Top 5 Things to Do in Colombo Sri Lanka – Experiencing a Captivating City

Culture lovers should undoubtedly take the opportunity to visit Colombo's renowned National Museum. Within this well-known institution which is housed within a magnificent building, you will encounter a remarkable selection of artefacts relating to the eventful history and culture of Sri Lanka. The biggest museum in the nation, the National Museum contains artworks, carvings and statues that are representative of the island nation's ancient history. Visitors will notice many exhibits relating to the royal era of the nation, including many relics once used by the royalty. You will also find a myriad of guns, swords and other items dating from Sri Lanka's colonial period.

The nation of Sri Lanka gained its independence from the colonial ruler Britain in the year 1948. The splendid Independence Memorial Hall in Colombo commemorates this important event and may be regarded as an important sightseeing attraction in the city. This massive stone edifice which is bordered by a tranquil garden is also a pleasant respite from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets of Colombo. You will see that this monument features traditional local architecture based on the design elements of Kandy's royal audience hall. Today this site is used for celebrations like those for the National Day as well as various religious occasions.

If you enjoy visiting religious attractions you should definitely visit the well-known Gangaramaya Temple which always makes a strong impression on the mind of the sightseer. Within this expansive temple compound, you will find features such as a museum, a library and a hall filled with the numerous gifts presented to the temple by the Buddhist faithful and various well-wishers. Visitors will notice a vast number of Buddha images within the temple compound made from different materials like golden metal, stone and plastic. Gangaramaya Temple also has many other features of interest, like a stuffed elephant that will catch the eye of the visitor.

After a busy day of sightseeing and shopping the popular Galle Face Green is a great place to relax, unwind and replenish your energies. Many Colombo residents, as well as foreign visitors, frequent this seaside park to spend some quality leisure time. Here you will find families and couples strolling about, walkers and joggers as well as young people flying kites and playing cricket and football. Galle Face Green is also an excellent place to admire the spectacular local sunset. A choice of accommodation to consider from which this attraction would be within easy reach would be Residence by Uga Escapes which may be considered to be one of the pleasingly located boutique hotels Colombo offers.

For an authentic local experience, there is nothing quite like strolling through the crowded lanes of Pettah, a traditional commercial area in Colombo. In this vibrant and animated part of the city, you will find shops and hawkers selling a remarkable selection of goods, such as clothing, footwear, bags, leather goods, electronics, toys, party items, stationery, fruits, vegetables and more. If all your walking has given you an appetite there is no need to worry as you will find a diverse selection of cafes and stalls where you can enjoy a snack and a drink. If you take the time to explore you will find some outstanding bargains in the lanes of Pettah.