Absolute Asia/Destinations/Sri Lanka/Places to Visit/Colombo

Curated Destination Guide

Private Journeys in Colombo

The Essence of Colombo

Stroll through the colonial streets of Fort and Pettah, visit the iconic Gangaramaya Temple, and enjoy the views from Galle Face Green.

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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Places to Visit

Top Places to Visit in Colombo

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Your Route Through Colombo

Colombo, charted by hand

When to Go

Tailor-Made Journey Guidance

Speak to a Travel Specialist

Every journey is private, tailor-made, and planned around your pace, interests, and preferred style of travel. Connect with a destination specialist to begin designing your itinerary.

Emily Watson
Emily WatsonSenior Asia Specialist

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