Joanna James
Colombo is a city that has come up beautifully in the past few years and is now home to lots of skyscrapers, apartments, hotels, malls, cinemas and restaurants. Hidden under all that metropolitan glamour are small relics of history as well located in between. Here are a few cool things to do in Colombo.
The big white edifice that looks like it could probably be the museum in Colombo is indeed the National Museum in the city. The structure was set up back in 1876 by the Governor of Sri Lanka at the time and today is home to a number of important relics. Visit and you'll get the chance to see one of the old golden thrones of the royal family that once rule along with the king's sword and crown. They certainly look grand! You'll find a lot of other displays as well that catch your interest.
If you are wondering what Colombo 01 is all about, the city has been divided into 13 zones for administrative purposes. Colombo 01 is the centre and is called Fort. It is full of colonial-style buildings from the time for British rule. The Dutch Hospital is one of the main attractions here. A place that was once a hospital is now a place where people hang out with friends for the evening. There are several bars and restaurants here to hit. The President's House and various ministries are also found in the centre of Colombo.
This temple is in the heart of Colombo and is one of the most religious sites where the local devotees in the area often visit. Inside the temple are a library, a museum and even a hall displaying gifts received from the faithful. There is also a stuffed elephant here which you will find astonishing! There is a massive number of Buddha statues made of stone, gold and white plastic. The entire temple comes to life in February when the Navam Poya is around the corner. There is a great religious parade that takes place and you can witness it all if you happen to visit at this time.
This lake is just in front of Gangaramaya Temple and is very calm and quiet. There are large trees that provide shade and breeze, perfect for an evening stroll. There is also a small deck that stretches out into the lake with Buddha statues and a meditating room of sorts. Colombo City Centre is a mall that is just walking distance from this lake.
If you are staying at a Residence by Uga Escapes which one of the hotels in Colombo, then the best way to get around the city would be by tuk-tuk. This is a unique method of transport in Sri Lanka, the vehicle can even creep through traffic and get you to your destination in the least amount of time. It is quite a thrilling street ride.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
