Joanna James
The gateway to the paradise isle of Sri Lanka, Colombo is a wonderous city harmoniously blending plush malls and modern architecture with heritage buildings well preserved from the colonial era, offering a diverse yet unique experience to the curious visitor.
The heart of the commercial capital Colombo, Fort is home to the Sri Lanka Stock Exchange (CSE). Visiting Fort is ideal as a walking tour due to limited parking facilities and traffic congestion during weekdays and the places of interest being around with proximity. The CSE is at the tallest building in the country, the modern World Trade Centre not far from your luxury hotel Colombo. Just a few yards down the road check out Cargills Colombo an Iconic building with a brick red and white façade, the residence of a dutch Military Commander now operated by the Cargills supermarket chain still maintaining the heritage status. The Central Bank of Sri Lanka, the Colombo Lighthouse and Clock Tower and many other heritage buildings with old architecture can be viewed at close quarters. Finish off the tour with the beverage of your choice at the former Dutch Hospital now an exclusive precinct with reputed restaurants.
An oasis in the busy city of Colombo, this 19th century Buddhist Temple attracts visitors to experience the serenity as you walk in and especially around the sacred Bo tree. A Bo tree has a special significance to Buddhists as Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under a similar tree. Additionally, this temple beholds a museum with many Buddhist statues, artefacts and local cultural items. Being a place of worship modest dress and demeanour is appreciated and is observed by guests at hotels such as Cinnamon Grand Colombo.
A symbolic building to mark the Independence of Sri Lanka in 1948, this square is used for the Annual Independence Day celebrations. It is also a favourite location due to open spaces, inviting greenery, wide walkways, cycling paths which have been created in the vicinity in later years. The 'Arcade' is a series of renovated old government buildings around Independence Square having artistically created lawns and soothing fountains housing shops and restaurants, a trendy place to hang out. This duo keeps attracting locals and visitors throughout the year.
Use from standard packages offered or a specially curated one based on your specific need to de-stress, refresh or revitalize yourself. Most of the reputed Spas provide special well being and beauty treatment of a holistic nature using authentic natural ingredients and treatment methods using well trained and experienced staff.
Established in 1877, the National Museum is at a prime and convenient location in Colombo. The two-storied magnificent white building stands on a well-maintained garden with mighty banyan trees adding majesty and shade. Home to multitudes of artefacts, paintings, carvings, statues, royal thrones, a crown, royal clothing and many other items of historical and cultural value, and for art lovers, there is a gallery displaying 19th-century replicas of English paintings of Sri Lanka. Plan to spend some time at this interesting museum.
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.
