Joanna James
Colombo, being the commercial capital of the island, is also the largest metropolitan city in Sri Lanka. Despite the bustle, there are a few parks in the city to escape to. Here are 5.
It was formerly known as the Victoria Park and is the oldest and largest one in Colombo. It was named after Queen Victoria in the beginning as it was built on a land that was donated by Charles Henry de Soysa during the British rule. However, it was later on named after Queen Viharamahadevi.
The park has a series of water fountains, a large Buddha statue and has a children's play area. There is also an open theatre that was installed recently, where many events take place.
It is located right near the National Museum, should you feel like taking a peek.
While it is not exactly a park per say, it is a public area situated facing the Indian Ocean. Space accommodates many street food stalls where you can enjoy a few local delicacies like pol roti (coconut flatbread) and prawn wades (a fried snack with prawns). It is usually crowded in the evening from those who come to jog, bring their children to fly kites and enjoy the city sunset.
The park is situated right in the middle of the commercial hub surrounding many a hotel in Colombo. Sri Lanka is known for its beaches and the best beach in the city is in Mount Lavinia, about 10km south of Colombo, which is about a 30minutes ride away. A popular landmark is the Berjaya Hotel Colombo, located only a hop, step and a jump away from the sandy beach.
It is an urban park located in Battaramulla near the New Parliament Complex and the Lake Diyawanna. There are many stalls during the days where many locals head to buy plants and organic food from during the weekdays. There is a permanent line of food stalls as well and cement chairs and tables where you could sit and enjoy a local meal from. The park also has a jogging track where most families bring their children and pets for a walk.
It is located in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, the administrative Capital of Colombo, and a few minutes away from Diyatha Uyana. This park has many walking paths, perfect for an evening stroll. The park is also home to many regional birds and wildlife making this park perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Situated in Cinnamon Gardens, this is an open space surrounding the Independence Memorial. The park has walking paths, bicycle tracks and a free public gym. There are bicycles available for rent for a minimal price as well. One could also visit the memorial or have a picnic on the grass. Please do ensure that you don't pollute the space.
The park is behind the Arcade Independence, a shopping precinct with local designer boutiques, a cinema, pubs and restaurants.
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