FUN Things To Do in Colombo!

One of the simpler things in life, and an underrated pleasure. While it does get very crowded at times, what with families and the famous umbrella-touting couples, this is one activity which will not rip a hole in your wallet. You can engage in some people watching, and savour some treats from the vendors (isso wade, amiright?). If you go on time, you can catch a glimpse of a breathtaking sunset over the ocean.

If you prefer some alone time with your thoughts, there are parks within Colombo where you can go and enjoy just that. The most popular is Viharamahadevi Park, a haven for young couples, where you can spend hours sitting beneath a tree with a good book or your favourite music. If you prefer a more active park visit, you can check out Diyatha Uyana, which offers a slightly more exciting experience, with shops and stalls.

Colombo is, by no means, flush with ice cream parlours. However, on hot days (or cold ones, we don't judge!), there are still quite a few ice cream joints you can try out over the course of a weekend. Apart from the landmark Carnival Ice Cream house in Colpetty, there are newer ice cream parlours such as Rio Ice Cream, Isle of Gelato, Il Gelato, Jolly's Ice Cream and the good ol' Baskin Robbins. Considering the ice cream capacity of a human, we would hazard a guess that this would be sufficient.

For all you organic-lovers, the Good Market is the place for you. Found at the Colombo Racecourse on Saturdays, the Good Market is your go-to place for unique treats, crafts and experiences. While nothing here is exactly cheap, you can find some interesting coconut-shell or batik trinkets and even try out some amazing food straight from home kitchens. There are massages, dreamcatchers, batik print garments, books, Sri Lankan food, dessert, and a lot more to be found here. You can safely while away an hour or more at the Good Market.

The Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct is home to a lot of tourist-y attractions. But it's also a great spot to get a drink and immerse yourself in Colombo nightlife. There are a variety of pubs and restaurants in the vicinity (easily up to 15, such Exchange, Taphouse, Botanik, Next Innings, TGIF), with great deals on drinks and a range of different types of cuisine. Dutch Hospital is also a popular location for events and food festivals. On weekends, there is usually live music and a very enthusiastic crowd.

Another slightly expensive option, but there are few cheaper options which might suprise you. Sri Lankans love their high teas, the whole experience. Some places offer buffet or plated service, the price depending on the the establishment rather than value for money. If you are a buffet fanatic, you must try out the Kingsbury high tea, probably the best high tea in Colombo, along with the Galadari Hotel one. All other hotels and more restaurants and cafes offer high tea, each with their own signature twist - make sure to try them all.

There are a lot of interesting events happening in Colombo, from mental health awareness workshops and art festivals, to quiz nights and food festivals. You can browse through Yamu.lk or the Facebook events section to stay up to date on local events, which are a great way to meet like-minded people in Colombo.

If you like science and history, a visit to a museum or the planetarium will definitely be right up your alley. There are a number of interesting museums in Colombo where you can check out various things. You can find out more information on the official museum website of Sri Lanka. The planetarium is another timeless attraction where entrance is very cheap. Don't expect state of the art comforts - instead, prepare yourself for a very vintage astronomical experience.