05 Must Visit Places in Colombo – Cosmopolitan Hub

Located at Cinnamon Gardens in Colombo 7, the Independence Day commemoration square was erected in honour of Sri Lanka gaining Independence from the British in 1948. The square is a Kandyan era style open hall,resplendent with many stone pillars; these are carved with traditional motifs that bear cultural values. The most impressive are the stone lion figures that are found at the front of the square while the surrounding parklands, jogging and cycling tracks make this a favoured precinct for locals to relax, workout and enjoy the cool evenings.

The Colombo National Museum is quite a treat to explore. Located within an Italian styled colonial mansion the place was founded by then British Governor, Sir William Henry Gregory. This is the oldest and largest museum in Colombo, well located within close proximity to many luxury hotels in Colombo. Within you will come across a range of artefacts that total to a staggering 100,000 items. History buffs will love the old library housing a collection of rare historical books and manuscripts. There are periodical seminars and lectures conducted at the museum which specialises in the study of anthropology, ethnology, arts,crafts and ancient culture.

Located close to Galle Face in Colombo 1, the Colombo Lighthouse adds some lustre to your historical scout of Colombo. Initially set up as a clock tower in 1860 the tower housed a clock made by the same manufacturers of Big Ben in London; sadly this was replaced in 1913. It was in 1865 that with the addition of a lantern the clock tower transformed into a lighthouse; guiding ships to the Colombo harbour. Now the lighthouse only functions as a clock tower and is the world's only lighthouse with a clock tower – located in the middle of busy Colombo streets.

Colombo is influenced by the Kelani River, one of the 4 main rivers servicing Sri Lanka. There were many canals set up around the city by the colonist; of these the 160 acre Beira Lake is most impressive. Flowing besides the likes of the Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo this lake precinct is where Colombo hosts its regattas as well as dramatic theatrical performances. On the Beira Lake is the Gangaramaya Temple; one of Colombo's most beautiful temples – especially when lit up at night.

Also known as the Victoria Park this huge expanse of parkland is a sanctuary right smack in the middle of the city. The park is an oasis in the centre of the busy Cinnamon Gardens precinct. It offers shady trees, lush water fountains and wide open spaces to rest, relax and rejuvenate. Kids will love the open gym and small zoo while cycling and jogging tracks provide plenty of leisure activities.