Colombo – the capital of Sri Lanka that has risen up from the civil war of the 1990s – is now a dynamic city blending colonial heritage with modern innovation. This place is perfect to start if you want to get closer to the heart of Sri Lanka. Whether you’re looking for bustling streets or savoring local cuisine, a Colombo tour will bring it all together. Doubt it? Hop on and join Absolute Asia Tours on this journey to explore Colombo!
Dive Into Colombo’s History and Architecture
As you may know, Colombo has long been a key trading hub, deeply influenced by Portuguese, Dutch, and British settlers. Therefore, your Sri Lanka tour may not be complete without a visit to the iconic Fort area. Once home to a Portuguese fortress, this central district now re-enacts British colonial architecture for some virtual history knowledge. We recommend you to stroll past the neoclassical Old Parliament Building, the stately General Post Office, and the historic Cargills & Millers Building.
Uncover Colombo’s Markets and Street Life
Prepare to get lost in the vibrant atmosphere of Pettah Market, the largest one in Sri Lanka. Some of the streets specialize in spices, some others sell textiles only,.. All combine to create a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and scents. You can freely explore the labyrinthine of the streets by yourself, or hop on a guided tour to navigate more easily and buy unique wood apple fruit!
Nearby is the “mini-Dubai of Asia”, bustling Colombo Port District offers a fascinating juxtaposition of history and modernity. Don’t miss the chance to take pictures of its skyscrapers rising alongside century-old warehouses!
Immerse in the Cultural Attractions of Colombo
Colombo’s temples are known to be among the most distinctive ones in Sri Lanka. At Gangaramaya Temple, you’ll find a striking collection of donations from devotees, ranging from gold ingots to life-size toy elephants. Nearby, Seema Malakaya, located on Bere Lake, offers a serene escape with its photogenic Buddha statues. Absolute Asia Tours recommends you to visit this spot in the evening to see the beautifully illuminated temple with lights.
Relax and Indulge
No Colombo tour packages are complete without a stop at Galle Face Green, we promise. This coastal lawn has been a gathering place for locals since Victorian times. They would enjoy flying kites, street food, or simply soaking in the sea breeze…
For food lovers, Colombo’s dining scene is irresistible. Imagine looking down from the rooftop, enjoying fine dining at intimate sushi bars like Nihonbashi, you will adore the city night view in the best way. To level up your dinner, pair it with a cup of Ceylon tea for a truly Sri Lankan experience.
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Sri Lanka ⟩ Sigiriya
Sri Lanka ⟩ Negombo
Sri Lanka ⟩ Jaffna
Sri Lanka ⟩ Hatton
Sri Lanka ⟩ Uda Walawe
Sri Lanka ⟩ Nuwara Eliya and Tea Country
Sri Lanka ⟩ Kandy
Sri Lanka ⟩ East Coast
Sri Lanka ⟩ Minneriya National Park
Sri Lanka ⟩ Galle
Sri Lanka ⟩ Colombo
Sri Lanka ⟩ Cultural Triangle