Colombo, Sri Lanka

15 Best Things to Do in Colombo

What actually deserves your hours in Colombo, ranked by the travelers who went.

Ranked by traveler review volume across 48 places we track in Colombo. Updated monthly.

  1. Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple

    Religious site

    Gangaramaya is one of Colombo's most important and eclectic Buddhist temples, a working temple, monastery, and museum rolled into one, famous for its astonishing accumulation of treasures and curiosities.

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  2. Galle Face Green

    Park & natureFree entry

    Galle Face Green is Colombo's beloved oceanfront promenade, a long stretch of open lawn and seawall along the Indian Ocean, and the city's favourite gathering place, especially at sunset and in the evening.

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  3. Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

    MarketFree entry

    The Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, also known as the Old Dutch Hospital, is a historic building in Colombo's Fort area that has been transformed into a vibrant hub of boutiques, restaurants, and cafés.

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  4. Independence Square

    LandmarkFree entry

    Independence Square, officially Independence Memorial Hall, is a landmark in Colombo's Cinnamon Gardens area. It commemorates Sri Lanka's independence from British rule in 1948.

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  5. Independence Memorial Hall

    LandmarkFree entry

    Independence Memorial Hall, also known as Independence Commemoration Hall, is a prominent landmark located in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

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  6. Colombo Walks

    Landmark

    Colombo Walks offers immersive guided tours that explore the vibrant heart of Sri Lanka's capital.

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  7. Laksala

    MarketFree entry

    Laksala is a government-owned handicraft store located on Bauddhaloka Mawatha in Colombo, known for its extensive collection of traditional Sri Lankan crafts.

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  8. Salie's Fine Jewelry & Gem Stones

    MarketFree entry

    Salie's Fine Jewelry & Gem Stones is a premier destination for jewelry lovers in Colombo, located on bustling Galle Road.

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  9. Colombo City Walks

    Landmark

    Colombo City Walks offers curated walking tours that reveal the layered history and vibrant street life of Sri Lanka's capital.

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  10. Jewel Qudsi

    MarketFree entry

    Jewel Qudsi is a renowned jewelry store located at 46-B Galle Road in Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.

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  11. Number 11

    MuseumFree entry

    Number 11 is a contemporary art gallery located on Bagatelle Road in Colombo 3, housed in a beautifully restored colonial-era bungalow.

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  12. CHI, The Spa

    Sight

    CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La Hotel Colombo is a serene sanctuary overlooking the Indian Ocean. The spa draws inspiration from ancient Asian healing traditions, offering treatments like Ayurvedic massages, facials, and hydrotherapy.

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  13. I Drive Sri Lanka

    Sight

    I Drive Sri Lanka provides a unique way to explore the island nation, combining private transportation with the expertise of a local driver-guide.

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  14. In on the Green

    SightFree entry

    In on the Green is a unique dining and leisure venue located within the iconic Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

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  15. Good Market

    MarketFree entry

    Good Market is a lively weekend gathering held at the historic Colombo Racecourse, bringing together local farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs.

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The full picture, restaurants included, lives in the categories below.

Attractions & sights

Landmarks, museums, neighborhoods

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Off the beaten path

4 hidden gems in Colombo

Like Sri Lankan Holiday Trip and Aashkii, loved by reviewers, skipped by tour groups.

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Costs nothing

15 free things to do in Colombo

Verified free entry, Galle Face Green included.

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Best things to do in Sri Lanka
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