Joanna James
Colombo the commercial capital of Sri Lanka is a fascinating blend of old and new. The diverse lifestyles, the merging of old and new and of course the hustle and bustle make it a fascinating South Asian city to explore. Here are seven cool places to visit in Colombo.
Listed as one of the tallest free-standing columns in Asia, the Lotus Tower represents its name. Built to resemble a lotus flower on a tall stalk the tower is 368 metres high. Hence, the view from the top is quite impressive offering you a bird's eye view of the surroundings all the way to the Indian Ocean. Inside is a shopping mall as well as a telecom museum. Included is a revolving restaurant while the top made to resemble a lotus bloom is lit up with lights that pulsate to a sequence giving off quite the show.
Located just a hop step and jump away from the best Colombo city hotels, in case you are wondering about where to stay in Colombo, the Colombo Museum is only a few minutes from Cinnamon Red Colombo. On a cool day, you may even enjoy walking to the museum. Housed inside a vintage Roman villa the museum houses over 100,000 artefacts and is one of the most informative places to learn about the island's past and its beginnings. Plenty of artefacts tell a story of a rich nation, a proud heritage and people that have adapted to many hardships and changes over time.
The park originally established by the British colonists was named Victoria Park, however, the place is now named after an illustrious Sri Lankan Queen—Viharamaha Devi. A beautiful wooded area that sits right smack in the middle of a square the park is like a magical land which you can go to when you need a break from the noise and crowds of Colombo's streets. Inside you will find a play area for kids, a small petting zoo and lovely water fountains. There is a walking and cycle track as well as plenty of shady spots to sit and read a book or spend in quiet reflection.
This huge expanse of greenery faces the Indian Ocean and was once a race track. The breezy environs of Galle Face are popular among locals and foreigners. There are food stalls as well as a few restaurants. The Port City now takes up most of the coastal area surrounding Galle Face but it remains a good spot to chill and enjoy views of the ocean.
Built under Chinese influence the Port City is the most recent addition to Colombo's range of attractions. Go there to experience the shops, restaurants and various other venues designed to help you relax and enjoy the lovely ocean front.
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