Sri Lanka’s commercial hub and financial capital, Colombo is situated 31Km’s from the International Airport in Katunayake. The easiest ways to get to this city will be by a hired cab/van or by bus or by train.Colombo was a famous city among the traders from various parts of the world, from over 2000 years because of its natural harbour.
This city has a grand mix of everything a traveller would like to see and feel in a busy city. It has modern commercial buildings, 5 star Hotels with spectacular views, shopping malls and Movie Theatres etc. that caters to the modern needs of Today’s travellers. On the other hand, you will find tranquillity among the colonial structures, Museums and art galleries that boasts of this city’s rich heritage and diversified cultures.You’ll be able to find English speaking and quite educated society in Colombo. Most of the taxi drivers will understand what you’re trying to say even if they fail to communicate with you in the same language.
If sightseeing is in your agenda you might want to visit the National Museum situated in Colombo 7 or the Dutch Period Museum that will take you through different era’s that Sri Lanka has been through.
Buddhist and people of other religions visit Gangaramaya temple to worship and to see the beautiful shrines and other things related to Buddhism exhibited in this temple. It’s situated closer to the Beira Lake which you’ll be able to find quite easily. They have an annual perahera which is only second to the perahera in Kandy. It is held for 2 days on and before Navam Poya Day, which in February.
If you are a Muslim gentleman looking for a mosque to do your daily prayers in Colombo you’ll be able to find Dewatagaha Mosque in Cinnamon Gardens (Col. 7) near the Town Hall. And Hindu’s often visit the massive kovil in Slave Island.
Around Colombo there are many other religious places that can be visited and please do not forget to wear decent clothing as requested by each religious place to avoid inconveniences.
For Shopping there are some great shopping malls and small boutiques in and around the city which will surely make shopaholics ecstatic. Crescat Boulevard, Majestic City, Liberty Plaza and ODEL are few places that you’ll be able to get some great high end goods and House of Fashion will give you great bargains on same type of goods at most times. There are many souvenir shops such as Barefoot, Laksala and Paradise Road items that you will definitely want to pack your bags with as soon as you see them. Most shops open at 10 am and close around 7pm or 8pm in this city.
This city’s got almost everything and you will be able to enjoy some awesome food at any type of restaurant you please or enjoy drinks at a pub or dance the night away at a happening night club or at a Beach Party with heart thumping music, happening mostly during weekends.
Colombo can be a great place to visit if you know exactly where to go, when to go and how to go. So check for information before you leave your hotel or before you get to Colombo. You are sure to have a great experience.
