenzy at Galle Face Green

Outdoors

Let's add a splash of color to the Colombo sky with some kite-flying fun at Galle Face Green. Whether you're flying a store-bought beauty or a homemade wonder, all that matters is the laughter and the...

Treasure Hunt at the Thrift Market

The Unexpected

Scour the Colombo Flea Market for hidden treasures and pre-loved gems. Haggle for a vintage keepsake, snap up an old-school record, or grab an 'antique' that's as old as last month. Every find is a st...

Graffiti Spotting Spree

The Unexpected

Gear up for an urban safari to spot the wild street art that adorns Colombo's concrete jungle. From politically-charged pieces to vibrant murals, the city's walls tell tales in technicolor. Keep your ...

Yoga Amongst the Ruins

The Unexpected

Unroll your mat amidst antiquity at one of the city's ancient sites or ruins for a serene yoga session. It's a mix of history and zen, where you can salute the sun as it rises over remnants of the pas...

Catch a Traditional Puppet Show

The Unexpected

Pull the strings on a trip back in time by catching a traditional puppet show. It's a spectacle of color and storytelling that'll have you captivated with its old-school charm. It's like watching cart...

Nature Sketching at Beddagana Wetland Park

Outdoors

Whip out your sketchpad and unleashing your inner artist by the serene waters of Beddagana. Get inspired by the chirpy birdlife, tranquil lotus ponds, and the gentle rustle of leaves. Remember, it's n...

Picnic Pizzazz at Galle Face Green

Outdoors

Lay out your mat and soak up the sun with a chill picnic at Galle Face Green. Snack, nap, and play to the soundtrack of the roaring waves and giggling kiddos. Don't forget the king coconuts for a trul...

Birding Bonanza at Talangama Wetland

Outdoors

Whip out your binoculars and join the bird brigade! Talangama Wetland is chirping with excitement. Spot the exotic feathered locals and maybe even write your own birdwatcher's tweet about it!

Leisurely Bike Rides at Diyatha Uyana

Outdoors

Hop on two wheels and pedal your way around Diyatha Uyana. Enjoy the breezy ride beside the lake, wave at the joggers, and breathe in the feel-good vibes. It's like sightseeing with cardio!

Relish the Short Eats

Food & Drink

Embrace the munchies and go on a flavor-filled jaunt with Sri Lanka's famous short eats - an assortment of snacks that are perfect for on-the-go nibbling. From meaty patties to fish rolls and vegetabl...

Get Lost in The Labyrinth of Gangaramaya Temple

Sights

Enter the enchanting maze of Gangaramaya Temple! With more Buddha statues than you can count and an electric mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture, you'll be spellbound. And hey, t...

Stroll Through Viharamahadevi Park

Sights

Escape the concrete jungle and immerse yourself in the green haven of Viharamahadevi Park. Enjoy picnics, paddle-boating, and the golden Buddha statue! It's like Central Park, but with monkeys and a t...

Art Street Extravaganza: Green Path

Sights

Channel your inner art connoisseur at Green Path, where local artists showcase their masterpieces under the trees. Take a walk, pick up a painting or just enjoy the al fresco gallery vibes. It's a lit...

An Oceanic Oasis: Marine Drive

Sights

Fancy a breezy drive or a leisurely stroll with ocean whispers? Marine Drive is your way to vibe with the sea beside you, sans the sand in your shoes. It's a coastal road with a view—great for sunsets...

Colonial Constellations at The Dutch Hospital

Sights

Ready to time travel? The Dutch Hospital shopping precinct is where history hugs modern-day chill-out spots. Stunning colonial architecture fused with snazzy cafes and fancy boutiques—like walking thr...

Devour Some Hoppers

Food & Drink

Hop on over for a hopper, the bowl-shaped pancake that's the talk of Colombo town! These crispy edges with a soft and fluffy center are perfect for a swish and swipe through coconut sambol or a sunny-...

Nibble on Isso Wade

Food & Drink

Get your hands on these sizzling, crispy prawn fritters that are about to become your next favorite snack. Isso Wade is a street food delight that combines the crunch of a perfectly fried batter with ...

Feast on Wambatu Moju

Food & Drink

Lead a taste rebellion with Wambatu Moju, a sweet and sour eggplant dish that will leave you questioning all your previous veggie encounters. This pickled treat, oozing with caramelized onions and exo...

Dine with the Daredevils

The Unexpected

Are you game for dining in the pitch dark? Chow down in complete darkness and let your taste buds go wild guessing the meal. It’s all about the surprise in each bite, and who knows, you might end up e...