Like most cosmopolitan Asian cities, Colombo in Sri Lanka has a fascinating mix of tradition & technology, relaxation & retail therapy and culture & culinary delights. There is much to discover here, in the country’s commercial capital. In Colombo, things to see and do are never in short supply and whether you are travelling alone, with the family or that special someone, there is always something new to experience.
In order to get the best out of Colombo, you need to look to visit some of its highlights be it for relaxation, culture, dining, nightlife or entertainment. One of the must visit sites would definitely be Galle Face Green. Ideally located beside the coast, this open-air stretch is immensely popular with locals especially on the weekends. Set amidst a backdrop of the city and up and coming residential projects such as One Galle Face, this area by the Indian Ocean is the perfect place to unwind, fly kites or have a picnic. You can even try some street food specialities be it “isso wade” (a deep fried prawn based snack) or kottu rotti (made from chopped up rotti).
Look to visit the National Museum which offers insights into the island’s history and heritage, while also plan to stop by at the Seema Malaka Buddhist temple ideally located amidst the waters of the Beira Lake.
Of course, no trip to Colombo comes without getting in some retail therapy. Majestic City and Crescat Boulevard are the two main malls in the city and offer everything from clothing to electronics. They both have food courts with many options, while Majestic City or “MC” as it is commonly known, has a four-screen cinema complex showing the latest Hollywood and Bollywood movies.
Another place that is very much a part of Colombo’s signature “character” is the area known as Pettah. This colourful and always lively part of the city is pretty much like one huge open-air shopping bazaar; its maze of streets and lanes are packed with shops and vendors offering almost every conceivable item for sale and you never know what hidden treasures or deals you may uncover.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
