Colombo Travel Hacks. Money Saving, Time Saving, Local Secrets

Money-Saving Strategies

Travel wisely to make your budget stretch further in Colombo.

Smart Savings on Admission

No universal city-wide tourist passes are available for Colombo. Some individual attractions may have student discounts if you carry a valid international student ID.

Experiences at No Cost

Wander along Galle Face Green, especially in the evening, for observing people and enjoying sunset views.
Visit Viharamahadevi Park and Independence Memorial Hall. These public spaces have no entry fees.
Explore Pettah Market. Looking around is free, though purchases are tempting.
Walk around Beira Lake and view the exterior of Seema Malakaya (a small contribution is customary for the temple).

Dining Deals

Many mid-range and upscale restaurants and bars feature happy hour specials on drinks, and sometimes appetizers, typically in the late afternoon or early evening. Look for signs or ask staff.

Getting Around Affordably

Utilize local public buses for short distances. They are very inexpensive.
Use ride-sharing apps like PickMe and Uber for tuk-tuks and cars. They offer fixed and often lower prices compared to street negotiations.
Walk when possible in pedestrian-friendly areas. This conserves funds and uncovers hidden spots.

Lodging Alternatives

Explore various options to suit your budget and preferences.

Budget-Friendly Stays

Stay in hostels with dorms or private rooms, often the most budget-friendly choices.
Consider guesthouses slightly outside the main tourist zones for more affordable rates, still well-connected by transport.

Value Additions

Look for properties where breakfast is included in the rate, reducing your daily food expenditure.

Optimal Visit Times

Galle Face Green: Best in the late afternoon/evening for atmosphere and sunset. Avoid mid-day sun.
Pettah Market: Best in the morning when it is busy but not yet overly crowded. Avoid late afternoons, which can be chaotic.
Museums/Temples: Morning is generally less crowded and cooler for indoor exploration.

Accessing Attractions

Generally not applicable for most attractions in Colombo, as queues are rarely extensive. For popular day trips outside the city (e.g., Sigiriya), booking tours might save time, but for Colombo itself, walk-in is usually fine.

Local Insights

Gain a understanding of Colombo with these insider considerations.

Common Traveler Missteps

Not agreeing on a price before a tuk-tuk ride (if not using apps). Use PickMe/Uber to avoid this.
Drinking tap water; stick strictly to bottled or purified water.
Ignoring modesty at temples; always cover shoulders and knees.
Overpaying for gems; purchase only from reputable, certified dealers.

Local Customs

The "head wobble" or "side-to-side nod": This common gesture might mean "yes," "maybe," or "I understand." Context helps decipher its meaning.
Public displays of affection are generally discouraged.
Always use your right hand when giving or receiving items, especially food or money, as the left hand is considered unclean.

Unofficial Norms

Patience: Things might move at a slower pace than you expect. Embrace the relaxed attitude.
A smile is welcoming: Sri Lankans are generally friendly. A smile can open doors and ease interactions.
Avoid sensitive discussions: Political topics can be sensitive with strangers.

Phrases That Impress

Ayubowan (ah-yu-BO-wan) – Hello/May you live long
Istuti (is-TOO-tee) – Thank you
Kohomada? (koh-ho-MAH-dah) – How are you?
Hari! (HAH-ree) – Okay!/Alright!

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Tailor your approach to Colombo based on your travel companions.

Solo Traveler Guidance

Colombo is generally safe for solo travelers. Use reputable ride-sharing apps at night.
Stay in hostels with common areas, join group tours, or attend local events to meet people.
Inform someone back home of your itinerary and consider carrying a Personal safety alarm.

Family-Friendly Adaptations

Activities: Focus on Viharamahadevi Park (playground), National Zoological Gardens (Dehiwala), Mount Lavinia Beach, and the Lotus Tower observation deck.
Food: Many hotels and mid-range restaurants cater to children. Rice and curry can be mild; ask for less chili.
Logistics: Consider private transport for comfort and flexibility. Pack plenty of snacks, sunscreen, and child-specific medication.
A Lightweight travel stroller could be helpful for younger children.

Group Travel Logistics

Pre-booking: For groups, book accommodation and private transport to ensure availability and coordination.
Tours: Consider booking organized group tours for day trips, as they manage logistics.
Restaurants: Restaurants generally accommodate groups, but reservations for larger groups at popular spots are advisable.

Accessibility Notes

Travelers with mobility needs plan carefully. Consider specialized transport and accommodation, as general infrastructure is not highly accessible.
Families with strollers might find uneven sidewalks a challenge.

Sun Protection for Families

If traveling with children, pack plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent. The tropical climate requires constant protection.

Time-Saving Tips

Optimize your itinerary to experience more of Colombo without feeling hurried.

Efficient Sightseeing

Optimize your schedule to experience locations without rush.

Smart Navigation

Plan your routes to minimize travel time between attractions.

Pre-Trip Planning

Confirm bookings in advance for a smooth and organized trip.

Considerations

Express Transportation Alternatives

Use the expressway for transfers to and from Bandaranaike International Airport to Colombo. This bypasses local traffic.
Ride-sharing cars (PickMe/Uber) are generally faster and more direct than buses for specific routes.

Efficient Routing Suggestions

Group attractions by geographical proximity. For example, explore the Fort and Pettah areas together.
Combine Cinnamon Gardens with the National Museum. Use Google Maps for route planning to minimize travel time between sites.

Offline Maps Essential

Download offline maps of Colombo on Google Maps before you arrive. This facilitates navigation even without a data connection.

Colombo Travel Hacks