Think Colombo is all business by day and quiet by night? Think again because this is a city that never sleeps! When the sun dips low, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital shifts gears and transforms into a “playground” with everything from laidback to activity-filled pursuits.
Plan for Some Bar-hopping
There are lots of bars here, so you can visit several each night and find your faves. Of course, it helps to stay at a hotel like NH Collection Colombo, which has its own rooftop bar & lounge for cocktails amidst sunset views and live music at night. Also, head to the locale known as Park Street, where you can sip and mingle at Jazzebel or try some toddy at Uncle’s. Add Playtrix Sports Bar, Shoulders by Harpos or Eskobar, and you have got yourself a proper night out.
Go on Foodie Adventures
Bona fide foodies have lots to introduce to their taste buds, from local cuisine to international classics… it’s basically a world culinary tour in one city! From your Colombo city hotel, look to dine at AYU serving Sri Lankan and global dishes (it has a great Sunday brunch too), Adityaa for Indian cuisine and Thai Rasa for specialities from Thailand. There’s also Monsoon Colombo for Southeast Asian fare or The Bayleaf if you are craving Italian food.
Other hotspots include the food courts at malls like Colombo City Centre and One Galle Face and Galle Face Green for street food with sea views. Don’t forget the city has a diverse café culture too, with outlets from Java Lounge and Barista catering to those who need a caffeine fix!
Enjoy Fun Entertainment
If you fancy more than food and drinks, there’s more in store. Catch the latest blockbuster films at Scope Cinemas (at Liberty Cinema, Colombo City Centre or Havelock Mall) or PVR Cinemas (at Once Galle Face). If you are feeling lucky, try win big at Bally’s Casino Colombo or Bellagio Colombo.
At Counter Strike (Colombo City Centre), you can try bowling, racing simulators and arcade games, and at Playdium (One Galle Face), enjoy South Asia’s first Hologate VR, karaoke and bumper cars. Also, check what’s on at the Lionel Wendt Art Centre for an evening of theatre.
Dance the Night Away
Ready to hit the dance floor? The nightclubs in Colombo keep things lively with local and international DJs spinning everything from retro hits to house and more. Popular spots include Rhythm and Blues, The Chiller Room and Industri; check their social media pages to see if any special events are planned as well. For something different, some hotels organise sunset cruises, perfect if you want to join or host an exclusive yacht party… because honestly, dancing at sea just feels a bit more legendary!
