Tourism and Sightseeing in Colombo

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Tourist Offices in Colombo

Main tourist offices are situated at the Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake, and at Head Office in Colombo. There are other offices at Kandy and along the Southern Expressway.

They offer tourists all kinds of support for your trip and stay in Sri Lanka concerning lodging, attractions, sight-seeing, etc. Free literature, brochures and maps can be had at these offices.

No. 80, Tourist Information Office,
Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Colombo 03
Contact No : +94 112426800 /+94 112426900 (Hotline: 1912)
Email : welcome@srilanka.travel
Website: www.srilanka.travel/public_relations/PR_tourism_info_centre.php

Sightseeing in Colombo

Needless to say, Sri Lanka is a sight-seeing haven. You can do wildlife safaris, visit ancient Buddhist ruins, see natural wonders, pilgrim stops, beaches. Here are a few top attractions in Colombo:

Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo
This important Buddhist temple is made up of several different buildings. There is a library, museum, display hall of gifts, and many zen-like buddhas. Admire the fine brass, stone carvings, and Buddhist art

Pettah
This chaotic quarter of markets and stalls that run on and on is a fascinating place to bargain and experience life in Colombo. Watch your step and your purse as it is crowded with vehicles and people.

Independence Memorial Hall in Colombo

Sri Lanka has struggled to gain its independence and stability, and this regal stone building commemorates their independence from Britain in 1948. The statue out front is of the country's first prime minister, Rt. Hon. Don Stephen Senanayake known as "Father of the Nation". This is the site of many religious events and national celebration.

Galle Face Green

This stretch of lawn is the perfect place to enjoy the sea and go for a walk. Locals gather to picnic, do an after-meal stroll, fly a kite and generally relax. If you haven't eaten, it is usually packed with vendors selling street food even after dark. It is also the ideal location to watch the sunset in the city.

Old Dutch Hospital
Once of the oldest remaining buildings, the hospital cates back to the Dutch colonial era of 1681. Today, it is a place to shop and eat at the many stores and restaurants.

Dehiwala Zoological Garden
The city zoo is a fun-filled site for the whole family. It sits in nearly 30 acres of landscaped gardens.

Beira Lake
If you want to escape the noise of the city, this peaceful lake is the place to do that. There are boat rentals and canals that reach out into the city to the Indian Sea. Within the lake sits an island with the Simamalaka Shrine.

Leisure World in Colombo
Sri Lanka's first amusement and water park features all the attractions to amuse a family in need of some fun. There are roller coasters and kids' rides, as well as water attractions

Tours in Sri Lanka

Tailored to suit your needs, you can either choose a pre-planned tour package or you could build one, with a travel agent, as per your requirements and duration of stay. There are many English-speaking options.

Tour agents or operators can be private or public. Sri Lankan Tourism offers tours and package deals as well. In order to get the best deal, check the sites or go to their offices.

Festivals in Sri Lanka

Festivals in Sri Lanka reflect its ethnic diversity and cultural richness. There are Buddhist, Sinhala, Hindu/Tamil, Muslim, Christian festivals, celebrated with equal enthusiasm and gaiety.

Some of these festivals are:

  • Perahara – Impressive parade celebrating Buddhist heritage
  • Duruthu Poya
  • Thai Pongal
  • Maha Shivarathri – Festival of Shiva
  • Diwali
  • Medin Poya
  • Good Friday
  • Sinhala and Tamil New Year
  • Bak Poya
  • Vesak Poya
  • Hikkaduwa Beach Festival
  • Galle Literary Festival

To know more about these colourful and vibrant celebrations, read up at:
http://www.srilanka.travel/festive

Discounts

Tourist attractions do not generally offer any discounts on entrance tickets.

What you can do is to look out for the best tour package deals or negotiate for one with a travel agent. Using a Mastercard or booking online is also cheaper at times.

Update 22/07/2018


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