Top 5 Leisure Parks in Colombo - Colombo's Best Green Spaces

The area first came into existence during the Dutch colonisation when the Dutch cleared the land to give a clear firing path for their cannons within the Fort. The promenade was later created by a British governor for the women and children of Colombo in 1859. Even today, the evenings at the Green are packed with families that have come to enjoy a walk. Kite flying is another popular activity in this area. It is also a great place to sample one of Colombo's favourite snacks; the isso wade which is a prawn fritter. If you are based in any of the many Colombo hotels such as the Berjaya Hotel Colombo, you are within half an hour of the Galle Face Green.

This park is best known as the Nawala 'Weli' Park or the Nawala Sand Park which refers to the sand on the park's many walking paths. This was established as a government initiative to revitalise the area. A river runs along the edge of one part of the park and this is also a great place to spot water birds during the day. There is also a floating restaurant close by if you get tired of walking and prefer to cruise along the river instead.

Viharamahadevi Park is hard to miss as you drive around Colombo. Situated opposite the Town Hall, this expansive park is one of the largest green spaces in the city. Viharamahadevi was named after the mother of a Sri Lankan king and the park was initially established during British occupation as Victoria Park. There are many food vendors dotted along the fringes of the park, so you can try a wide variety of snacks. It is centrally located so a quick stop at the park will not throw off your schedule.

Yet another one of the government's beautification projects, this beautiful park is located in Battaramulla. At this park, you have unparalleled views of the lake nearby. There are many walking paths in the area and benches for you to catch your breath. Due to its proximity to the lake, this is yet another place to view water birds. There are a few attractions in the area such as 3D art on the floor so do not forget your camera!

This is another new park in Colombo which allows you to escape to nature. Situated close to the new Parliament complex, this wonderful wetland park cuts through the Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte Bird Sanctuary. If you are a nature lover, you will be enjoy seeing Sri Lanka's endemic birds, butterflies and other animals. If you visit the park from August to April, you are likely to see several varieties of migrant birds.