About Colombo
Colombo is the commercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka. According to the Brookings Institution, Colombo metropolitan area has a population of 5.6 million, and 752,993 in the city proper. It is the financial centre of the island and a busy, vibrant place with a mixture of modern life and colonial buildings. The city has a rich history as a port on the ancient Silk Road and was colonised by the Portuguese in the 16th century, then by the Dutch in the 17th century, and finally by the British in the 19th century. Today, Colombo is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population and a thriving food, arts, and culture scene.
Highlights
Best Time to Visit
How to Get There
- By air: Bandaranaike International Airport (30 km from city centre)
- By road: Well connected to all major cities
- By train: Central railway station in Fort area
Attractions & Activities 4
Gangaramaya Temple
Explore Colombo's most eclectic Buddhist temple, a fascinating blend of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, an...
Galle Face Green
Join locals for an evening stroll along this iconic 500-metre oceanfront promenade, enjoy street foo...
Pettah Market
Dive into the sensory overload of Colombo's oldest and most vibrant bazaar district, where narrow st...
National Museum of Colombo
Discover Sri Lanka's rich history and cultural heritage at the country's largest museum, featuring r...
