Places to visit in Colombo

THE 30 BEST Things to Do in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Places to Visit in Colombo

Check out must-see sights and activities:
Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple, Mount Lavinia Beach, City Tours, Multi-day Tours. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Book these experiences for a close-up look at Colombo.


Top Attractions in Colombo

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Serene cultural site by a lake, showcasing Buddhist history through statues, antiquities, and a museum, enveloped by a peaceful atmosphere.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Vibrant seafront area with an array of street food and recreational activities. Enjoy picturesque views, evening kite-flying, and a lively local scene.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Explore Sri Lanka's past through artifacts, from the royal throne to textiles. Features cultural insights and a traditional cuisine outlet.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Historic complex in the fort district with a mix of dining and shopping amid colonial architecture, known for its relaxed ambiance and local cuisine.
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Modern shopping hub in a posh neighborhood, with a diverse range of shops, cinema, and an Indian Theatre, ideal for retail therapy and cultural entertainment.
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From quick jaunts to full-day outings.




*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travellers are saying

  • Bhashana Jayakody
    8 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Gangaramaya Temple, though not ancient, is an iconic modern temple in Colombo. Most of its funding comes from local residents and Sri Lankan donors worldwide. The Bodhi tree base was constructed with support from the 6th King of Bhutan, showcasing its international ties.

    The temple is popular among Colombo’s higher-income communities and is known for its museum-like interior, featuring historical artifacts, including Sri Lanka’s first Rolls-Royce car.

    Visitors should note there is an entrance fee of 500 LKR for foreigners.
    Written 24 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kekin2011
    Mumbai, India310 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We were here on an early Saturday morning. It was quite busy but in a good way. People were walking, exercising and sunbathing as well. Our hotel, Berjaya was right beside the beach and we had an over-bridge to reach the beach from our hotel (there was a train track under the bridge). There were a few restaurants that were literally on the beach itself.

    It's a fairly long beach. There were some watersports activities happening. I remember jet skiing. Although, we didn't do any.
    Written 31 January 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Nine Arch Travel & Tours sri lanka.
    Kandy, Sri Lanka468 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Bar Crawler at Galle Face offers an exciting and vibrant way to explore Colombo’s nightlife. The tour takes you through some of the best bars and pubs in the area, offering great drink specials and a lively social atmosphere. Galle Face, with its oceanfront views, provides a perfect backdrop for an enjoyable night out. Whether you're a local or tourist, this bar crawl is a fun way to meet new people, discover hidden gems, and experience the best of Colombo's nightlife.

    Written 5 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • LolaGo1
    Washington DC, DC6,618 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Located near the Lotus Tower, we visited this Hindu Temple next. Like any Hidu temples, we were asked to take off our shoes as soon as we entered the compound. I thought we would only take off our shoes when we enter inside the temples.

    We hurriedly took some pictures here and left. The ground is rough and hot for us to take off our shoes outside of the temples.