Colombo

Colombo, the port city, the capital of Sri Lanka has an amazing and intriguing colonial heritage. Situated on the west coast of the island, it is a rich mix of cultures, races and religions and shows the best and worst the country has on offer. A contrast in itself, this eccentric city is dotted with beautiful lush gardens, palatial mansions, amazing gastronomic adventures, shopping malls and centers who show off expensive designer apparel and accessories combined with congested roads and street shops. Despite being a meager 37 square kms in size, it offers an amazing range of authentic Sri Lankan experiences such as hair raising Tuk Tuk rides, the Pettah bazaar, a quiet round of golf, high tea at the colonial hotels on the edge of the Indian Ocean and our very own mouthwatering, sweat inducing not for the faint hearted Kottu Rotty! A plethora of boutiques stocked full of international brands, local products such as fabrics and arts, it is the best place to do your last minute shopping.

Many not to be missed activities exist for the intrepid traveler. The very welcoming and manicured golf greens of the Royal Colombo Golf Club have been attracting golfing enthusiasts of all ages for the past 145 years. You do not have to be a member of this club to play. The city tour on board the unexpected open deck double decker bus which cruises the city on a preset path exploring the whims and fancies of Colombo is also a not to be missed attraction. Great seafood restaurants which dot the palm fringed beaches of Colombo beckon the gastronomist in you. Sleek and chic department stores offer some of the best shopping opportunities in South Asia. These are filled with amazing designer clothes, accessories such as handbags, shoes and jewelry, Handicrafts and so much more. Amazing spas offer massages and treatments to those who like treating themselves to these luxurious indulgences.

The National Museum offers an insight into Sri Lankan history and life and showcases amazing displays of ancient art, monuments, historical artefacts and archeological finds. A visit would deepen your understanding of Sri Lanka and what it considers as art. The Gangaramaya Temple is also a not to be missed site when visiting Colombo. One of the most venerable places of worship on the island, it is adorned with amazing brass work, stone carvings and art. The ambiance takes you to an alternate realm in existence abounding in spirituality. Colombo is also endowed with numerous bars for those wishing to chill out in the evenings, casinos for the more adventurous who have no qualms in trying their hand at roulette, blackjack and more. Finally, not for the faint hearted or gastronomically challenged, the awe inspiring, sweat inducing, quintessential Sri Lankan dish of Kottu Rotty consisting of chopped up rotty, spicy curry, onions, tomatoes, chillies, sauces and herbs blended together on a flat pan to the rhythm of the chef’s “Kottu”. Colombo is indeed delightfully decadent and you will not regret the decision to experience its many flavors and styles. No visit to Sri Lanka is ever complete without a visit to Colombo.