• Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil - Sri Kailasanathar Swami Devasthanam is among the oldest and most revered Hindu temples in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is celebrated for its exquisite Dravidian-style architecture, vibrant sculptures, and detailed carvings. The temple, believed to be over 200 years old, serves as a spiritual center for the Tamil Hindu community. It features a towering gopuram adorned with colorful deities, depicting Hindu mythology. Devotees visit to seek blessings, perform rituals, and celebrate major festivals like Maha Shivaratri. The temple also conducts daily poojas, attracting both worshippers and tourists. Located in Colombo’s bustling Pettah area, Sri Kailasanathar Swami Devasthanam stands as a symbol of faith, heritage, and devotion amidst the city’s urban landscape.

• Colombo Lotus Tower - Lotus Tower is a 350 m (1,150 ft) tall tower, located in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It has been called a symbolic landmark of Sri Lanka. As of 2019, the tower is the tallest self-supported structure in South Asia; the second tallest structure in South Asia after the guy-wire-supported INS Kattabomman in India; the 11th tallest tower in Asia and the 19th tallest tower in the world. It was initially proposed to be built in the suburb of Peliyagoda but later the Government of Sri Lanka decided to change the location. The lotus-shaped tower is used for communication, observation, and other leisure facilities. Construction is estimated to have cost USD 113 million.

• Colombo Fort Railway Station - Fort railway station is a major rail hub in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The station is served by Sri Lanka Railways, with many inter-city and commuter trains entering each day. Fort Station is the main rail gateway to central Colombo; it is the terminus of most intercity trains in the country.

• Colombo Fort - Colombo Fort, the historic heart of Sri Lanka’s capital, is a district that embodies centuries of cultural and architectural evolution. Initially established by the Portuguese in the early 16th century as a fortified outpost, the area later flourished under Dutch and British rule, each contributing distinct influences that shaped its urban landscape. Today, Colombo Fort is a vibrant hub where colonial heritage meets modern innovation, marked by a mix of ancient fortifications and contemporary structures. Among its notable landmarks are the Mansion Fort Buildings, elegant relics that once housed influential merchants and colonial administrators. With intricate detailing, preserved facades, and a rich historical charm, these buildings narrate stories of opulence and strategic importance. Serving as a center for commerce, culture, and tourism, Colombo Fort continues to capture the spirit of a city that reveres its storied past while embracing progress and innovation.

• Colombo Fort Old Lighthouse & Clock Tower - The tower was constructed as a clock tower in 1856-57 and completed on 25 February 1857. The tower was designed by Emily Elizabeth Ward, the wife of Governor Sir Henry George Ward (1797 – 1860). The construction was undertaken by the Public Works Department, under the supervision of Mr. John Flemming Churchill (Director General of Public Works). The 29-metre-high (95 ft) tower was the tallest structure in Colombo at that time. The original clock was commissioned for £1,200 in 1814 by the then Governor Sir Robert Brownrigg (1759 – 1833) but was kept in a warehouse, due to economic reasons, until 1857 when it was finally installed.

The lighthouse was deactivated after its light became obscured by nearby buildings and was decommissioned on 12 July 1952. The modern Galle Buck Lighthouse was erected on Marine Drive as its replacement.

• The Central Point - Economic History Museum - The Colombo Economic History Museum is a unique institution located in the historic Central Bank of Sri Lanka building in Colombo Fort. Opened in 2013, the museum highlights Sri Lanka’s economic evolution, particularly focusing on its banking and trade history.

The museum showcases a vast collection of ancient coins, currency notes, bonds, and banking documents, tracing the country’s financial journey from the colonial period to modern times. Exhibits also detail Sri Lanka’s tea, rubber, and spice trade, which played a vital role in shaping its economy.

Housed in a colonial-era building, the museum offers visitors an insight into monetary policies, inflation trends, and financial crises that have influenced Sri Lanka’s economic landscape. Interactive displays and archival records provide a deeper understanding of the country’s fiscal growth.

• President’s House - President’s House is the official residence and workplace of the President of Sri Lanka, located at Janadhipathi Mawatha, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Since 1804 it has been the residence of British governors and governors-general and Sri Lankan presidents, having been known as the “King’s House” or the “Queen’s House” until Sri Lanka became a republic in 1972.

There have been 29 governors who resided here, and also six presidents who resided or used it in an official capacity. Currently, it is used by Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the President of Sri Lanka for state functions. The Presidential Secretariat functions as the office of the president, with much of the presidential staff based there.

• Sri Lanka Post Headquarters - The Old General Post Office (GPO) in Colombo is a historic landmark located in the Fort area, symbolizing Sri Lanka’s colonial-era postal system. Built in 1895 during British rule, this grand neo-Renaissance-style building served as the country’s central hub for postal services for over a century.

Designed with large columns, intricate archways, and spacious halls, the Old GPO was a significant center for mail distribution, handling both local and international correspondence. Its strategic location in Colombo Fort, near the port and key government buildings, made it an essential part of the city’s communication network.

However, the building suffered damage during civil unrest and the 1996 Central Bank bombing, leading to its closure. Today, while the postal headquarters has been relocated, the Old GPO remains an architectural treasure, with discussions on its restoration and potential use for cultural or commercial purposes.

• Cargills Department Store - Cargills (Ceylon) PLC, a major Sri Lankan retail and food company, has a significant presence in Colombo, with its headquarters housed in the historic Cargills Building. Located in the heart of Colombo Fort, this colonial-era structure is an architectural landmark that reflects the city’s rich heritage. Originally built in the 19th century during British rule, the red-brick building was first a warehouse before being converted into Cargills’ flagship department store. The building stands out with its neoclassical design, arched windows, and intricate detailing, making it a cultural icon. Over the years, it has witnessed Colombo’s transformation while maintaining its historic charm. Today, it serves as the corporate headquarters of Cargills, overseeing its vast network of supermarkets, fast-food chains, and food production units across Sri Lanka. Despite modern developments around it, the Cargills Building remains a symbol of the city’s colonial past and commercial progress.

• Grand Oriental Hotel - The Grand Oriental Hotel (GOH) in Colombo is a historic colonial-era hotel located in the Fort area, offering stunning views of the Colombo Port. Originally built as a British military barracks, it was transformed into a luxury hotel in 1875, making it one of the oldest hotels in Sri Lanka.

GOH features colonial-style architecture, grand interiors, and classic furnishings, preserving its old-world charm. The hotel has hosted renowned guests, including writers, diplomats, and traders, who visited Colombo during its peak as a global maritime hub.

The hotel’s Harbour Room restaurant provides breathtaking views of the port, making it a favorite dining spot. Despite competition from modern hotels, GOH remains a symbol of Colombo’s colonial past, attracting visitors who appreciate heritage, history, and classic hospitality. As a blend of tradition and modernity, the Grand Oriental Hotel continues to be a cherished landmark in Colombo’s hospitality scene.

• Old Town Hall - The building is situated amidst the bustling shops and street stalls of Pettah. It features arches, needlepoint columns, crumbly yellow walls, and creaky staircases, giving it the feel of a haunted mansion. It might be a fun visit with friends later in the day. There is no entrance ticket; visitors can simply walk inside and ask someone near the main staircase if they can explore the building. There’s a small museum of interesting old items next to the building that visitors can check out too. Sugath is the current caretaker and will guide visitors up some creaky wooden steps to a musty floor upstairs. Next to the door to this ‘museum’ are some well-kept rooms with many chairs and wooden tables that appear to be still in use today. Sugath mentions these spaces are sometimes used for official meetings.

• Pettah - Pettah is a neighborhood in Colombo, Sri Lanka, located east of the City Centre Fort. The Pettah neighborhood is famous for the Pettah Market, a series of open-air bazaars and markets. It is one of Sri Lanka’s busiest commercial areas, where a huge number of wholesale and retail shops, buildings, commercial institutions, and other organizations are located.

The main market segment is designed like a gigantic crossword puzzle, where one may traverse through the entire markets from dawn till dusk, but not completely cover every part of it.

Pettah is derived from Tamil: Pettai, an Anglo-Indian word used to indicate a suburb outside a fort. Today, the Sinhala phrase, pita-kotuwa (outside the fort) conveniently describes the same place.

• Vegetable Market - The vegetable market in Pettah, Colombo, is a bustling hub of trade where vendors and buyers gather daily to exchange fresh produce. Located in the Pettah Market area, this wholesale and retail market supplies a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, and herbs sourced from different regions of Sri Lanka.

Early in the morning, trucks arrive loaded with fresh produce from rural farms, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. Vendors quickly unload, sort, and display their goods, while buyers, including restaurant owners, small traders, and everyday shoppers, negotiate prices in a fast-paced environment.

The market is known for its affordable prices, making it a preferred spot for bulk purchases. The mix of colors, scents, and the loud calls of vendors make it a unique cultural experience. Despite the occasional congestion, the Pettah vegetable market remains an essential part of Colombo’s food supply chain, connecting farmers with consumers and sustaining the city’s culinary needs.

• Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque - The Red Mosque, officially known as Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, is one of Colombo’s most striking landmarks. Located in the heart of Pettah, this mosque is renowned for its vibrant red-and-white striped façade, blending Indo-Saracenic, Gothic, and Neo-Classical architectural styles.

Built in 1908 by the city’s Muslim community, the mosque was designed to serve as a place of worship and a guiding landmark for sailors approaching Colombo’s port. Its domes, minarets, and intricate detailing make it one of the most visually stunning buildings in Sri Lanka. Despite its historical significance, the mosque remains an active place of worship, accommodating hundreds of worshippers, especially during Friday prayers.

The Red Mosque continues to attract visitors for both its religious importance and architectural beauty. Its unique design and historical value make it a must-see destination for those exploring Colombo’s cultural and religious heritage.

• Kayman’s Gate Belltower - Kayman’s Gate in Colombo is a historic landmark located in Pettah, marking the site of one of the original entrances to the Dutch Fort of Colombo. Built during the Dutch colonial period in the 17th century, it was once an important gateway controlling access to the fortified city. The name “Kayman” is believed to come from the Dutch word for caiman, a type of crocodile, as the area was once home to a crocodile-infested moat.

The most notable feature of Kayman’s Gate today is the Old Belfry, a clock tower built by the British in 1875. This bell tower once served as a fire alarm system and was also used to announce significant events in the city. Though the original Dutch gate no longer exists, the belfry remains as a historical monument, standing amidst the bustling streets of Pettah. Today, it serves as a symbol of Colombo’s colonial past, reminding visitors of the city’s Dutch and British heritage.

• Christian Reformed Church of Sri Lanka - The Wolvendaal Church in Colombo is one of the oldest and most significant Dutch colonial churches in Sri Lanka. Built in 1749 by the Dutch, it is located in Pettah and remains an important symbol of the Dutch Reformed Church’s presence in the country. The name “Wolvendaal” comes from the Dutch word for “Wolf’s Dale,” as the Dutch mistook the roaming jackals in the area for wolves.

Constructed in the shape of a Greek cross, the church features thick walls, high ceilings, and large windows, designed to keep the interior cool. Inside, it houses antique wooden furniture, tombstones of Dutch officials, and a beautifully crafted pulpit made from Malaysian ebony. The churchyard contains the graves of prominent Dutch colonial figures.

Still active today, Wolvendaal Church stands as a historical and religious landmark, attracting both worshippers and visitors interested in Colombo’s rich colonial heritage and architectural beauty.

• Pettah Floating Market - The Floating Market in Colombo, located in Pettah, is a unique shopping and tourist attraction built over the Beira Lake. Opened in 2014, the market was designed to blend commerce with scenic beauty, offering a tranquil shopping experience away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

The market consists of wooden pavilions and floating platforms, where vendors sell a variety of goods, including clothing, footwear, handicrafts, electronics, and fresh produce. Small bridges connect the stalls, creating a distinctive floating effect. At night, the market is beautifully lit, enhancing its charm.

Originally intended to be a major tourist attraction, the market has faced challenges, including declining business activity and maintenance issues. Despite this, it remains a scenic spot for visitors to enjoy a walk by the lake, take photos, or relax by the water. With proper restoration and promotion, the Floating Market could regain its appeal as a vibrant part of Colombo’s urban landscape.

• Old Parliament Building - The Old Parliament Building in Colombo is an iconic neoclassical structure located along Galle Face Green, overlooking the Indian Ocean. Completed in 1930 during British colonial rule, it originally housed the Legislative Council of Ceylon and later became the Parliament of Sri Lanka until 1982, when the new Parliament complex was built in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte.

The building’s grand Greek-Roman architectural style, with towering Corinthian columns, symbolizes Sri Lanka’s political history. It has witnessed key moments in the country’s governance, including its independence in 1948.

Today, the Old Parliament serves as the Presidential Secretariat, where government administrative functions take place. Though not open to the public, visitors can admire its majestic exterior and historic significance. Standing as a symbol of Sri Lanka’s democratic evolution, the Old Parliament Building remains a vital part of Colombo’s colonial and political heritage.

• Colombo Port City - Port City Colombo is a massive urban development project built on 269 hectares of reclaimed land along Colombo’s coastline. Launched in 2014 and backed by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), it aims to transform Colombo into a world-class financial, commercial, and residential hub.

Designed as a modern smart city, Port City will feature luxury apartments, business districts, shopping malls, hotels, entertainment centers, and a marina. The development is expected to boost Sri Lanka’s economy by attracting global investors and positioning Colombo as a leading financial hub in South Asia.

Located adjacent to the Colombo Fort area, Port City enjoys a strategic location along major global shipping routes, enhancing its appeal for international businesses. Although the project has faced environmental and political debates, it remains one of Sri Lanka’s most ambitious infrastructure ventures.

• Colombo Port Old Lighthouse - The Galbokka Lighthouse in Colombo is a prominent maritime landmark located near the Colombo Harbour within the Galle Buck Green area. Built in 1952, this modern lighthouse replaced the older Colombo Lighthouse, which had become non-functional due to the city’s growing skyline.

Standing 29 meters (95 feet) tall, the lighthouse features a white cylindrical tower with a viewing deck, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, Colombo Port, and the city skyline. Though it is an active lighthouse, guiding ships into the busy harbor, its location within a naval base restricts public access inside. However, visitors can admire the structure from Galle Buck Green, a small public park nearby.

The Galbokka Lighthouse remains a symbol of Colombo’s maritime heritage, serving both as a navigational aid and a picturesque attraction. Its location near the bustling port highlights Colombo’s historical role as a key trade and shipping hub in the Indian Ocean.

• Colombo Port Maritime Museum - The Sri Lanka Ports Authority Maritime Museum, commonly known as the Colombo Maritime Museum, is located at 19 Chaithya Road, Colombo, adjacent to the Colombo Port. The museum is operated and maintained by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.

• Galle Face Green - Galle Face Green has always played a special part in the lives of Colombo-dwellers, although it is the British who are credited with making it a place of social interaction, as it remains today.

In colonial times, the British embraced Galle Face Green as a leisure ground, especially in the evening when elite ladies were said to promenade the length of the green. Active pursuits of cricket, football, polo, and the famed horse races also took place on Galle Face Green. Horse-racing became popular in the 1840s, and the Ceylon Turf Club was founded here sometime between the 1840s and 1860, although official records were not kept until 1866. The formal structure of the walk along the seaside was built during the period of Governor Ward in 1859. A plaque recognizes his achievement in providing a place where residents of Colombo could gather and socialize.

• Zylen Tea - Ceylon Tea Tasting in Colombo is a delightful experience for tea lovers and visitors looking to explore Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea culture. As the birthplace of Ceylon Tea, Sri Lanka offers numerous tea tasting sessions in tea boutiques, specialty stores, and luxury hotels across Colombo.

During a tea tasting session, guests can sample a variety of Ceylon teas, including black, green, white, and oolong teas, each with its unique flavor profile. Experts guide visitors through the tea grading process, brewing techniques, and aroma appreciation, helping them understand the richness of Sri Lankan tea.

Popular locations for tea tasting in Colombo include Zylen Tea. Many of these places offer tea pairings with sweets and savory treats, enhancing the experience. A Ceylon Tea tasting is not just about drinking tea—it’s an educational and cultural journey into one of Sri Lanka’s most treasured exports.

• Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple - Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most important temples in Colombo, Sri Lanka, being a mix of modern architecture and cultural essence. Located on the Beira Lake, it was completed in the late 19th century.

• War Memorial - The Cenotaph War Memorial is a solemn monument honoring those who lost their lives in military conflicts, particularly World War I and World War II. The most famous Cenotaph is in Whitehall, London, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and unveiled in 1920. It serves as the site of the UK’s National Service of Remembrance each year. The word “Cenotaph” means “empty tomb,” symbolizing soldiers buried elsewhere. Many other countries, including Canada, Australia, and Hong Kong, have their own Cenotaphs, serving as focal points for national remembrance. These memorials are typically simple in design but carry deep significance, representing sacrifice and national unity. They are often inscribed with phrases like “The Glorious Dead” and serve as places for wreath-laying and moments of silence. Today, Cenotaphs continue to remind generations of the cost of war and the value of peace.

• Independence Memorial Hall - The Independence Memorial Hall in Colombo is a national monument built to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule on February 4, 1948. Located in Independence Square, Cinnamon Gardens, this grand structure serves as a symbol of the country’s freedom and national pride.

Designed in the style of ancient Kandyan architecture, the hall features stone pillars with intricate carvings, reflecting Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. At the front stands a statue of D.S. Senanayake, the first Prime Minister of independent Sri Lanka. The open-air structure is used for state ceremonies, cultural events, and national celebrations.

Beneath the hall, the Independence Memorial Museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and historical documents related to Sri Lanka’s journey to independence. Surrounded by a beautiful park and walking paths, the Independence Memorial Hall remains a popular spot for visitors, locals, and history enthusiasts exploring Colombo’s heritage.

• Viharamahadevi Park - Formerly called Victoria Park, this expanse of vegetation in the heart of the city used to stretch uninterrupted from the town hall to Alfred Crescent. The Ceylon Agricultural Society held shows there in the area to the rear of the museum (now Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha). Today the park is multifunctional. At the western end is the War Memorial (where the November 11th Armistice Day parade happens).

Further to the south is the Colombo Public Library building (accessible from outside the park on Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha). Along the southern perimeter (across from the Art Gallery and former Garden Club building), one or two elephants can often be seen either bathing in a small pool or munching branches and leaves. It is from here the elephants that feature in the Gangaramaya Perahera depart. Elephants are brought to Colombo from all over the island specifically for the perahera (procession) held in February each year.

• Curry Pot - Curry Pot Restaurant in Colombo is renowned for its authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, offering a diverse menu that caters to both traditional tastes and contemporary preferences. The restaurant specializes in rice and curry dishes, allowing patrons to choose from proteins such as chicken, fish, or mutton, accompanied by samba or basmati rice and a variety of local vegetables. A standout offering is the Lamprais, where basmati rice is infused with traditional cumin flavors and served with chicken, egg, brinjal moju (eggplant pickle), pineapple curry, and a cutlet, all meticulously wrapped in a banana leaf to enhance the aromatic experience.

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Climb aboard a classic tuk tuk and discover the lively streets of Colombo with our welcoming local guides who are experts on the city. From famous landmarks to secret spots, immerse yourself in the culture, history, and vibrancy of Colombo with ease and elegance. Our tours are budget-friendly, allowing you to embark on an unforgettable journey without overspending. Reserve your tuk tuk tour now and create memories that will endure forever!

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