Colombo

Save

Advertisement

Introducing Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, biggest city and major port, draws together all the colours and cultures that make up this island nation, condenses them into a patchwork of markets, gardens and buildings both humble and grand, and knocks them against a narrow slab of beachfront.

Many visitors will appreciate Colombo’s colonial heritage, its fine dining and shopping opportunities, and the dash of urban buzz in an overwhelmingly rural country. Others will tire quickly of the diesel fumes and the modern buildings on Galle Rd, the city’s main artery. If you’re only on a short trip to Sri Lanka, you may wish to pass by Colombo, but if you have the time – say at least two days – there are plenty of cultural and historical attractions in areas such as Fort, Cinnamon Gardens and Pettah.

Show full overview

Advertisement

In our shop

Travel Services

Travel insurance

You'll be glad you got it.

Get a quote

Flights

Leave on your kind of jet plane.

Compare flights
See all travel services

Advertisement

Vegetable vendor, Pettah Market.
View gallery

Vegetable vendor, Pettah Market.

Lonely Planet photographer
  • Greg Elms
  • Lonely Planet photographer
  • Elephants at Asokararmaya Temple.
  • Baby turtle at Kosgoda Turtle Sanctuary.
  • Boy performing handstands on Galle Face Beach.
  • Sri Lankan women stroll through the Pettah, Colombo's bustling bazaar
  • Brinjal, eggplant and chicken curry.
  • Loading pumpkins, Pettah Market.
View gallery