Joanna James
When in Colombo, many sites will appear appealing regardless of where your gaze focuses on, and provided below is a list of tourist attractions that are well worth spending time at.
One of the newer additions to Colombo's gleaming skyline is the impressive Lotus Tower. Credited as being the tallest freestanding structure in all of South Asia, the Tower rises to an imposing 368 meters in the air and can be seen from all parts of the metropolis. While its design incorporates a lotus flower, the structure features a dazzling collection of value additions. These include a shopping mall at its base, indoor & outdoor observation sections, a revolving fine dining restaurant and a telecom museum for the viewing pleasure of the present-day globetrotter.
Happen to possess a deep fascination about the make up of our solar system and the study of stars? Then make your way towards the inviting grounds of the University of Colombo where the well-equipped Sri Lanka Planetarium is located. With a firm focus on educating patrons on the minute details of stars, planets and whatnot through a range of exhibits and programmes, the Planetarium comprises 570 eats within a large auditorium.
Colombo is a city that thrives on diversity and features prominently amongst the numerous green spaces strewn throughout its vicinity is the popular Viharamahadevi Park. Named after one of Sri Lanka's ancient queens, Viharamahadevi Park is often at the heart of quiet meanders, family picnics and many a happy occasion. Kids are presented with an excellent opportunity to play and have a whale of a time at the playground situated here while adults can take time to appreciate the Park's varying features. The war memorial statue also termed as the 'Cenotaph,' the public library and the 15 foot tall Buddha statue hewn out of pure brass will likely stir one's curiosity into staying here for that much longer.
The area of Pettah is a beehive of activity with public transportation networks and local markets underpinning its appeal. Located on a canal with sidewalks and wooden boardwalks flanking same is the Pettah Floating Market. Once here, you may move through the colours and hues of eye-catching fabrics, electronics, jewellery while a slew of restaurants afford hungry travellers a chance to sample local favourites and a chilled beverage. The Market opens its doors daily from 8 am to 8 pm and come evening, it is a favourite place to capture scenes of how life unfolds in these parts.
Catch a train from the Colombo Fort Railway Station and beeline in the direction of one of the city's iconic suburbs; Mount Lavinia. Considered a great alternative to staying in the city, the area of Mount Lavinia and its shoreline will warmly welcome beachgoers and leisure seekers alike. For starters, you can swim, play a game of cricket or tag rugby before settling down to a hearty meal of seafood at one of the beach's many restaurants. The sunsets are stunning and thus, do factor this into your itinerary. Also, for those thinking of heading over to Colombo in the not-too-distant future and seeking good accommodation, make note of Mandarina Colombo which is one of the best hotels in Colombo from where such attractions can be easily reached.
Be awed by scenes of brightly-coloured railway carriages, train tracks and age-old locomotives that have stood the test of time at the National Railway Museum. Found near the Maradana Railway Station, this open-air museum deserves more than a casual glance should you find yourself scouring regions in and around Pettah.
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.
