Central Market

Colombo


In a modern multistorey building, this market lacks the vibrant charm of Pettah's other market offerings.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Colombo attractions

1. Old City Hall

0.12 MILES

Dating to 1865, this municipal building from the British era is mostly empty today, save for some old trucks and municipal equipment on display in the…

2. Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque

0.16 MILES

In the heart of Pettah, the decorative 1909 Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque is a show-stopper with its candy-striped red-and-white brickwork. Guards will usually let…

4. Old Kathiresan Kovil

0.18 MILES

Dedicated to the war god Murugan (Skanda), this is the middle of three adjoining kovils (temples).

5. New Kathiresan Kovil

0.2 MILES

Dedicated to the war god Murugan (Skanda), this is the northernmost of three adjoining temples. It's one of the largest in Colombo and was built in 1830.

6. Potato Warehouse

0.22 MILES

If you can dodge the teeming mass of load-carrying labourers for a moment, it pays to look up as you explore Pettah. Case in point is this old potato…

7. Federation of Self Employees Market

0.28 MILES

The concentrated and manic commerce of Pettah is concentrated even further in its markets. Stretching along 5th Cross St, this don't-miss market is a hive…

8. Dutch Period Museum

0.3 MILES

This unique museum was originally the 17th-century residence of the Dutch governor and has since been used as a Catholic seminary, a military hospital, a…