Colombo Sri Lanka Travel Guide
Engage deeply with Sri Lankan culture through various workshops and performances.
Several independent chefs and boutique hotels in Colombo offer Sri Lankan cooking classes. Learn to prepare traditional curries, sambols, and 'short eats'.
Some galleries or community centers offer short workshops on local crafts, batik art, or painting. Inquire locally for availability.
Short introductory Sinhala language classes may be available through private tutors or language schools in Colombo.
Some cultural performances may involve fire or sharp objects; follow safety instructions.
Colombo offers many options for relaxation and rejuvenation after a day of exploring.
Some studios in Colombo offer drop-in yoga classes for various levels. Dedicated, multi-day yoga and meditation retreats are generally located outside the city, often in the highlands or coastal areas.
Many luxury hotels in Colombo have impressive swimming pools, often with pool bars and sun loungers. Mount Lavinia Hotel, just south of the city, has a popular beach club area.
For a relaxing beach read, consider a Kindle e-reader.
Many upscale hotels feature beautiful swimming pools for a refreshing dip or sunbathing.
Mount Lavinia Beach provides a convenient coastal getaway for seaside relaxation and dining.
Luxury spas and wellness centers provide a range of treatments with high service standards.
Colombo's nightlife offers a growing range of entertainment options.
A growing number of nightclubs and discos cater to various music tastes, mainly in Colombo 3 (Kollupitiya) and Colombo 7 (Cinnamon Gardens). They feature local and international DJs.
Areas like Park Street Mews and Galle Face have concentrations of bars and pubs. These are popular spots for an evening out. You can join a pub crawl or simply hop between venues.
Casinos are present in Colombo. Upscale hotels often have late-night bars or lounges that remain open later than other establishments.
Some upscale venues may have a dress code; inquire beforehand if unsure.
Use ride-hailing apps for safe and reliable transport, especially late at night.
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.
Colombo is a shopper's paradise, from bustling traditional markets to modern luxury malls.
World-renowned black tea. Available in various brands, blends, and packaging. Consider a Gift set of Ceylon tea.
Cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and black pepper are excellent quality. Batik Fabric and Clothing: Hand-dyed fabrics with intricate designs. Wooden Masks, Elephants, and Carvings: Traditional items reflecting Sri Lankan folklore.
Sri Lanka is famous for sapphires, rubies, and other precious stones. Buy only from reputable, certified jewelers for authenticity.
Avoid purchasing items made from endangered species to support ethical tourism.
While Colombo is a city, some outdoor activities are available, and day trips unlock more adventurous options.
Mount Lavinia Beach, a short drive south, offers some water sports. These include jet skiing and banana boat rides.
Local fishing trips can be arranged from coastal areas near Colombo, providing a glimpse into traditional fishing methods.
White-water rafting (Kitulgala) or rock climbing are not typically found within Colombo and require travel outside the city.
Factor in travel time and traffic when planning day trips from Colombo.
